Tours begin at the Westcave Preserve learning center where students are handed an illustrated check sheet to help identify birds, rocks and plants they will likely see on a walk. INSET: One of the bird species in the area is the golden -cheeked warbler. (Photo by Mike Murphy)
the building fund. A model of green architecture, the frame is built from recycled steel; solar panels supplement electricity needs, and a water collection system harness rooftop runoff. A solar observatory tracks the sun’s arc across the sky through the four seasons. A library, artifact display case, photos, drawings and illustrations explain in straightforward language the history, geology, plant and animal life visitors will see at Westcave. But back to those tours Vickery takes schoolchildren on four days a week, he says Westcave can provide a memorable moment that lasts a lifetime. “When they get down to that grotto, come across that footbridge, they’re just like wow. ‘I’m in Texas? I just can’t believe this.’”
IF YOU GO From the Killeen area take U.S. Highway 190/Interstate 14 to U.S. Highway 281 and turn south. Take U.S. 281 to RR 962 East in Round Top and follow signs to 24814 Hamilton Pool Road, Round Mountain, TX 78663. From Austin, take Texas 71 west to the village of Bee Cave. Turn left at Ranch Road 3238, also called Hamilton Pool Road. Drive 14 miles to the Pedernales River. Westcave Preserve is the first gate on your right after crossing the river. Tuesday through Friday: Reserved Group Tours. Email Paul@Westcave. org or call 830-825-3442. Teachers are encouraged to schedule field trips as
far in advance as possible. Saturday and Sunday canyon and cave access by guided tour only. Tours begin at 10 a.m. noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Ages 4-17 $7. Adults $15. Reservations for weekend tours are not accepted. Tours often sell out hours beforehand. Many visitors arrive early, buy tickets, drive to various eateries or wineries in the area and return for their tour. Others buy tickets and hike while they wait. Uplands access Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; TuesdayFriday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No smoking. No pets. No drones. Wheelchair accessible for parts of the Uplands. Call for special accommodations. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM
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