Colorado Bend State Park is in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, two hours north of Austin, TX. With over 35 miles of trails and rugged wilderness, Colorado Bend is a hidden gem of the Texas State Park System. Three moderate to difficult trails will be offered in Colorado Bend State Park and an easy walk will be offered in historic Lampasas, TX. Don’t miss the featured 10k hike that leads to the beautiful Gorman Falls.
Join the West Texas Trail Walkers this October 7-9 to hike the trails in Colorado Bend State Park. Located deep in the heart of Texas, this park is a hidden gem of the Texas State Park System. While the park lacks the altitude of far west Texas parks, it offers just as challenging trails through the rugged Texas Hill Country. Be sure to wear hiking boots and bring a hiking pole.
Friday, October 7 5km / 11km
This is a rugged hike featuring a beautiful waterfall and a serene spring-fed stream. To reach the waterfall the trail descends along a steep natural rock staircase with cable railing. Magnificent trees line the spring-fed stream and lily pads float on the spring-fed pools.
On Friday evening, join your friends for a “pizza and beer” happy hour at Putters and Gutters in Lampasas, Texas.
Sunday, October 9 5km / 10km
Finish the weekend on Sunday, October 9 with a moderate 10 or 5 km hike on the Spicewood Springs Trails. The loop trail starts at the Colorado River near the park headquarters. The upper trail is on a ridge that has many scenic canyon viewpoints. Eventually the trail leads down to the beautiful Spicewood Springs. This section of trail follows a creek lined with pools of clear, cold water. There are several water crossings. Take off your shoes and socks and let your feet enjoy the refreshing water.
Saturday, October 8 5km - 17km
Offering hiking distances between 5 to 17 km, the Cedar Chopper Trails on Saturday, October 8 traverse the core of Colorado Bend State Park. High ridges and steep canyons with limestone outcroppings and sinkholes make this a challenging hike. Mid-way through the hike the trail flattens and follows the Colorado River.
Dinner Saturday night is at Bella Italia Restaurant in Lampasas, Texas. A state park ranger will give a presentation on the history of the Colorado Bend State Park.
October 6-9 5km / 10km
A 10/5 km historical downtown walk in the city of Lampasas, Texas is available October 6-9. Lampasas was once a resort destination known for its mineral springs and crystal-clear spring water.
Our host lodging is at the Best Western Plus in the charming Hill Country city of Lampasas, Texas. Thirty rooms are available October 7-9 at the negotiated rate of $99 for a single king bed and $109 for two queen beds. Please call the Best Western Plus at 1-512-556-2100 as soon as possible and mention that you are with the West Texas Trail Walkers to secure this special rate.
The nearest city to the park is Lampasas, Texas. A limited number of rooms are available at the Best Western Plus for $99 plus tax for a single king bed or $109 plus tax for a room with two queen beds, 512-556-2100. Nearby is the budget Country Inn with rooms under $100, 512-556-6201. Check with the Lampasas Visitor Center, lampasas.org for more motel and camping options. Camping is available at Colorado Bend State Park but there is no water, electricity or sewer. Register on-line at texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
Because Colorado Bend State Park strictly limits the number of vehicles and people in the park, be sure to read the brochure for specific instructions on carpooling. All participants are required to pre-register by September 23. This means that the West Texas Trail Walkers will have almost exclusive access to the trails each morning! The registration form and brochure can be found at the West Texas Trail Walkers website, www.westtexastrailwalkers.org.