Wild Basin Writing Workshop -- A Hidden Gem! A friend told me about a writing workshop happening at Wild Basin, so I decided to check it out -- and I'm so glad I did! Wild Basin offers an Artist in Residence program featuring creatives in photography, writing, pottery, and more. From what I learned, residents spend about three months sharing their craft by offering a few workshops, and at the end, there's a celebration showcasing their work. One special piece even becomes part of Wild Basin's permanent collection -- how cool is that? Our workshop was led by Sarah Cypher, and it was absolutely lovely. We sat in a circle on the deck on a perfect, "almost-fall" morning. Most attendees seemed to already have their own writing practice, but Sarah made everyone feel welcome and at ease. She's a wonderful facilitator and presenter. We read a few poems, discussed what resonated with us, and then took some time to wander the trails for reflection and writing. It's been years since I've been in that kind of creative space (probably since college!), and it felt so refreshing to tap into that part of myself again. As a teacher, I spend my days helping kids become writers -- but this time, I got to write just for me. My favorite part? Honestly -- all of it. Huge thanks to Sarah, Paul, Wild Basin, and my friend Laura for sharing this experience with me. Funny enough, I drive past here all the time but had never stopped in -- that won't be the case anymore! read more

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Wild Basin is Austin's first wildlife preserve and it was established in 1976. It is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve system and co-managed by the City of Austin and St. Edward's University. While it is only about 270 acres it is packed with all kinds of features to satisfy any Texas outdoor enthusiast. Today (August 7) I attended the First Friday Walk and Talk led by their research director, Dr. Gabriella Pardee. While August can be brutally hot here in Austin, the walk started early enough to avoid the blazing sun plus the lower trails were mostly shaded. Inside the research center Gabby talked about the history of the preserve, how it is managed and some of the programs offered to the public as well as students at St. Edward's. Then we hit the trails which are well-maintained and have signage so you can easily find your way. During the hike, many topics were touched on like bumble identification, the diversity of animals/birds and stream ecology. Bee Creek runs through the preserve. I highly recommend signing up for one of these "First Friday" of the month hikes led by Wild Basin staff. You will learn a lot. Diving deeper into the natural history of this preserve builds a feeling of community and connection to the wildness so close at hand. read more

Wild Basin Creative Research Center - Bee Creek - Hiking Near Me - Austin, Texas

Wonderful experience hiking. This was my first time hiking, and I was able to borrow a walking stick from the research center. It helped very much. I was very impressed with the views along my walk. The people working there are great. read more

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Today, I came here with Thing One for a Conservation Project. Those interested in participating in conservation efforts may do so at: https://services.austintexas.gov/water/wildland_vol/index.cfm If you are local to ATX, to get here (for the purpose of volunteering), you must take the entrance to the preserve is a mile north of Bee Caves Road along the east side of Loop 360. During the conservation project, volunteers watered plants, layed down mulch, picked weeds, and performed various other tasks. Clear instructions were provided to all volunteers regarding proper care for the property. Volunteers also learned the Wild Basin is co-owned and co-managed by Travis County and St. Edward's University, and is a treasured resource for our entire community. Further, Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve protects 227 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country native habitat. The preserve hosts multiple rare and vulnerable species, including the endangered Golden-cheeked warbler. It is also home to St. Edward's Wild Basin Creative Research Center, a field research station located just 10 miles from campus. Volunteers are also afford the opportunity to walk along the trail to listen to the sounds of nature and enjoy this hidden oasis. On the trail, those who visit will experience waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and wildlife sightings to include rare birds. Wild Basin is very accessible and the trails are all well-marked. This is one of the BEST kept secrets in Central TX... shhhhh.. don't tell anyone else! #bewellcentraltx read more

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This Southwest preserve is so beautiful with great shaded trails, beautiful views , restrooms, and I'm not sure about water. We always make sure to carry water with us. It is still possible to hike in the middle of the afternoon in the summer, and not feel like passing out. Yes it's still a little hot, but it's shaded almost everywhere. There are several educational areas to read about the natural wildlife, and it's informative. During the week it's never too busy, so parking is not a big issue, plus it's free. Of course you can make a donation, nonetheless it's not required. I feel extremely grateful for this gem! read more

