Hill Country Hiking

Our adventure today was a trip to the Texas Hill Country State Natural Area. It's an hour's drive north of here mostly along a narrow county road and then unpaved park roads, but there was little traffic, so the drive was relatively easy. The natural area serves horseback riders, mountain bikers, and hikers. It is minimally developed as required by the terms of the original land donation.

When we arrived, we checked in at headquarters and showed our Texas Parks Pass for entry. We got a map and some advice on hikes to take and started off on Trail 5, continuing on 5a and 5b, to a wonderful overlook of the surrounding terrain. Much of the trail is eroded limestone, so you have to watch your step. The final approach to the peak was a bit steep and rugged, so we were glad to have our hiking sticks. A loop at the top allows views of the hill country in various directions.

When we returned to the truck it was lunchtime. We ate our picnic lunch on a table near the headquarters and near a horse washing station, which is closed because of the drought. The only potable water in the park is at the headquarters, which is also where the only flush toilet is located. We went into the headquarters to check on the weather forecast. One of the staff mentioned that they had seen a painted bunting behind the headquarters building. We looked but didn't spot that bird.

We actually heard lots of birds singing and calling in the park, but most of them stayed hidden. The ones that flashed by declined to stay long enough for their portraits to be made. We did get a brief glimpse of a wild turkey as it ran into some brush ahead of us, and Ken saw a white tailed deer.

After lunch we set out again, this time along a creek trail to Comanche Bluffs Overlook. West Verde Creek is described as "intermittent." Right now it's a series of small stagnant pools, but sometimes there's enough water to fish and swim. We did hear some frogs croaking. All along the trails we saw a rich variety of wildflowers, many of them yellow or white or various shades of purple and violet.

As we drove west out of the park, we saw the most unusual animals sighted on this trip, a family of feral pigs. One was spotted and had extraordinary large fuzzy ears. Texas is evidently infested with the hogs, which cause significant damage and are very prolific.

We stopped at HEB on the way home to pick up some supplies. Fortunately we had dinner all prepared, salads made and pasta casserole ready to reheat, so all I had to do was steam some broccoli and slice some bread. Overall it was a rewarding, but tiring day.