Stargaze with local astronomers and high-quality telescopes at a dark sky location
2 hours
Guided stargazing, Telescopes
Spend an evening stargazing at Westcave Preserve, a dark sky location convenient to Austin. Observe celestial sights through high-quality telescopes with local astronomers on hand to answer questions.
Gates close 15 minutes after start; late arrivals are not admitted and are not refunded. Event is weather dependent and may be canceled if viewing is poor or if the minimum attendance is not met. No pets and no access to the canyon or cave; bring water and only red-filtered lights.
Can I take a ride share to Westcave?
Please do not take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft). The area is outside the pickup range and you may become stranded.
Do you have restrooms?
Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage.
Do you allow pets?
No pets are allowed on the premise of Westcave Preserve and may not be left in a vehicle.
Can we swim at Westcave?
There is no swimming at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River.
Free changes or full refund if requested before 12 pm the day before the event. Full refund if operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged in full.
Discover what we've curated for you
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