Take a Hike in the Highland Lakes of Burnet County
The weather outside is rarely frightful during the autumn and winter months in the Highland Lakes of Burnet County. With its five lakes and rolling hills, the county is rich in ways to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Hiking and biking the beautiful trails of the area’s parks and attractions is a memorable way to spend a family get-together. Here are some of the best hiking trails the county has to offer.
BALCONES CANYONLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
24518 RR 1431, Marble Falls
From sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, hikers have free access to the amazing Hill Country trails at Balcones Canyonlands. Trails include the Cactus Rocks Trail, Creek Trail, Indiangrass Trail, Ponds and Prairie Trails, and more. For detailed information on each of the 10 trails, visit the website. Includes maps and information on length and slope grades.
3630 Park Road 4, Hoover’s Valley
Geocache while hiking 9 miles of trails that weave through shady forests and granite outcroppings and, in places, follows the shoreline of Inks Lake. A family favorite is the 3.3-mile Pecan Flats Trail. You can find a printable brochure with a map of the trail here.
6211 Park Road 4 South, Burnet
Just a few miles along the same road, you’ll find Longhorn Cavern State Park, which is a great place to take the entire family to explore trails both above and below ground. The above-ground trails are short enough for a quick hike while waiting for a tour of the cavern. Trails are free; the cavern tours are available for a small fee.
640 CR 412, Spicewood
This Lower Colorado River Authority park has two great trails for quick, easy hikes. Overlook Trail covers less than a mile with views of a spectacular cove on Lake Travis. The Mustang Ridge trail is about 1.5 miles, stretching from the lake’s shoreline to the recreation area. Also, check out the Fox Run Trail, Cottontail Loop, and Chaparral Run.
706 CR 343A, Marble Falls
Also an LCRA park, the trails at Shaffer Bend are great for both hiking and horseback riding — bring your own horse. Reasonable entrance fees and spectacular overlooks along Lake Travis.
2820 CR 414, Spicewood
This is one of several LCRA parks on the Spicewood, or south side, of Lake Travis. Hiking access at all LCRA parks is from sunrise to sunset. Most have reasonable fees for the day, usually no more than $5 per adult. Ages 12 and under get in free.
For more information on hiking the Highland Lakes, check out the 101HighlandLakes.com Hiking Guide.
