Good Location for First-Time Backpacker - Wild Texas Forums: Parks, Travel & Recreation

03-25-2005, 02:43 PM

Hello

I am an experienced camper, but have become interested in backpacking since moving to Texas and having all the wide open land just waiting for me! I plan to start with a 2 night trip, and was hopeing to get some opinions on good places to start in the Austin area for a couple of beginners. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!

ploddinTod · 03-25-2005, 05:32 PM

Read all the threads here concerning the Goodwater Trail in Georgetown. That would be a good option for novices since it's close to Austin. Be sure to spend a night at Sawyer Camp.

01ACRViper · 03-26-2005, 02:19 PM

the loop at perdenales falls SP isn't too bad, might want to check that out. glad you're getting into backpacking, it's oh so much fun

munkee · 03-28-2005, 10:33 AM

The loop out at Bastrop State Park is good for beginners too. The whole trail is about 8 miles long and you can make it shorter if you need to. Enchanted Rock SNA is a great place for an overnighter as well.

Shannon · 03-28-2005, 04:48 PM

Hill Country SNA is an option, as well -- there are a couple different primitive campsite areas that require a hike-in and you can take however roundabout a route you want to get to them if the shortest distance is too non-backpacking like (eg. makes you feel like you're just hiking with too much stuff on your back.

)

I haven't backpacked at HCSNA yet, but I've hiked and camped there many times.