Texas has plenty of unique destinations, especially when it comes to natural wonders. But for the last two weeks of October and the first two weeks of November, Lost Maples State Natural Area is hard to beat.
That’s when the Uvalde bigtooth maple trees put on a spectacular, ever-changing display, as leaves turn brilliant shades of green, gold, rust, and red. Try to escape the crowds and find a solitary spot to sit and relax as the breeze rustles the limbs of the trees as you listen for the buzzy song of a golden-cheeked warbler. As you hike through the wilderness, you will encounter deep canyons of limestone and heavily forested hills. Streams run downhill to join the Sabinal River.
Hoofing it through the 11 miles of hiking trails at Lost Maples is just one way to take in its splendor. You can also bike, horseback ride, kayak, or tube down the river. Vanderpool is five miles down the road, and just outside of town you’ll find The Lodges at Lost Maples. Each of the cabins has a fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, and living and dining areas. Because the property sits 2,100 feet above sea level, when the sun sets, you can sit outside and watch the orange glow spread across the hills.
Distance From Dallas: 358 Miles // 5 Hours 28 Minutes
