Residents of Dripping Springs know that we’re fortunate to live in one of the most scenic areas of the Lone Star state. For outdoor enthusiasts, numerous state parks and preserves are open to the public, and the Texas Hill Country offers hundreds of miles of prime hiking trails.
Lace up your boots, grab your water bottle, and throw on some sunscreen, because here are 8 of the best hiking spots near Dripping Springs.
Dripping Springs Ranch Park: The most convenient park for residents on our list, this city park covers 130 acres and includes 6 miles of trails for visitors to enjoy. None of the trails are terribly strenuous, and it’s an excellent spot for birding enthusiasts as well as horseback riding. – 5 miles from downtown.
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center: This private reserve is open to the public, but you will need to make a reservation and pay a fee if you’d like to visit. Don’t let the $20 admission fee turn you off, though, the trails cover some of the most pristine areas in the Texas Hill Country, and visitors are rewarded with a stunning 40-foot waterfall that flows into an emerald pool. – 30 miles from Dripping Springs.
Pace Bend Park: Circling Lake Travis, this park spans 1,368 acres and 9 miles of hiking trails along the Lake Travis shoreline. In addition to hiking trails that take you through rugged limestone cliffs, the park also offers camping for visitors who wish to grab some rest sleeping under the stars after a long day of hiking. – 36 miles from Dripping Springs.
Charro Ranch Park: Another local park managed by the city of Dripping Springs, the 1-mile trail within the park is an easy hike but will take visitors through several different ecological areas. Also located within the park are the Solstice Circle and Walk of Peace, a specially designated area where visitors can take a few minutes to sit and reflect while surrounded by nature’s beauty. – 7 miles from downtown.
Barton Creek Greenbelt: Just minutes from downtown Austin, this slice of nature within an urban setting is a welcoming oasis and offers 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate. In addition to being popular for hiking, the park is also a favorite spot for mountain biking and rock climbing. – 20 miles from Dripping Springs.
Pedernales Falls State Park: Whether you’re looking for an easy hike that can be completed in less than an hour or you’re ready to gear up for a full-day 9-mile trek, you’ll find it at this state park. The park offers seven different trail systems with both scenic waterfalls and stunning overlooks. – 19 miles from Dripping Springs.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge: Located in Marble Falls, the wildlife refuge was established to protect the habitats of native birds but has become a popular hiking destination as well. The park offers five miles of hiking trails as well as an observation deck. Be sure to bring your binoculars in case you spot a golden-cheeked warbler or black-capped vireo. – 47 miles from Dripping Springs.
You really don’t have to venture far to find great hiking around Dripping Springs. Even within the Caliterra community, there’s a trail system that was specially designed to ensure residents could enjoy the surrounding area’s natural beauty.
To learn more about finding a home here, contact the Caliterra team today.
