The limestone bedrock and rolling hills of this natural area give trails that are both beautiful and harsh. Lost Maples East Trail Loop will really test your mettles, The West Trail is an exploration of bluff terrain and Lytles Loop Trail is a perfect walk through reclaimed bushland.
This 4.6 mile trail is quite challenging and it has a heart-racing 0.8 mile climb to test your endurance. The view of the Sabina Valley is well worth it and there is a scenic overlook to take in the view. Be sure to go in November when the maple leaves change their color.
This trail has a whopping elevation gain of 839 feet. You will pass a beautiful spring and cross a deep ravine. The trail is well known for its fall colors from the Bigtooth maples. There is a primitive camping ground at the end of the trail that is particularly social at the weekends.
Take this easy trail and see the wildflower bloom along the path. 30% of the trail is shaded and the terrain is rocky underfoot. Walk through the hill country and reclaimed bushland and relax after the strenuous west and east trails.
The rustic Lost Maples State Natural Area hotels are some of the many amenities in this area. There is also some great camping, the Bandera Natural History Museum and The Frontier Times Museum to keep you and your kids happy.
Go out and experience the local wildlife from your Lost Maples State Natural Area cabin. For a peaceful and meditative time, take the children fishing at Sabinal river. The surroundings also house rare birds, deer and the Mexican free-tailed bats that would make great objects for discovery.
What kid doesn't like replicas of dinosaurs and ice age creatures? In this museum you can see over a hundred hand crafted animals. The trail of habitats is a fascinating walk through various ecologies and there are native plants that attract local birds and butterflies.
Bring your children back in time at the Frontier Times Museum. Its eclectic nature will enrapture both adults and children. See the Doane Western Art Gallery, The Texas Heroes Hall of Fame and end the day at the local gift shop.
