One Hidden Texas Gem Offers A Scenic Nature Excursion With Hiking Trails And A Lush Grotto

When it comes to stunning natural attractions, it should come as no surprise that Texas seems to have it all. It's the second-biggest state in the U.S., boasting 367-miles of coastline, along with deep woods, open rangeland, rugged mouintains, and vast swaths of desert. From a massive national forest with endless outdoor activities to its very own "Swiss Alps" best seen on this unbelievably scenic road trip, the Lone Star State boasts a treasure trove of outdoor attractions.

While most of these spots can be appreciated above ground, Texas is also home to a large number of caves. These subterranean sites offer their own kind of allure, drawing visitors keen to soak up the unique, otherworldly splendor found in underground caverns. 

One such site is the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, a nature preserve located in Texas' scenic Hill Country. More than just a cave, this gorgeous patch of land also features a canyon, a waterfall, and a grotto, along with plenty of plants and wildlife, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Austin, which is just 40 miles down the road.

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is run by a private not-for-profit group hoping to "inspire a lifelong practice of enjoying and protecting nature." The 76-acre property can only be accessed via guided tours that take visitors through an oak and juniper savanna, before descending through a limestone crevasse into the lush canyon the preserve is known for. This narrow gorge was once a massive cave that collapsed 100,000 years ago, creating the mystical landscape we see today.

The one-mile hike into the canyon may not be long, but it is steep, so sturdy shoes and a walking stick are recommended. The highlight of the walk is the 40-foot spring-fed waterfall that cascades into a cool green pool. Behind these falls is a hidden one-chamber cave that visitors can step into, soaking up the incredible atmosphere to the sound of falling water.

There are three tours into the canyon a day, and a spot can only be reserved online. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children (4-15 years old), while kids 3 and under are free. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center also offers other tours and programs, including night hikes, stargazing, silent hikes, and open space yoga. In addition, a visit to the Warren Skaaren Environmental Learning Center is a must while at the preserve. Opened in 2003 and designed by Jackson & McElhaney Architects, this award-winning building not only boasts green features such as solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, but also serves as a wilderness classroom for school kids and anyone else eager to learn about the environment in Central Texas.

While you're in the area, head to the nearby settlement of Dripping Springs to experience the essence of Texas Hill Country. This isn't just one of the region's prettiest destinations, but also has award-winning wines, so sit down and sample the Fall Creek Vineyards's tasting room, or pop into the Duchman Family Winery, which specializes in Italian grapes. For beer fans, there are a number of good craft breweries in the area, including 12 Fox Beer Co., Acopon Brewing Co., and Ghost Note Brewing, which features a covered, open-air taproom, along with live music on weekends.

Dripping Springs is also home to a number of stellar eateries where you can fuel up after exploring the canyon at Westcave. Homespun Kitchen & Bar is known for its quaint, family friendly American food, Summer Revival is a popular lunch spot featuring salads and sandwiches paired with their own top-notch wines, while Salt Lick BBQ is one of the most famous purveyors of grilled and smoked meats in all of Texas.

The town of Dripping Springs is named so for a reason, so it makes sense to soak in the healing waters that put the place on the map in the first place. Topping the list is the Hamilton Pool — an impossibly picturesque body of clear turquoise water which also happens to be one of the top-ranked swimming holes in America.