Posted in Austin
July 03, 2018
This Unique Destination Near Austin Is Home To Over 3 Million Bats
Fredericksburg is known for its fabulous boutiques and wonderful wineries, but there’s another magnificent attraction hiding beneath the surface. Old Tunnel State Park sits just 20 miles south of the city’s historic main street, and it’s well worth a trip. An abandoned railroad tunnel runs through the land, housing some of the area’s most magnificent creatures. This unique destination near Austin is home to over three million bats.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Despite its small size, thousands of visitors flock to Old Tunnel State Park to take in its incredible sights.
There's an eerie beauty surrounding this deserted railroad. As you walk along this dilapidated piece of history, you can almost hear the roaring train whistle as it rumbles over the wooden tracks.
A breezy half-mile trail surrounds the area, and it's perfect for a leisurely stroll. As you walk over the rustic paths, you'll be surrounded by blissful, untouched nature. It's not uncommon to come across a family of deer passing by or spot a rare bird flying overhead.
The peaceful countrysides are always a lovely attraction, but nothing beats the incredible sunset show put on by the 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats.
At dusk, hundreds of visitors crowd around this tunnel to gaze at the bats. Guests can either stand on the upper viewing deck or embark on a special lower viewing tour. No matter how you see them, it's always an astonishing spectacle.
If you've gaped at the bats under the South Congress Bridge, this sight will give you goosebumps. Old Tunnel State Park houses double the amount of bats, and their flight looks especially stunning against the rural Hill Country landscape.
A quick 1.5 hour drive west of the city will lead you to this enchanting sight. Old Tunnel State Park is located at 10619 Old San Antonio Road in Fredericksburg, Texas. The trail is open year-round from sunrise to 5:00 pm. The bats can be seen from May - October around sunset. Entrance is free for the park, but lower tunnel viewing tours cost $5 per person. Due to the bats' sensitivity to noise, children under 3 years old are not allowed on the viewing deck. For more information, visit the Old Tunnel website or Facebook page.
Have you seen the 3 million bats make their flight? If you’re aching for more spectacle, this natural wonders road trip will show you Austin like you’ve never seen it before.
