This Rustic Patch of Wilderness Near Austin Has Over 40 Miles of Trails
By Elisa Regulski|Published May 20, 2018
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Elisa Regulski
Author
Elisa is a passionate travel writer with over five years of experience. After graduating with a B.F.A in acting from Oklahoma City University, Elisa earned a M.A in mass communication From Texas State University. When she's not writing about all of the amazing places throughout the U.S., she can be heard singing with her band.
Twelve thousand acres of untouched nature sit on the north side of San Antonio, and it’s time you took a trip out there. The rolling hillsides, vibrant wildflowers, and natural beauty will thoroughly enchant you. Discover ancient dinosaur tracks, camp under the stars, and stroll beneath shady trees. This rustic patch of wilderness near Austin has over 40 miles of trails.
Government Canyon State Natural Area shimmers with gorgeous views.
A quick 1.5 hour drive will lead you away from life's hectic schedules and crowded streets. At Government Canyon State Natural Area, nature reigns supreme. Bask in the tranquil atmosphere and let your imagination run free. This place will call you back again and again.
This pristine patch of nature protects the city's precious water source.
Government Canyon State Natural Area sits on the edge of the Balcones Escarpment and it shields the Edwards Aquifer's recharge zone. When it rains, the water flows to a special karst zone where it can be reabsorbed into the ground.
Several endangered species call Government Canyon home. Unique spiders find solace here as well as the rare Golden-cheeked warbler. This bird builds its nest in the Ashe-juniper trees before migrating back to Mexico in July.
There's so much to discover along these magnificent paths. In the Summer, rare birds flap their wings through the trees. Look out for the striking painted buntings and summer tanagers. You may also come across some white-tailed deer, javelinas, and cotton-tailed rabbits.
Mysterious dinosaur tracks can also be found at this wondrous area.
Along your hike, you may come across something mind-blowing. Over 110 million years ago, Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon dinosaurs roamed this area. Their tracks remain, and they've been astonishing visitors for decades.
Springtime is the perfect season to pitch a tent and soak up the surroundings. Government Canyon has 23 walk-in campsites that are open every Friday and Saturday.
Take a guided hike and learn even more about this breathtaking area.
Rangers love taking visitors on guided tours through the park. On these unique treks, you can learn all about the area's rare birds and fascinating landscape.
Government Canyon State Natural Area can be found at 12861 Galm Rd., San Antonio, TX 78254. It’s open from 7 am to 10 pm on Friday – Monday. Adult tickets cost $6, and children under 12 can enter for free. For more information, visit their website or Facebook page.
Have you visited Government Canyon yet? If you’re searching for more natural beauty, you’ll want to embark on these 8 amazing hiking trails in Austin.
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