Guided Canyon Tour at Westcave Preserve
Explore a lush canyon and grotto on a naturalist-led 1.5–2 hour hike
From$21/ person
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Discover what we've curated for you
Explore a lush canyon and grotto on a naturalist-led 1.5–2 hour hike
Discover what we've curated for you
1.5-2 hours
Up to 25 people
Guided hike, Uplands access
Join a naturalist-led hike through arid savanna into a limestone crevice and a sheltered canyon to a grotto beneath a 40‑foot cliff. Cover about one mile on a moderate to difficult route with stairs and uneven terrain.
Access to the canyon and grotto is only with staff. Groups are limited to 25; the one‑mile route is moderate to difficult with a long staircase and uneven terrain. No pets or swimming; strollers are not allowed.
Do you allow pets?
No pets are allowed and they may not be left in a vehicle. Guests with pets will be asked to leave
Can we swim?
No swimming is permitted and there is no access to the Pedernales River
How difficult is the hike?
It is a 1‑mile, roundtrip, moderate to difficult hike with a long, uneven 125‑step staircase plus additional steps, rocks, and roots
Is the hike child-friendly?
Strollers are not allowed due to the staircase and trail. The hike is 1.5–2 hours and you may need to carry a baby or toddler
Can I take a ride share?
Ride shares are not recommended; the area is outside pickup range and you may become stranded
Do you have restrooms?
Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available
Provide 24 hours' notice to rebook or receive a full refund. If the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a full refund. No-shows are charged in full.
Environmental Learning Center (main building)
Westcave delivers a surprisingly rich nature experience through guided tours that visitors consistently praise for being both educational and beautiful. The roughly mile-long hike takes you through distinct Hill Country ecosystems before reaching a stunning grotto with a cave and waterfall. Guides like Joe, Mara, and others earn specific shout-outs for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, turning groups of strangers into enthusiastic learners swapping nature facts by tour's end. The preserve sits about 20 minutes from Hill Country Galleria and close to Hamilton Pool, making it an easy add to a Hill Country adventure. Reviewers love the unique ecosystem here, noting it feels different from typical Austin-area landscapes. The tours emphasize education and conservation, which resonates strongly with families, homeschool groups, and nature enthusiasts. Just know this is designed as a shorter, guided experience rather than an extended hiking excursion, so adjust expectations accordingly. Many visitors also rave about special events like star parties in the dark sky area.
Relatively short hike however, is a fun and informative way to learn and experience the different ecosystems and geology that makeup Hill Country. Our guide Joe was very knowledgeable.
4 C
January 5, 2026
Relatively short hike however, is a fun and informative way to learn and experience the different ecosystems and geology that makeup Hill Country. Our guide Joe was very knowledgeable.
4 C
January 5, 2026