City: Austin, TX

Category: Parks & Recreation

Description: The public areas of the refuge are located near the community of Lago Vista, northwest of Austin. The refuge gets its name from the Spanish explorers who, when they saw the terraced hills west of what is now Austin, dubbed the land “Balcones.” From afar, the land looks dry and scrubby, but numerous creeks run through, over, and under the terrain, and wildflowers, grasses, trees, and plants abound. This is home to the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo, two little birds whose songs can still be heard thanks to efforts like the BCCP.The refuge has two public areas: Warbler Vista Trail, just outside Lago Vista on FM 1431, and Doeskin Ranch, located on FM 1174. Warbler Vista has two trails through the limestone terraces—Cactus Rocks Trail is a 0.6-mile one-way trail and is an easy to moderate hike. This trail winds through golden-cheeked warbler habitat of juniper and hardwood trees. The warblers arrive from Mexico and Latin America in mid-Mar and leave in July. Pick up a guide pamphlet at the parking lot kiosk. Keep in mind this is a delicate ecosystem dedicated to the birds, so no pets or rowdy activity. The Vista Knoll Trail is 11⁄5 miles round-trip and is a moderate hike. This trail offers great views of Lake Travis and Lago Vista. The Shin Oak Observation Deck is set in the middle of black-capped vireo habitat. The deck is closed for a short period in spring just as the vireos arrive to minimize the disturbance to the birds. Check the refuge website for the specific dates the deck is closed each year. Once the birds settle into nesting activities, the observation deck is reopened to visitors. The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset, but some areas may be closed for public hunts or bird nesting activities.The Texas Ornithological Society and the Travis Audubon Society conduct field trips to the refuge, and several annual events throughout the year offer information and tours. One of the most popular events is the Annual Texas Songbird Festival hosted by the Lago Vista community in late Apr or early May. Master naturalists lead area birding expeditions, some to the refuge and others to backyard habitats. There are workshops and seminars on bird photography, butterfly gardening, landscaping fort wildlife, etc. Local craftspeople also show their wares. Contact the Lago Vista Chamber of Commerce at (512) 267-7952, (888) 328-5246, or visit http://songbirdfestival.homestead.com.