If You Can Brave the Heat, Hiking Around Austin Can Be a Treat

So summer's here and you are sick of sitting inside desperately trying to find that perfect setting on the AC (cold and not expensive). So why not try some hiking, at least when you get back home your house will feel nice and cool.

But before you even set out make sure that you have some good comfortable shoes that will give you proper support, you will probably want to wear shorts, and definitely think of brining a hat. Of course sunscreen and plenty of water are also important. One more tip: keep your cell phone on you for emergencies (but no texting to friends, you are supposed to be enjoying nature).

Now you have all your supplies, you need to decide where to go. So here are a few suggestions, but don't be afraid to find a few trails on your own too.

For a fairly easy trail try the four-mile loop trail at the Pedernales Falls State Park. You will see a good selection of wildlife and be able to cross a few creeks (provided they haven't dried up). One more positive factor about the trail is that it is often fairly empty so you can enjoy the peace and quiet. The Park Headquarters building often has maps of the park which they will provide for free.

For an easy trail right in Austin try the Barton Creek trail. While the trail itself is quite long there are many ways to do a shorter hike (and maps are placed helpfully around the trail). A nice feature of this trail is that it also takes you through Zilker Park, and you can marvel at their unnaturally bright green grass. This trail also has bathrooms and water fountains along it.

For an amazing hiking experience try Enchanted Rock. There is abundant wildlife, the rock itself is beautiful and you can climb easily right to the top. There are also more challenging climbing areas and you can get guided tours inside of the dome rock (which is made of pink granite). Remember your water as it can get very hot out there, especially when you are on the rock.

Whichever trail you choose I hope you have fun and when you are done you can regale your disbelieving friends about the wonders you saw in that Texas heat.