Sunday March 30th 5-7pm

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Description

Join Cultured Forest at Westcave Preserve for an hour and half long guided Forest Bathing hike from an arid savanna through a limestone crevice down a 100-foot staircase into a sheltered canyon of lush plant life. You will pause for reflection at the head of the canyon where water falls along a stunning 40-foot cliff that stands replenishing the grotto. A tea ceremony will be held in the award-winning Environmental Learning Center to wrap up your experience. This session will be led by Cultured Forest founder Brooke Mellen, who you may have seen in Vogue and WSJ Magazine. She trained in Forest Medicine with Dr. Li in Japan.

About Forest Bathing: Forest Bathing is based on a Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku that involves connecting with nature by “Bathing in the Forest Atmosphere”. Studies show time in nature lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity and reduces stress. In this activity, you will indulge with fellow nature appreciators in relaxing mindfulness and self-care on a guided outdoor class. Plan to walk slowly and intentionally noting the sensory details of the park, while learning activities that allow you to better connect with yourself and the outdoors. Leave feeling centered and more at peace. Learn how to bring mindfulness in nature into your personal wellness routine.

Please wear comfortable shoes with traction and be prepared to walk down into and back up from the canyon on an inclining rock trail with a rope for support along the path. We recommend you dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.

Note:

• This is for ages 13 years old and up.
• Access to the canyon and cave is by guided tour only.
• No Swimming Allowed at Preserve
• All hikes are weather permitting.
• No pets are allowed even if left in the vehicle.
• Due to the nature of this program, this event requires a minimum number of participants. If the minimum number is not reached within 48 -72 hours before the program start time, the event will be cancelled. Guests will be notified by email and will receive a full refund.

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Dates

• Sunday March 30th 5-7pm

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Rates

$50/Adult (13yrs+)
$45/Westcave Member (13yrs+)

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Duration

2 hours

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FAQs

What is your Cancellation Policy:
Customers MUST provide a 24-hour notice via email to request a rebooking or full refund/credit for any reason. If Westcave cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will receive an email notice and a full refund. To cancel, click the "Cancel Booking" link under the picture of the grotto on your confirmation email. If you have any difficulties, please contact us by sending an email to info@westcave.org. No-shows will be charged the full price. . If your tour is not canceled, you must still provide 24-hours advanced notice to request a refund or rebooking for any reason.

What is the difference between Forest Bathing Guided Hike and Guided Canyon Tour?
Both events take visitors down to our waterfall and cave area at the head of our canyon. The Forest Bathing hike is designed to allow follow the practice of Forest Bathing on a guided outdoor class to learn relaxing mindfulness and self-care practices in the canyon and Grotto area. The Guided Canyon tour is our established tour where expert naturalists and storytellers guide visitors down to our waterfall and cave area sharing about our unique natural, cultural, and geologic history.

Do I have to take a guide? I just want to hike to the canyon and cave by myself.
Access to the grotto and cave is available by guided tour only.

Do you allow pets?
No pets are allowed on the premise of Westcave Preserve, even if on a leash, and may not be left in a vehicle. If you are found with a pet on the Preserve or locked in your car, you will kindly be asked to leave.
We recommend visiting Milton Reimers Ranch Park (2 miles away) if you want to spend time outside with your pet.

Can we swim at Westcave?
There is no swimming at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River.

Can I take a ride share to Westcave?
Please DO NOT take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft) to Westcave. We are outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded.

Is the Forest Bathing Guided Hike with Cultured Forest child-friendly? Can my baby/toddler attend?
Our Forest Bathing Hike is for ages 13 years old and up to allow for an immersive experience.

How difficult is the hike?
The experience is a 1-mile, roundtrip, moderate to difficult hike from the parking lot. Visitors hike in and out of the canyon by way of a long, winding, uneven 125 step staircase built into the slope of the canyon. Once in the canyon there are additional steps, rocks and roots to navigate. We encourage visitors to wear sturdy shoes and bring their own walking stick if needed.

Do you have restrooms?
Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place.