Jump into your Ford from Johnson Brothers and head south to The Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. This area is a park that spreads out over 46,000 acres of secure land for rare species, most of which are birds. This wildlife refuge offers the best experiences for bird watching in Texas. Two endangered song bird species can be seen here; the black-capped vireo and the golden-cheeked warbler.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Stop by the refuge headquarters to speak with staff and volunteers who will provide you with brochures, maps and checklists and can also update you on what’s going on in the refuge that day.
The refuge is known for hosting many outstanding and educational events throughout the year that are fun for all ages. You can expect anything from guided nature walks to an array of workshops and festivals. The goal is to bring family and friends together for an educational and fun experience of how to further protect the endangered species and habitat of the golden-cheeked warbler and the black-capped vireo.
Explore the many miles of trails through the Balcones Canyonsland National Wildlife Refuge. Visit the Shin Oak Observation Deck to spot the black-capped vireo habitat. This is the best public viewing area for the vireos in the refuge. It contains available parking and an observation deck.
Visit Warbler Vista and Sunset Deck on the south side of the refuge. There are 2.5 miles of trails and outstanding sights. Explore three different trails while appreciating the prime golden-cheek warbler habitat. You can cruise through in your Lincoln or hike to the Sunset Deck that offers sights of Lake Travis which provides an excellent opportunity to listen for the golden cheeked warbler among other birds.
Take the kids and head out to Post Oak Creek trail which is a relaxed .4 mile long primitive path that brings you along Post Oak Creek. It offers ideal opportunities to see migratory birds. This easy to walk fun trail is located at the Refuge’s Headquarters so you can’t miss it.
As with any park, you are visiting for the day so be sure to bring extra drinking water, a hat and proper footwear. Embrace the rule of what you pack in, pack out. Have a fun and safe trip from your friends at Johnson Bros.