Family-Friendly Guided Hike at Martin Tract

Family Hike at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER

Free Family Fun Outside! On January 24, 2026, we invite families to join us in a morning outside, free of screens. 

Friends of Balcones is proud to partner with OutwardBound USA in launching #TheReset, a national call on January 24, 2026 to unplug from screens, step outside, and live the moments we usually just watch.

Get ready for a playful, nature-filled outing your kids will talk about long after the day is over. Join us for a Family morning at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, where curiosity leads the way and every turn on the trail brings something new to discover. Together we’ll explore the refuge at a kid-friendly pace with two options:

1. Join a Guided Hike starting at 9:30 with Nature Bingo - spotting wildlife, plants, colors, sounds, and little wonders that make the Hill Country so special.

or

2. Explore at your own pace on the shorter trails and pollinator garden with a borrowed Friends of Balcones Nature Backpack- including Nature Journaling, Magnifying Loupe, Bird and Insect guides and more.   

Breathe in fresh air, listen for birds, follow animal tracks, and watch your children’s imaginations ignite as nature becomes their playground. Whether your family hikes often or is just getting started, this outing is designed to be welcoming, relaxed, and full of moments to remember. After the hike, we’ll gather for a simple family-friendly refreshment and a chance for kids to share their favorite discoveries.

Registration is FREE. Come explore, laugh, learn, and make new memories together on the trail!

Want to be part of the official TheRESet? What will you do with your 24? Sign the pledge to contribute over 10 million hours of real-world

Connection on January 24, 2026. Visit The-Reset.org to sign up. 

Who Should Join:
Families with children of all ages who are ready to explore, laugh, and discover the wonders of the refuge together. 

What to Bring:

• Water and snacks to enjoy on the trail

• Bug spray or long pants for grassy spots

• Closed Toed Shoes

• Items to help you explore: Binoculars or journal

Time:
Plan for 1.5–2 hours of easy hiking. 

Location

Martin Track is located at BCNWR Headquarters: 24518 Ranch Road 1431, Marble Falls, TX

Bathroom: Restrooms are available at the Headquarters building. 

Arrival Details:
Since the Headquarters and Visitor Center is normally closed on weekends- this is a unique chance to explore.  If you want to join the official Guided Hike, please arrive before the 9:30 Start time. Otherwise, come anytime between 9-11:30 to explore the pollintor gardens and shorter trails.   

Google Map Link

Group Size: Sign up today, Registration is limited to 30 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 at least two hours prior to the hike start time.

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: Simply send us an email at hikes@friendsofbalcones.org!