Twin Springs Preserve
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Hike Coordinator:
Hike Destination:
Entry into Twin Springs Preserve is restricted to individuals who have attended a “Leave No Trace” training class and obtained the required permit to hike within protected preserves of Williamson County. This 170-acre tract of land – the county’s premier nature preserve – is habitat for rare cave bugs, threatened Georgetown salamanders and endangered golden-cheeked warblers. In addition, it is home to wild turkey, fox, deer and raccoon. Numerous burn middens located throughout the preserve are vestiges of early human occupation. The property was purchased by Williamson County in 2009 at a cost of $2.3 million to serve as mitigation for any destruction or potential destruction of endangered species habitat in other areas of the county. Twin Springs opened to the first group of specially-trained visitors in late December of 2010.Hike Details: Hike Leaders will conduct groups of six along the mostly shaded, relatively flat loop trail within the preserve. Although this will be a leisurely hike, expect several hilly sections as well as stretches with limestone rocks. Pre-registration is required (see below).
Hike Registration:In keeping with the “Leave No Trace” philosophy, hikers will tour the preserve in small groups. To ensure that a Hike Leader is assigned to each group, the Hike Coordinator requests that participants sign up for this hike in advance by e-mailing him at @mail.com. Pre-registration will also simplify carpooling arrangements.
Hike Length: 2.5 mile loop within preserve. 4.0 miles (loop within preserve and side trip to shore of Lake Georgetown)
Hike Level: Walker
Hike Rating: 2.0
Hike Essentials:
- “Leave No Trace” Permit, displayed on your pack (required)
- Hiking boots (required)
- Hiking poles (highly recommended)
- Binoculars (for birding)
- 2+ quarts of water; snacks; name badge; ID tag
Fees: None
Restrooms: None
Schedule:
- 8:00 AM: Meet at Legacy Hills Pavilion and sign in
- 8:15 AM: Depart for trailhead
Website:
Download a Twin Springs Preserve trail map and obtain information on the Williamson County Conservation Foundation by visiting www.wilco.org/wccf. Background information on the “ Leave No Trace” program is posted on the Club website under TRAIL SAFETY>Leave No Trace.
Driving Distance:
From Sun City exit at Williams Drive to trailhead on Twin Springs Rd.: 5 Miles
Driving Instructions:
Turn right (west) out of Sun City onto Williams Drive. Take Williams Dr. approximately 1.5 miles to FM 3405 and turn left. Proceed on FM 3405 approximately 1.4 miles to the turn-off for Twin Springs Rd. on the left. Continue one-half mile on Twin Springs Rd. to its termination at a cul-de-sac. Park as close to the Preserve’s entry gate as possible.