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This park isn't listed on many travel blogs, and now I know why. Despite it being so protected I've seen more wildlife at the RV park I'm staying at. Additionally, the trails leading to the more photographic spots such as the waterfall and the creek become rocky with a steep grade, so are not easily accessible. I'm recovering from a torn meniscus, but due to a car accident my knees aren't great at the best of times, so I'm not sure I could ever reach the end of those trails. I made it to within .3 miles of the waterfall and had to turn back. Very frustrating. And since the main trail has a small wooden bridge at one point and a wooden railing at another, I don't understand why they couldn't do something to make the other trails easier to navigate. There are much better places in Austin to spend your time. The only positive thing I can say is the restroom, despite having a porta potty style toilet was clean and didn't smell. read more

This park offers an easy stroll. It's not a lot of distance (maybe two miles), but it's very clean. Open 7 days a week from sunup to sundown. A huge plus is they don't close after a rain. Most of it is on rock/gravel, no mud, and not very treacherous. Very limited parking and lots of potholes on the gravel road leading to the parking lot. Trails range from easy to moderate. It's a two mile loop with a few small crossover trails you can take. Good for trail runners, and there are a couple of scenic overlooks, but it's not too exciting for slow paced hikers like myself. It's easy to find, there's a porta potty at the beginning of the trail, and water is available here. No bikes, dogs, or smoking allowed on this trail - hip, hip hooray! There's a decent water fall on one of the trails, but you're gonna have to find that yourself! read more

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This is a shorter hike trail that I am used to but no worries there. The trail did provide some slightly challenging areas as there are stone steps you have to climb up. Most of the trail is in the shade and you have to cross a few streams. Overall a fun short hike that takes less than an hour to complete. Be sure to wear your SPF and bug spray if you get bit up. read more

Wild Basin Creative Research Center - Hiking Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Wild Basin Preserve is as gorgeous as ever. And on a cool winter's day, there is no better way to beat the post-holiday blahs than to surround yourself with nature. There is something very peaceful about walking in and among the trees, listening to the wind and, when you're near the stream and waterfall, the gentle trickle of water. At the end of the hike, I feel tired but also calm and refreshed. If you're looking for a place to hike in Austin, give this place a try! read more

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Very beautiful views and environment!! There are numerous hiking loops although they are all quite short. If you want a longer hike, do all the loops! The waterfall is particularly beautiful after a rain. read more

Wild Basin Creative Research Center - The waterfall after a rain. - Hiking Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I reallY love it here! It's very peaceful and quiet, yet so close to the city. The hike is great, lots of steps! Easy trail and a beautiful overlook. Usually see a few people but it is by no means crowded. Options for longer and short walks too!! read more

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For its research and ecological preservation I think this is one of the few places in the Austin area being taken care of among the influx of visitors the city tends to get. The hike is mild and would say a beginner to moderate level when hiking back up to the trailhead. Loop is only a mile and a half which is a quick in and out hike if you're short on time. Sweeping views of the basin with multiple overlook points. The terrain is rocky but my bf did this in flip flops so to each their own. Loved the visitor center they have free stickers. read more

Fun and easy hike. Pretty place. There's NO dogs allowed, so FYI. I had no idea. Thankfully my friend told me the day before. This trail is about 2.5 miles. Most of it is shade. Maybe a quarter or a third of the time there wasn't any shade. Still, you're in Texas, so consider sunscreen. Overall, this is a relatively easy hike. I saw some families with little kids along the way. I would go back here. But it's at the bottom of the list only because I can't bring my dog :) read more

Wild Basin Creative Research Center - Hiking Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Don't bother trying to come here if you have a service dog. They will ask invasive questions and pressure you to leave. The security guard should be better trained. read more

We had a great time hiking around the main outer loop at Wild Basin over the weekend, and it was a nice mixture of gravel trails and some lightly rocky terrain with well marked pathways and a moderate elevation change with some rock steps. There are some pretty overlooks in the hill country, and a decent sized waterfall that was flowing really nicely from recent rains. The trails soon after opening in the mornings were not crowded at all and it was probably 30 minutes before we came across anybody else. It's not far enough away from 360 to completely be out of earshot from the sound of distant traffic which unfortunately reminds you that you're not as far out as it otherwise looks. There were a few plaques along the way that have some facts about the area and local wildlife as well. With a couple stops for pictures and listening to the waterfall, we spent just over an hour walking at a pretty leisurely pace heading around the perimeter, so it can be a pretty quick hike, but made longer if going on some of the inner loops. Worth checking out and right inside of Austin. read more

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Went there many times. But recently got flat tires twice, both for the front right tire, both on Friday afternoon after 3PM. Felt like not being welcomed at the particular time. read more

