This Natural Staircase Hike In Texas Is Like Something From A Fairytale
Climbing stairs isn’t an activity most people generally see as fun, but this hike will forever change your perspective. River Place Nature Trail is one of the most challenging treks Austin has to offer, but its abundance of natural staircases makes the journey worth every drop of sweat.
Hiding in the River Place area is an enchanting nature trail that makes hikers forget they're in the middle of a big city. This challenging trek clocks in at 5.5 miles round-trip, featuring a waterfall, rare birds, beautiful rock formations, and spellbinding natural staircases.
Prepare for a workout! The hike is rather difficult, with each step eliciting a burning sensation in your legs. You'll have climbed nearly 3,000 steps with a 1700-foot elevation gain by the time it's all said and done.
Several different staircases make up the trail, with flat surfaces in between so hikers can regain their composure. While you're huffing and puffing, don't forget to stop and appreciate the scenery. Whimsical plant life can be found from start to finish, reminiscent of a children's fairytale.
Luckily, a thick forest canopy provides ample shade to 90% of the path. Even so, we recommend starting early in anticipation of temperatures starting to rise about mid-morning.
Tiny pockets of tranquility are woven into the strenuous uphill trek. The lush green landscape is reminiscent of Middle Earth at times, guaranteed to leave you absolutely awestruck.
Upon reaching the summit, get ready for some killer panoramic views. Instead of heading out at dawn, save your hike for the evening to catch an iconic Texas sunset. Rest assured you won't be disappointed!
When it comes time to descend the staircase, an opposite perspective reveals aspects of the trail you didn't see climbing up. Small differences make it seem like you stepped through a portal into another dimension where things are shifted ever so slightly.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
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