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TX Elite Rally Fall Color Run To The Lodge 2024: A Weekend of Scenic Roads, Stunning Views, and Unforgettable Memories

The 2024 TX Elite Rally Fall Color Run was a weekend to remember—packed with adventure, scenic drives, breathtaking views, and a community of car enthusiasts who share a passion for the open road. Starting on Friday morning and winding its way through the beautiful Arkansas and Oklahoma landscapes, the rally provided an experience that participants will be talking about for years to come.Here’s a recap of the incredible journey that brought together friends, old and new, for a celebration of camaraderie, cars, and the thrill of the drive.

Friday Morning: A Fun Start at Mad Hatters Pub

The rally kicked off early on Friday morning at Mad Hatters Pub in the heart of the city. Participants arrived to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and hot breakfast, all while meeting new faces and reconnecting with familiar ones. After fueling up, it was time to grab rally stickers, goodie bags, and set up radios for the road ahead.

Costume Day was in full swing, with rally-goers encouraged to get creative and show up in their best (and most outlandish) outfits. The spirit of fun was evident as everyone gathered for the driver’s meeting, which set the tone for the weekend’s adventures. To add an extra element of excitement, a scavenger hunt was organized to spice up the journey to our lunch stop.

Scavenger Hunt & Costume Contest

The rally route took participants on a scenic drive through charming towns, and the scavenger hunt kept things competitive and entertaining. Along the way, participants were challenged to find specific landmarks and items. The first stop, at the liquor store to grab some beverages for the nights to come, gave everyone the chance to relax, refuel, and compare notes on their scavenger hunt successes (or challenges).

And just as things were heating up, we were treated to a police escort through town! The local officers helped us navigate the streets and even blocked off parking spots for the rally cars, allowing participants to park together in a stunning display of automotive beauty.

Once we arrived at High Street Pizza for lunch, the costume contest kicked off. The staff at High Street had the tough job of judging the costumes—everything from video game themes to quirky and creative ensembles. There were some seriously impressive outfits, but in the end, it was the enthusiasm and originality that made each entry unique.

The Drive to Mount Magazine Lodge: Stunning Views and Friendly Faces

After lunch, we hit the road again, heading toward Mount Magazine Lodge in Arkansas. The route offered some jaw-dropping views of the Arkansas hills and valleys. Along the way, participants stopped to snap pictures of the picturesque landscapes and take in the beauty of the fall foliage.

We also made a quick gas stop, where we were treated to a humorous and somewhat unexpected sight: a group of police officers pulled up to admire our cars! The cars, after all, were no ordinary collection—they were older classics, modern exotics, and everything in between. The camaraderie among the rally participants was contagious, and it was clear that everyone was having a blast.

Relaxing Evening at the Lodge

Once we reached Mount Magazine Lodge, the stunning views continued to impress. With rooms overlooking the expansive valleys, it felt like a true retreat. After settling in, many of the rally participants gathered at the Rally Team Cabin to relax, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Some spent the evening chatting, while others enjoyed the lodge’s amenities, including the cozy atmosphere of the on-site restaurant and bar.

Saturday: Twisty Roads, Scenic Views, and a Delicious Lunch

Saturday dawned clear and crisp, and after a hearty breakfast, it was time to hit the road again. The day’s drive would take us through the twisting mountain roads of the Ozarks, offering exhilarating challenges for both drivers and passengers. Each turn revealed another stunning vista, from sweeping ridgelines to peaceful valleys dotted with brilliant fall colors.

The rally’s lunch stop was at the famous Ozark Café, known for its delicious comfort food and historic charm. We gathered around tables to share great food and talk about the morning’s drive, trading stories of the roads we’d conquered and the views we’d admired.

Picture-Perfect Stops & Closing Night Celebration

After lunch, we headed to a breathtaking lookout point, where participants snapped photos to capture the essence of the weekend. From the panoramic views to the colorful leaves in full display, it was a moment to savor. Some drivers pushed their cars to the limit on the mountain roads, while others took it easy and enjoyed the scenery—there was something for everyone.

Back at the lodge, the evening’s closing festivities began. The private dining room hosted a catered dinner, where we gathered to relax and reflect on the amazing weekend we’d just experienced. The rally team took time to recognize outstanding drivers and participants, handing out awards to those who had earned them, whether for driving skill, creativity in the costume contest, or simply embodying the spirit of the rally.

The final toast of the night was to all the sponsors who made the rally possible. From local businesses to national brands, their support helped ensure this event was a success. Many participants returned to the Rally Team Cabin for a final round of drinks, stories, and laughs before heading to their rooms to rest for the next day.

Sunday: Optional Twisties & the Road Home

Sunday was a more relaxed affair. Participants had the option to head home at their own pace or keep the rally going. For those who wanted to extend the adventure, a twisty route back to Dallas was offered, with a delicious lunch stop at Mountain Fork Brewery, where everyone could reflect on the weekend’s highlights.

By the time the rally officially ended, it was clear that the bonds formed over these three days were strong—and lasting. Many new friendships had been forged, and the shared experiences on the road left everyone with fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion: A Weekend to Remember

The TX Elite Rally Fall Color Run 2024 was not just about the cars—it was about the people, the adventure, and the thrill of driving through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. With amazing routes, stunning scenery, fun activities, and wonderful company, it was a perfect example of why the rally community is so special.

We can’t wait to see you all the 11th, 12th, and 13th of April 2025 for the Twisted Spring Fling—one of next year’s rallies. Until then, keep those engines roaring, friendships growing, and the adventures rolling!