Wild Basin is a nice 3 mile hike not too challenging except for the last 3rd to get out of the valley. Wild Basin hosts a variety of family friendly events - see Edison's excellent review.... I can not add anything that has has not already been said in previous reviews so I added some pictures. Leave pets and food at home to protect the flora and fauna. read more

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They are never open, we've tried to go at least 5 times now and for whatever reason, always a different reason, they are closed. Also they don't allow dogs. read more

Beautiful, well-maintained trail right off 360! I must've driven past this trail hundreds of times before finally deciding to check it out, but I was glad I did. Not too crowded on a warm Saturday right after Thanksgiving, which was great. My three-and-a-half-year-old was able to complete the entire hike on foot, even the moderate elevation portions. The highlight of the hike was the waterfall at the end, but we also enjoyed the easy creek crossings along the way. Best of all? No dogs allowed so no dog poop. Trail is free, but a donation box can be found along the trail. read more

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This is one of my favorite hiking trails in the area. Its always quiet, its a 2 mile loop but you can make it as long or as short as you want because there are several trails (possum, Yaupon, Laurel trails) with cut throughs. Good elevation gain...you can use this as a lunchtime hike, or keep circling the basin in different ways to extend it. Its very scenic as well, and its location is great. There is a really friendly guard when you come in that will ask you if it's your first time here, and if it is, he is really helpful. read more

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Took on the preserve with my 1.5 old baby. This is not a stroller trail so I would utilize the hiking backpack or a carrier of the sort. Some of the trails are good for an offroad stroller, but not all. GRAB A MAP from the little house at the start. Or take a picture of the map. You look at the map and think "oh easy peasy!", but the trails kind of wind around themselves and you will randomly stumble upon signs pointing you in directions of different trails but you are unsure where the lead. So map it! Go after lots of rain so the waterfall is flowing nice. That will make the trip for you. 50/50 on sun and shade as far as the trail goes. There are some parts with some pretty decent steps/inclines so you will get a pretty good little work out in, but its fun! Not too bad! The house at the start of the trail has some cute things inside to check out and restrooms. And A/C! We love A/C and restrooms! Good little morning hike with some very pretty views. read more

This is such a gem in Austin. Plenty of walking and hiking trails. We visited a few trails during our time here, one included a small waterfall. The area is rich with plants, trees, and flowers. Super green and beautiful. If I lived in Austin, I would be here all the time to walk, meditate or journal. Donations are welcome, and I highly recommend contributing to them! read more

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I've been coming here with my husband off and on for the last 7-8 years. We usually get up early on a Saturday morning or if we can, during the week. There's rarely anyone there at sunrise. Lots of overlooks to see the sun come up. I don't have a good sense of direction, but don't get lost. If you google a map of the basin you'll find a pdf you can download (haven't used yet). It can get a little tiring, it's not all flat when you go the right trails but it's not over exhausting. If you're looking for a challenge then this isn't it. People seem to forget that this is a preserve where they allow nature to run its course with little help. It's going to be muddy after floods and the waterfall is going to be dried up with no recent rains. I like that there are no dogs allowed, people don't seem to know how or care to clean up after their dogs at other parks and I'd rather not have dogs running around as the trails aren't typically large enough for dogs to run around or maneuver through with other people around. It's also pretty quiet, save for the occasional highway sounds when you're close enough to it. read more

My favorite hiking spot in Austin. Pro -Gorgeous view of West Austin, the hills, the Lake -Beautiful, serene trail -The waterfall is relaxing. It only happens when it rains. Love this place. read more

My girlfriend and I came here for a date and everything was beautiful! The waterfall and the overlook were all great. It wasn't too tough or easy of a trail and you can choose which ever ones you want to go down. The water in the creek was so clear and didn't look polluted like most you'd see elsewhere.It's definitely a spot I'd come back to and hike again. read more

Wild Basin Creative Research Center - Waterfall - Hiking Near Me - Austin, Texas

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There is just something about the quietness and stillness found in nature, that when found, will always get 5 stars from me. Mother nature is always as good as it gets in my opinion. This place is a nice, beautiful walk that at point I thought I was lost, but all you have to do is pay attention to the signs and you'll figure where you are. Also, the fact that is a huge big circle helps. Just keep walking forward! The location of the waterfall is gorgeous and there are different spots to see it in different ways. There is no entry fee to this park although there is a box for donations. Definitely go check it out if you are near. read more

