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Once you've gotten into the park and are ready to hit the trails, you will want to head north on the main park road past the headquarters and campground. There are two parking lots you can park at, for the East Trail however you will want to park at the second lot, which is at the end of the main park road. From the parking lot starts both the East Trail, and the Maple Trail. I would suggest taking the short Maple Trail that leads back into the East Trail if you want a chance of seeing more Fall color.
After joining back with the East trail you will come across a series of crossings from the crystal clear Sabinal River. Even in the spring crossing should not be an issue as it is very low. Soon you will come to Monkey Rock and the Grotto, two limestone features that make for a nice stopping point to take in the scenery and unique plant life. Next you will start to make a somewhat steep ascent towards the top of the canyon- about 350ft of elevation gain in a little less than a mile. At the top you will be met with a number of scenic viewpoints of the park and surrounding Hill Country before heading back down on the West side. Finally at the bottom, there is a popular spot for swimming in the Sabinal River met with limestone bluffs that you may see some cliff-jumpers on (although is very much frowned upon by park rangers).
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Hike the East Trail at Lost Maples
Absolutely enjoyed. Took a girls trip for a day hike. Recommend downloading driving directions before heading out, lost signal 20 minutes before arriving.
Hike the East Trail at Lost Maples
This park (and this trail in particular) is beautiful all year long! It's spectacular in the fall though when the trees are changing.
Hike the East Trail at Lost Maples
Lost Maples is truly an awesome park. Two short loops are great for easy day hikes or for testing new gear in the back country. The best part is, if worst comes to worst, you’re only a couple of hours walk from the car. They have several primitive sites, both on high ground and down in the valley. There is plenty of access to water, just bring your filter. Ground fires are not allowed in the back country but the dogs are. There are several fire pits in the car camping area and all the hook ups needed for the RV. I would suggest you bring everything you need (including Fire wood) because there is only a small corners store near the park and it’s almost a 45 min drive to the nearest “real” store. Plenty of trees for hammock campers and no shortage of views.
Hike the East Trail at Lost Maples
One of my favorite places. Some nice springs as well
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Hike Lost Maples East And West Canyon
The Lost Maples East and West Canyon trail is an 11.30 mile out-and-back hike located in Lost Maples State Park, right outside of Vanderpool, Texas. The trail provides scenic overlooks, beautiful maple trees, and an abundance of nature. The trail, along with the park, is most known for its beautiful colors during the falls, when the foliage changes to shades of oranges and reds. The trail is hi...
Hike Lost Maples Flats
Start the route by walking back to picnic ground entrance, crossing Can Creek where it flows into the Sabinal River, then going up Can Creek to the dam and "The Pond", reverse direction at The Pond and backtrack to the picnic ground startpoint. Then continue on to the East Trail trailhead and follow West Trail, including Maples Trail, to "The Grotto". At The Grotto, reverse direction and backtr...
Hike the Lost Maples West Trail Loop
The Lost Maples West Trail Loop is a 7 mile loop hike that loops around the west portion of Lost Maples State Park. This trail is mostly shaded and offers gorgeous views and scenic overlooks. There are areas for swimming, if desired. Please be advised that there are steep areas and challenging inclines, though not as steep as the East Trail.  There are primitive areas and bathrooms available. ...
Hike the Lost Maples Extra Loop Trail
The Lost Maples Extra Loop Trail is 7.1 loop hike that loops around the majority of the park. It is highly trafficked and offers stunning views of the Texas Hill Country landscape. Please be advised that there are several challenging inclines and steep portions of the trail, so hiking shoes and poles are recommended. The best and most popular time to visit and hike this trail is during the fall...
Primitive Camp at Lost Maples State Natural Area
Start at the day use overflow parking lot, there is a picnic area and a paved road will lead you to the trailhead for the  East and West Trail Loops. Continue along, following the signs to the West Trail Loop. You'll come across little river crossings, but much of the trail is rocky with a nice green canopy above. Depending on the season, you'll see the colors change in the leaves. It's quite b...
Camp out at Four Sisters Ranch Cabin
If you're looking for a beautiful secluded cabin to camp in the Texas Hill Country make sure to check out Four Sisters Ranch Cabin. Located near Vanderpool and Utopia, this cabin is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. The landowners are gracious hosts that bake banana nut bread for you and drive you around the acres of their land to show the best hiking and adventuring spots. They have bea...