AUSTIN GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Second Saturday Guided Hike: Into Wild Basin’s Balcones Canyonlands
Monthly guided hikes at Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve introduce participants to native Texas Hill Country, Wild Basin history and the site’s connection to the Balcones Canyonlands; hikes begin on the deck of the Wild Basin Creative Research Center.
Second Saturday Guided Hike: Into Wild Basin’s Balcones Canyonlands.
Wild Basin’s Second Saturday guided hikes are an interpreter-led introduction to the native Texas Hill Country and the preserve’s place in the Balcones Canyonlands. Led by seasoned trail guides and naturalists, the walks start on the deck of the Wild Basin Creative Research Center and traverse portions of the preserve’s nearly three miles of trail through its 227 acres of protected habitat.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Protected Hill Country Habitat
Wild Basin safeguards 227 acres of Texas Hill Country and offers almost three miles of trails, giving hikers a compact, varied sample of Balcones Canyonlands terrain and native plant communities.
Seasoned Trail Guides and Naturalists
Second Saturday hikes are led by experienced trail guides and naturalists who focus on Wild Basin’s history and its ecological connection to the wider Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.
Small Groups and Simple Logistics
Participation is limited to a maximum of 15 people; a paid reservation is required and includes a vehicle parking pass—details that keep group sizes manageable and the experience focused.
What the day feels like
What the Hike Feels Like
The hike moves from an orientation on the Creative Research Center deck into the preserve’s uneven Hill Country trails, where naturalists point out native plants, local history and the ecological links to the Balcones Canyonlands. The rhythm is interpretive and educational rather than athletic: expect stops for observation and explanation along short stretches of rugged trail.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this guided hike suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Meet at 805 North Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78746. Check-in is required within 15 minutes of the event start time.
Wear closed-toe shoes, dress for the weather, and carry drinking water—there is no potable water supply on site. Bring a digital Wild Basin Trail Map.
A paid reservation is required. Reservation fees are $12.00 for adults, $10.00 for children ages 5–17, and free for children 0–4; the fee includes a vehicle parking pass.
The preserve prohibits pets, bikes, picnics, smoking/fire, weapons and collecting. Evaporative toilets are available at the parking lot restrooms and the Visitor Gallery may be open on Second Saturday depending on volunteer availability.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How do I reserve a spot?
Choose a date on the calendar to reserve your spot(s) online or call the reservations line; same-day reservations are not available by phone.
What are the reservation fees?
Adults: $12.00; children ages 5–17: $10.00; children 0–4: free. The reservation fee includes a vehicle parking pass to access the property.
Is the Second Saturday hike held every month?
The event will not occur in April due to a scheduling conflict and does not occur in August because of summer heat.
Are pets or bikes allowed on the hike?
No. Wild Basin is a nature preserve: pets, bikes, picnics, smoking/fire, weapons, and collecting are all prohibited.
What should I bring for the hike?
Wear closed-toe shoes, dress comfortably for the weather, and bring drinking water to carry with you—the preserve has no potable water supply.
How many people are allowed and what is the check-in policy?
Space is limited to a maximum of 15 people and a paid reservation is required. Check-in is required within 15 minutes of the event start time.
Who can I contact with questions or for financial assistance?
Inquiries can be emailed to [email protected] or by calling 512-327-7622. For weekend financial assistance, submit a fee waiver request through the preserve’s form.