There's nothing too wild about Wild Basin. What you'll find here is a few--not more--miles of gentle hiking on pleasant hills, within shouting distance of 360. You'll find a quaint waterfall fed by a babbling brook, quaint shrubs that you should not put in your pocket and sell on eBay, and quaint hikers who say 'hi' and don't murder you. You'll not find Grizzly Adams riding his Grizzly to a craggy, frozen, windswept peak. If you were looking for that, you came to the wrong damn basin. read more

E's HIDDEN AUSTIN! ALERT - Yep, a place that not many people seem to go, even though Wild Basin has been hosting "Haunted Trails" around Halloween in this place for years. I'm probably a dummy for talking about it here, but people ask me sometimes where to go hiking that isn't too far away, and I tell them "this is the place". Usuallly they scratch their heads and go "Hm, where the hell is that?" or "Not Enchanted Rock?" (uh, why did you ask me, then, buddy). Wild River is indeed like Tracey said. Quiet, serene, and isolated - yet only 2 minutes from Bee Cave Road! If you go during unpopular times, it is certainly empty. It is not quite so far away from civilization though that, even during non-peak hours, you won't sometimes hear a faraway car, or people living somewhere nearby, in spots. This does not mean you ought not bring your cellphone. If you wipe out down there during a non-peak time, and are in a bind, even yelling your head off I reckon there's a chance nobody will hear you unless you got some belting power in your gut. Now I'm not saying this is as bad as the signs I remember reading countless times on ski lifts in the northeast - "THE MOUNTAINS WILL BE JUST AS COLD AND LONELY AS THEY WERE 200 YEARS AGO. DO NOT SKI ALONE." I mean, come on, it's Austin. It's generally warm. And - it's only 3 miles of trails. But still, you know, be cautious people. What I like best about Wild Basin is that not only is it less frequented than other hikey places around town, but the tree cover is just enough so that if it is blasting hot outside, you will still generally be shielded from the sun, even in the summer. And due to the rocky terrain where it lies, the bug count even with full bloom going on there is way less than a lot of other areas. Other things of note: When there's been some rain in Austin, there's a cool little waterfall that will actually have water falling! you can hang out at. (I believe the full name of the place is Wild RIVER Basin, but the river portion is pretty small, and if it's wild they must be joking). No pets. The gravel rock driveway is pretty short. Just drive slow, you'll be fine. The entry fee is pretty much donations on the honor system. They have a little nature preserve HQ building that I think sells bottled water and will do little nature hikes, wherein they tell you what kind of stuff grows and lives in the basin. There's maps of the place near the entry to the trails, but if you go out there a few times, you won' t need one. As they recommend, lock all things of note in your trunk when you go... the parking area is not monitored. read more

Me and my friend went to the Wild Basin yesterday and it was intense. First off it was getting to be 95 degrees out but we had our water and our sunscreen along with our hats. We also was lost because we didn't bring our maps. We eventually found our way back otherwise it would be the Donner Party minus the snow. It's a beautiful hike with a creek and waterfall. You also get a nice view of the basin. There is plenty of shade but wear sunscreen. And don't worry, there's no bears (Yogi Bear or otherwise) and mountain lions on this trail... read more

Wild Basin is pretty much the greenbelt for people who want to go on trails but don't want dogs, swimming, drinking, bikes, etc. The trails are pretty short, but include a cool waterfall, nice view of Austin, and a creek. The trails are clearly marked, but there aren't any maps inside. I took a picture of the map at the front with my phone and used that to navigate. You're not going to get lost, but it's nice to know the fastest path out if you are getting tired. read more

Holy moly at the trails! And trails. And more trails. I love how Wild Basin has a network of trails instead of just a loop or a path. The view from atop the hill is pretty sweet, too. There's an awesome waterfall and creek a bit of the way in, too. It's a lovely bunch of trails, and for a bit of a couch potato like me, a dang fine workout. They don't allow pets, but eh--I'm a bit timid around other peoples' animals, anyway, so perhaps this is a good thing. read more

I love this place. As someone who needs consistent contact with nature, I was so happy to find Wild Basin shortly upon moving to Austin from Colorado. It's close to town, yet once you hike in (and away from 360), you feel far away. This probably isn't the place to go if you are looking for a longer hike, but with all the trails you can make whatever kind of loop(s) you want. Thank you to the "Now or Never" women's environmental group for having the foresight to preserve this land in the 1970's! There are no fees, but they have a donation box. read more

