Holiday Hike Eckhardt Tract
Description
Holiday Hike at Balcones Canyonlands NWR - Eckhardt Tract
Celebrate the season with a cheerful hike through the Eckhardt Tract of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge — a beautiful area not normally open to the public!
We’ll begin and end our journey at the Shin Oak Observation Deck and the Mindfulness Trail, a peaceful spot known for great bird watching and sweeping Hill Country views. Don your Santa hat, reindeer ears, or just bring your jolly holiday spirit as we explore this rare part of the Refuge together.
After the hike, we’ll toast the season with refreshing, non-alcoholic brews from Athletic Brewing Company, whose Two for the Trails Foundation generously supported the creation of the accessible Mindfulness Trail.
Come enjoy a festive day of nature, community, and holiday cheer!
How difficult is this hike?
Through the hike we will walk on various trails at the Refuge. These trails are frequently rocky and there may be some inclines and descents. We will be hiking approximately 2 - 2.5 miles in total.
EQUIPMENT:
Wear appropriate shoes, bring plenty of water, bug spray, and sunscreen. Due to slippery rocks on the trail, hiking poles are also recommended for added stability.
Meeting Location
Shin Oak Observation Deck
1929 Ranch to Market Rd 1869, Bertram, TX 78605
RESTROOMS:
There is a porta-potty at Shin Oak Observation Deck.
Drinking Water: Please note that drinking water is not available at the trailhead.
Group Size: Registration is limited to 20 participants for this hike.
Weather Advisory and Other Cancellations: In the event that we need to cancel due to extreme weather or other unforeseen conditions you will be notified via email and text.
Participant Cancellations: Our hikes are popular and often have wait lists, if you need to cancel, we ask that you try to do so at least 48 hours in advance so that a wait-list participant is notified in adequate time to be able to join us on the trail!
To CANCEL:
Send us an email to hikes@friendsofbalcones.org