ROUND MOUNTAIN HIKING FIELD GUIDE
After-Dusk Descent to the Grotto: Westcave’s Night Hike on Round Mountain
A guided, 1‑mile night hike led by a Westcave naturalist that descends a roughly 100‑foot staircase into a sheltered canyon and reaches a 40‑foot waterfall — this guide lays out what to expect, what to bring, and the logistics.
After-Dusk Descent to the Grotto: Westcave’s Night Hike on Round Mountain.
Embark on a captivating night hike at Westcave Preserve: guided by a local naturalist you descend a roughly 100‑foot staircase into a lush, sheltered canyon to the Grotto, arriving at the head of the canyon where water drops along a 40‑foot cliff into the grotto pool below — all while experiencing the sounds and rhythms of the preserve after dark.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Steep Descent Into a Lush Canyon
The hike funnels visitors down a long staircase into a sheltered canyon of thick plant life; the route is intimate and rooted in the canyon slope, offering a concentrated natural setting as you move toward the Grotto.
A 40‑Foot Waterfall at the Canyon Head
At the head of the canyon the trail reaches a dramatic 40‑foot waterfall that replenishes the grotto pool below — the focal point of the hike and the destination as night falls.
A Naturalist‑Led Walk to Hear the Night
Designed to reveal what goes on after dark, the Night Hike is guided by a local naturalist who highlights the nocturnal sounds and resident animals that make Westcave their home.
What the day feels like
What the Night Feels Like
The outing is compact and focused: a roughly one‑mile round trip that takes about 1.5–2 hours. You'll hike in at sunset, descend the canyon by a long staircase into a sheltered corridor of vegetation, arrive at the Grotto and 40‑foot waterfall as darkness settles, then return the same way — an experience built around listening, low light, and close canyon scenery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this Night Hike suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The program runs about 1.5–2 hours (standard listing: 2 hours). Dates are offered periodically; check operator listings for specific event dates.
Wear closed‑toe tennis or hiking shoes with ankle support; dress in layers in cooler weather. Bring a reusable water bottle (water is available but only water is allowed on the trail). Hats, sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended. Walking sticks are available to borrow.
Preserve rules prohibit swimming, smoking, biking, drones, pets, collecting, glass containers, geocaching and off‑trail activity. Parking is for registered Westcave guests only — do not attempt Hamilton Pool/River access parking. Only water is allowed on the trail; picnic tables are available near the visitor center but no food is allowed on trails.
Meet at Westcave Preserve — 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd., Round Mountain, TX 78663. Confirm arrival details with the operator ahead of time.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the difference between Night Hike and Guided Canyon Tour?
Both visits go down to the waterfall and cave area, but the Night Hike is designed to let visitors experience the sounds of the canyon and Grotto at night; the Guided Canyon Tour focuses on a broader interpretive narrative of the preserve’s natural, cultural and geologic history.
What should I bring and wear for the hike?
Dress comfortably in tennis or hiking shoes—preferably closed‑toe with ankle support—and in layers for cool weather. Bring water (reusable bottle recommended); hats, sunglasses, bug spray and sunscreen are suggested. Walking sticks are available to borrow. Only water is allowed on the trail; bottled water is sold on site.
Are there restrictions or rules I need to know?
Yes. The preserve forbids swimming, smoking, biking, flying drones, pets, collecting, glass containers, geocaching and off‑trail activity. Parking is reserved for registered Westcave guests only; please stay on trails.
How difficult is the hike?
The outing is a one‑mile roundtrip rated moderate to difficult. Visitors hike in and out of the canyon via a long, uneven staircase (described as roughly 100 feet or about 125 steps) and then navigate additional steps, rocks and roots on the canyon floor.
Can I take a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to Westcave?
No. Do not take a rideshare: Westcave is outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded.
Are pets allowed?
No. Pets are not allowed on the preserve at any time, even on leash, and may not be left in vehicles; guests 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.