Beautiful trails! The small hike starts off easy enough with some gorgeous views of the surrounding Balcones. If you have sensitive skin to pollens like me, be sure to take an allergy pill and layer on the bug spray. The trails are well marked with signs pointing you in the various directions. The best part about all the forks is that you could tell mostly what the terrain would look like on both sides. Many of the smaller trails that cut through the preserve are pretty flat. If you decide to walk the big loop from the trailhead to the waterfall, the elevation changes a lot. You'll be walking over a ton of rocks and roots, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. The waterfall was small, but it dropped into a calm little pool that was actually very beautiful. There are park benches all over the trails, and a few "lookout" spots to stop and take a rest if you need. Taking my time, and not being the panicle of health and athleticism, it took me about 90 minutes to walk the all trails. Definitely a great hike and beautiful scenery! Good for beginners! read more

One of the best things about Austin is the abundance of green spaces and hiking trails. I love that a 10-minute drive (less if I'm going to the greenbelt) can make me feel like I'm a million miles away from the city. I tried out Wild Basin based on the Yelp reviews and it is truly a find. We passed a handful of other hikers but mostly had the place to ourselves. This may change in the nicer weather months, but for now it's great. And there's a waterfall! The best thing: NO BIKES. Whenever I'm at the greenbelt there are always Lance Armstrong-wannabes who will run you down if you don't dive out of their way. This is a very peaceful place and I highly recommend it. read more

Wonderful visit and plan to return soon! Lots of shade and a large assortment of native Austin plants and trees.

Pros: its a nice peaceful moderately easy walk. Cons: Lots of alarming signs about car theft at the start of trails. Pros: There is a guestbook too sign after about a minute into the walk.(for forest fire safety) Cons: You fill out what time you set off on your walk in the guestbook giving the car thieves head start to how long you been gone from your now exposed to vulcers vehicle. Pros:No dogs allowed Cons: No dogs allowed. It is a really pretty walk with many different trails to choose from and it is marked out with signs really well so you wont get lost.However not many people go here (maybe cause of no dogs policy)but its worth a trip.I was here with the Old ball and chain and we enjoyed it.I love my wife cause she likes too go on walks with me,and she is amazing I leave her go ahead so i can stare at her ass in those hot pants ohhhh yeah. Final CON: Passed 2 individual people on the walk and although they were out walking in the back of my head I suspected them as car thieves,because of all the sign posts saying bring all valuable with you.I mean what does a car thief look like these day. Pro: Really enjoyable place,ill defineatly go back read more

I love these trails. It is usually very quiet with not a lot of people. There are several trails to choose from, all of which have different difficulty levels. Youpon trail has some pretty good elevation for someone who is trying to get back into shape (like me!) with many log and rock steps to make it to the trail at the top. The waterfall is beautiful as is the rest of the scenery. Lots of variety as far as flat path, to rocky, etc. I live close and this trail has proved to be a go-to choice for me as I continue on my weight loss journey. When I'd like to continue for over 2 miles, this is a trail I have been able to loop through a second time without getting bored of the scenery. Also it is a no dog trail (LOVE dogs but it's nice not having to dodge them or left behind poop bags). read more

The Best & Kids friendly trail! I took my toddler to hike over there ever since she was 1.5 years old. Very clean, shaded most of the area, no bugs, I couldn't think of any other places can beat this. We hike there every week this summer. HIGHLY recommended! read more

Not the most amazing place but something we need more of. Privately put aside land, saving it from office and home and apartment developing and all that other garbage. A couple of trails that mostly interconnect, some shaded, some not. You can make it as difficult as you want depending on your pack and your pace. The donation box and office building was confusing to me, but we just dropped some money in and walked. The signs warning you about theft are pretty concerning. read more

I'm always looking for a great hike in Austin. I visited about 5 years ago and totally forgot how great this place is. I brought the wife and kids and it was the perfect outdoor excursion for a family with littles. My 3 year old and 7 year old hiked the entire look (almost). The 3 year old is a little slow and we were hungry... so I put her on my shoulder for the final stretch. Being that there are no bikers and no dogs, it makes it the perfect hike for the little kids. Yes, my kids don't know their right from their left, so they're almost always getting run over from bikers on the busier trails. There's some beautiful scenery from a few spots at the start, but most of the trail is a peaceful journey through the woods, several creek crossing and a little grotto with a waterfall. It's short, there's some decent elevation change and it makes for a great hike just about year round! read more