ROUND MOUNTAIN GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Into Round Mountain’s Limestone Grotto: A Naturalist-Led Descent to a 40‑Foot Waterfall
A 1.5–2 hour, naturalist-guided, one-mile round‑trip hike that drops from arid savanna into a sheltered canyon and ends at a 40‑foot waterfall — reservations required and groups are limited to 25 guests.
Into Round Mountain’s Limestone Grotto: A Naturalist-Led Descent to a 40‑Foot Waterfall.
Guided by a knowledgeable naturalist, this 1.5–2 hour walk moves from open, arid savanna into a narrow limestone crevice and down into a sheltered canyon where a 40‑foot waterfall feeds a shaded grotto — a compact, dramatic piece of Round Mountain’s landscape that rewards steady footing and curiosity.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Savanna to Sheltered Canyon
The route begins across arid savanna and funnels into a limestone crevice before descending into a lush canyon pocket — a stark contrast of sunbaked uplands and sheltered, plant‑rich grotto.
A Steep, Step‑Built Descent
Visitors descend a substantial staircase into the canyon: the approach includes a long, built staircase and additional steps, rocks, and roots to navigate once on the canyon floor.
A 40‑Foot Waterfall and Grotto
At the head of the canyon a 40‑foot cliff pours into a grotto pool, the centerpiece of the Guided Canyon Tour and the reason most visitors make the one‑mile round trip.
What the day feels like
What the walk feels like
Expect a paced, interpretive hike led by a naturalist: across sunlit savanna, into a limestone slot, down a pronounced staircase and into a cool, plant‑filled canyon where the trail culminates at a 40‑foot waterfall. The program runs about 1.5–2 hours round trip and covers roughly one mile, with firm but uneven steps and trail surfaces throughout.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear closed‑toe shoes with ankle support (tennis or hiking shoes). Dress in layers in cool weather. Bring hat, sunglasses, camera, bug spray, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle (only water is allowed on the trail). Walking sticks are available to borrow; bottled water is available for purchase.
Tours run roughly 1.5–2 hours; reservations are required and reservation dates open the first week of the prior month.
Access to the canyon, cave, and grotto is permitted only with supervising staff. No pets, no swimming, no smoking, no biking, no drones, no collecting, no glass containers, and no off‑trail activities. Parking is limited and intended for registered guests only.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What do I bring and wear for the hike?
Dress comfortably in tennis or hiking shoes, preferably closed‑toe with ankle support. In cooler weather, dress in layers. Hats, sunglasses, camera, bug spray, and sunscreen are recommended. Walking sticks are available to borrow and while some water is provided, you should bring your own reusable bottle; only water is allowed on the trail.
How difficult is the hike?
The experience is a one‑mile, round‑trip, moderate to difficult hike from the parking lot that includes a long, uneven 125‑step staircase and additional steps, rocks, and roots once in the canyon.
Can I take a ride share to Westcave?
No. Do not take a ride share (e.g., Uber or Lyft) to Westcave — the preserve is outside service range for pickups and you may become stranded.
Are pets allowed?
No. Pets are not allowed on the preserve and may not be left in a vehicle; visitors found with pets will be asked to leave.
Can we swim at Westcave?
No. There is no swimming at Westcave and there is no access to the Pedernales River from the preserve.
Are restrooms available?
Yes. Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest use; cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place.
Is there a waitlist if tours are full?
There is no official waitlist. You can email [email protected] or call 830‑825‑3442 to check for last‑minute cancellations, but staff may be away from phones while on trails.