Wild Basin Preserve: A Texas Hill Country Escape
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Located just off of 360 in the Texas Hill Country is Wild Basin Preserve, an oasis of nature founded over 45 years ago. Spanning 227 acres and winding through lush wooded valleys, Wild Basin provides visitors with 2.5 miles of trails to explore. Whether you’re looking for an exercise stroll or a secluded glimpse at nature, Wild Basin has something for everyone!
Getting Started: What You Need to Know
Wild Basin Preserve is open from sunrise to sunset and admission is free (though donations are encouraged). Pets and bikes are not allowed in the preserve, so be sure to leave them at home. Additionally, there is no drinking water available on-site, so it’s important to bring plenty of your own before embarking on your hike.
Trails and Highlights
The preserve offers 2.5 miles of scenic trails open from sunrise to sunset that winds through the typical Texas Hill Country terrain. As a courtesy for visitors, bicycles, pets, and any motorized vehicles are not allowed. Along the way, hikers can check out twenty natural highlights which are identified by trail guide markers all throughout the park.
The Easy Access Trail runs right from the parking lot and contains 20 natural highlights along the way, including lush foliage and unique rock formations. The Waterfall Trail is also available for those looking for a more strenuous journey; under one mile away from the parking lot lies a picturesque pond complete with a 15-foot waterfall that’s definitely worth the trek. And once you reach the top of the hills, be sure to check out the two scenic overlooks – they provide stunning views of the valley below with a hint of downtown in the distance.
The highlight of the preserve is the Waterfall Trail, less than a mile from the parking lot, this path leads to a secluded pond with a fifteen-foot waterfall flowing down its sides. Also located along the trails are two breathtaking overlooks that provide stunning views of a wooded valley with downtown Austin in the backdrop.
Though it’s important to note that Wild Basin isn’t necessarily ideal for creek exploration; much of the area near Bee Creek is roped off, and don’t plan on getting your feet wet here – swimsuits and frog-catching equipment are not necessary!
Group Tours and Events
Wild Basin Preserve also offers many organized activities throughout the year including full moon hikes, astronomy nights, and guided tour hikes. All activities are free, but donations of $3 per person are kindly requested. Check out their calendar for more details about upcoming events.
If you want to make a day of it, Wild Basin offers plenty of organized events such as full moon hikes and astronomy nights. They also offer guided tour hikes at various times throughout the year where certified naturalists share facts and tips about the local wildlife and plant life. For more information or to sign up for a tour, be sure to check out their calendar of upcoming events.
Important Notes
Though many people are looking for creek crawl hikes, it’s important to note that this preserve is not suited for that type of activity. Although some access to Bee Creek is available, most areas of the preserve remain roped off due to conservation efforts.
Visitors should also remember to bring plenty of water as no water is available on site. Other items such as cash donations, sunscreen and bug spray are also highly recommended!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a beautiful hike with wonderful views and interesting wildlife – Wild Basin Preserve is definitely the place to go! Whether you come alone or with family or friends, there’s something here for everyone. So plan your trip today and don’t miss out on all the fun!
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746
