Reimers Ranch brings the Pedernales River into Travis County life

Milton Reimers Ranch Park shows the Hill Country river side of western Travis County, beyond Lake Austin and Lake Travis. Travis County Parks calls it the largest parkland acquisition in county history, with almost three miles of continuous frontage along the Pedernales River.

There is a lot packed into it: hiking, more than 18 miles of mountain biking trail, rock climbing the county describes as world-class, fishing for white bass in the river, and swimming. There is also an astronomical observatory for star-viewing, helped by how dark this edge of the county still gets at night.

One practical heads-up from the county: the walk from the parking lot down to the river is about a quarter mile on a steep grade, so plan the climb back up. Check the county page for trail status, fees, and program reservations before you go.