Photo Hike (Martin Tract) - Friends of Balcones Canyonlands

Photography Hike at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Bring your cameras and enjoy the many photo opportunities at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge!

This photo stroll will be a great way to stop and appreciate the beauty of the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Guided hike leader and photographer Richard Gaines will share information on the refuge and share photography tips to help you get some great photos of this beautiful area!

On this hike we will be walking the trails of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, and stopping frequently to take photos of the beauty around the Refuge.

Who is this hike for?

If you are interested in nature photography and continuing to expand your skill sets, then this hike is for you! Any level of photography experience is welcome, we will walk and experiment together.

You will be walking and hiking throughout this event, and therefore we recommend you only bring the gear you have that is easily portable. Tip: Any kind of camera will work – including your smartphone.

How difficult is this hike?

This 2.8 mile hike will be along an old 2-track ranch road that has 377 feet of elevation gains. The loose rocks combined with short steep slopes make this mostly un-shaded trail a moderately difficult 2.5 - 3 hour hike.

We hike at a moderate pace and have several stops along the way to discuss plants, geology, birds, habitats and more!

Enjoy long ranging views, learn about how the refuge has changed over time and the conservation work done today to enhance habitats for native Texas Hill Country plants and wildlife.

EQUIPMENT: In addition to bringing your photography equipment, wear appropriate shoes, bring plenty of water, bug spray, and sunscreen. Due to slippery rocks on the trail, hiking poles are also recommended for added stability.