Night Hike

Discover a side of Westcave Preserve that few get to see. As the sun dips below the horizon, your adventure begins. Join a local naturalist for an unforgettable night hike into the heart of our treasured landscape. The journey starts with a descent down a 100-foot staircase, leading you away from the fading daylight and into a world awakening for the night. As you walk, your guide will share fascinating insights about the nocturnal animals that call this sanctuary home, their sounds providing a unique soundtrack to your expedition. This one-mile round trip hike offers a moderate to difficult challenge, rewarding you with an unparalleled natural spectacle. Your path winds through a sheltered canyon, a haven of lush plant life that feels even more magical as twilight deepens into darkness. The air grows cooler and the symphony of the night grows louder. Your destination is the head of the canyon, a place of serene beauty and power. Here, you will witness a breathtaking 40-foot waterfall cascading along a sheer cliff face. The water tumbles into the grotto pool below, a constant, life-giving pulse in the quiet of the Texas night. This experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with the preserve after dark, seeing the grotto and its canyon in a completely new light.