Is the Slab Road crossing in Kingsland dangerous to drive?
The Slab is a legendary low-water crossing located in Llano County, in the U.S. state of Texas. Situated just outside of Kingsland, this section of Ranch Road 3404 is a popular summer destination that can turn deadly in a matter of minutes due to extreme flash flooding.
The crossing is famous for being a massive outcrop of pink granite where the Llano River flows directly over the road. While it is a beloved spot for locals to cool off during the hot Texas summer, it sits in the heart of "Flash Flood Alley," one of the areas with the highest density of severe and rapid flooding in the entire United States. Prevention is key here, as a large portion of the regional population lives in active flood zones.
| Road facts: The Slab (Kingsland) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kingsland, Llano County, Texas (USA) |
| Coordinates | 30°40'55.2"N 98°29'03.9"W |
| Affected Length | 0.2 miles (low-water section) |
| Surface | Paved (Causeway) |
| Hazard Level | Extreme (Subject to Flash Flooding) |
How challenging is the drive through the Slab Road?
The road through the crossing is totally paved, but its safety depends entirely on the river's water level. The most critical part of the drive is a 0.2-mile stretch where the asphalt sits just inches above the riverbed. During heavy storms, which are common in the Southern Coast region during hurricane and typhoon seasons, this section can be submerged by several feet of fast-moving water in a "flash flood" event. In the past, water levels have peaked as high as 41.5 feet above the normal flow, completely erasing the road from view.
What makes the Llano River crossing so treacherous?
The danger at the Slab lies in the speed of the water. Just as it happened during the catastrophic storms of July 2025, water levels can rise significantly in mere minutes. The granite "slab" provides very little traction once submerged, and the force of the Llano River can easily sweep a vehicle off the paved causeway into the deeper rapids downstream. Local authorities emphasize the life-saving rule: Turn Around, Don't Drown. If you see water covering the 0.2-mile crossing, do not attempt to drive through it, regardless of your vehicle's size.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez