if you are looking to do observing away from the camping area in the lower portion of the park you will need ranger permission to set up here. above the parking area near the trailhead for the east trail sits a fairly level meadow where the astronomers set up. We were fortunate enough to be invited to join them on our trip as the dates coincided. The salsa group is known for partnering with Lost Maples and providing astronomical viewing for the public and park visitors on a quarterly basis. though beyond the initial boundary set with phase 1 this park was chosen as part of our assessment for its impressive skies along with it being an observing site frequented by the San Antonio League of sidewalk astronomers (SALSA). Sporting a similar bortle rating of 3, this quaint park is packed full of surprises. We were equally delighted with the environment found at Lost Maples. The remote nature of the park paired with the dark skies made it a most enjoyable trip. On our most recent trip to Colorado bend state park, we thought we had won the camping/observing lottery. The East-West Trail also has some of the most colorful Fall foliage we saw in the park, so you don't want to skip it! When you come off the East-West trail you will find yourself in the first parking lot of the park, but a short walk down the road will lead you to your original starting point.Lost Maples State Natural Area 37221 F.M. What I would suggest is taking the East-West Trail back to the parking area to give yourself a nice 5 mile loop hike. Technically at this point the East Trail is at its end. Finally at the bottom, there is a popular spot for swimming in the Sabinal River met with limestone bluffs that you may see some cliff-jumpers on (although is very much frowned upon by park rangers). At the top you will be met with a number of scenic viewpoints of the park and surrounding Hill Country before heading back down on the West side. Next you will start to make a somewhat steep ascent towards the top of the canyon- about 350ft of elevation gain in a little less than a mile. Soon you will come to Monkey Rock and the Grotto, two limestone features that make for a nice stopping point to take in the scenery and unique plant life. Even in the spring crossing should not be an issue as it is very low. I would suggest taking the short Maple Trail that leads back into the East Trail if you want a chance of seeing more Fall color.Īfter joining back with the East trail you will come across a series of crossings from the crystal clear Sabinal River. From the parking lot starts both the East Trail, and the Maple Trail. There are two parking lots you can park at, for the East Trail however you will want to park at the second lot, which is at the end of the main park road. Once you've gotten into the park and are ready to hit the trails, you will want to head north on the main park road past the headquarters and campground. Otherwise you may find yourself parked in a line of cars waiting to get inside the park that can be two hours long. A word to the wise to those visiting the park in the Fall, arrive as close to the opening of the park at 8am as you can. If you simply show the ranger your tag from Garner, they will admit you into the park for free. ![]() In order to book a campsite during this time you most likely have to book up to a year in advance! If you find yourself out of luck for a campsite don't fret too much, nearby Garner State Park ( has over 200 campsites available, and is only a 30 minute drive from Lost Maples. The park maintains a Foliage Report () complete with photos so you can plan the best time to visit and catch a glimpse of the most color. Although you can visit and hike at Lost Maples year-round, the most popular time is from mid-October through November when the vibrant Fall colors draw the crowds. ![]() ![]() Tucked away deep in Hill Country near Vanderpool, TX, Lost Maples has a unique supply of Maple trees thanks to the deepness of the canyons found in this area. Lost Maples State Natural Area is the go to place if you want to escape to New England-like Fall scenery in Texas, which is hard to believe for some. Great location to take in fall foliage.in Texas! Approximately 2-3 hour hike time.
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