Explore Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Wild Basin protects 227 acres of Texas Hill country habitat and offers almost three miles of hiking trails. Hike on weekends and holidays by reserving a hiking pass. Reservations are good for one vehicle and up to six people at these times:

Weekend and holiday hiking sessions:
Morning Hike: 7:30am-10:30am
Midday Hike: 11:00am-2:00pm
Afternoon Hike: 2:30pm-5:30pm

Check-in required within the first two hours of the hiking session.
Morning session by 9:30am
Midday session by 1pm
Afternoon Session by 4:30pm

Please be aware that our MAIN GATE does not open till 7:30am on Weekends and Holidays.

Reservation Details

Usage Fees:
Adults (Ages: 18+): $5.00
Youth (Ages 6-17): $3.00
Children (Ages 1-5): Free
Group Rate (4 to 6 adults): $15.00

Choose a date at right to reserve a hiking pass or call.

Same day reservations are not available by phone.

If you arrive with more people in your vehicle than on your reservation the pricing will be adjusted and any difference will be charged to the card on file.

UPDATE: The north east section of Arroyo Vista loop trail has been closed due to a construction project that should be completed by 1/10/25. During construction Arroyo Vista is no longer a loop trail.

Wild Basin is a nature preserve. Pets, bikes, picnics, smoking/fire, weapons, drones and collecting are all prohibited. Everything is protected on the preserve.

Get ready to hike. Be prepared for rugged Hill Country terrain and varying weather conditions. Carry a digital Wild Basin Trail Map. Bring water to carry with you on the trail. The Visitor Center is currently closed and portable restrooms are located in the parking area.

Wild Basin follows state and local health orders, and the St. Edward’s University Healthy Hilltop Community Standards. The preserve may close at any time and without notice due to current community conditions.

For financial assistance on weekends, you can submit a fee waiver request. Allow up to two business days for a response. Fee Waiver Request

Inquiries may also be emailed to wb_reservations@stedwards.edu or you may call 512-327-7622.

When submitting an inquiry, please allow up to two business days for a response.

Wild Basin protects 227 acres of Texas Hill country habitat and offers almost three miles of hiking trails. The property is co-owned and co-managed by Travis County and St. Edward's University.