Lost Maples State Natural Area, 1/17/15 - 1/19/15

20. Scampsite #21, there were troops of Boy Scouts in the campground when we arrived Saturday evening.  Sunday we hiked the East Trail, which is some of the more challenging hiking in the Texas Hill Country.  It reminded us a little of the South Rim in Big Bend.  Hilly and rocky, with amazing views.

Our nights were cold (20's in the morning), but days were perfect.  We would like to return in the fall to see the changing maple leaves and hike the West Loop trail.  Wear good hiking shoes and bring poles - hikes are steep and rugged! 

Pond from the shore.

Pond from the hiking trail above! 

We found a new winery very close to the park: Lost Maples Winery at Polvadeau Vineyards.  Their tasting room had only been open for 4 days! They grow Black Spanish grapes (Lenoir), which are well-suited to the ecology of the area and have been grown there for over 100 years.

Bandera is the nearest county seat and is worth a visit; there are shops, dance halls, and of course, a lovely old courthouse.  The roads around Lost Maples are also well-known to motorcyclists and driving clubs for their windy, hilly, picturesque experience.