Fall Color in Texas

It seems everybody knows about Vermont in the Fall. Having been raised in "The North" I am somewhat aware of what color in the fall is all about. However Sandy and I and Carroll and Marilyn Lenz went to New England several years ago - about 10 - and were literally dazzled by the color. That white church steeple sticking up over the trees in Stowe, Vermont is a memorable sight. Add to that, that one would need sun glasses to ward off the brilliance (only a slight exaggeration) was something I had never experienced even in Ohio or Pennsylvania. Probably the most glamorous display of natural color I had ever seen - no video enhancement required.

So to think that Texas has anything to rival that is, well, a stretch; or at least that would be the expectation. And not to appear to be one given to hyperbole, Vermont in the fall is still the most stupendous place to visit ever. However, Texas does have it's Fall Color Moment. And from the way the weather changes around here, moment may be the most apt description.

My good buddy Brabbinger (if you don't know who that is, it's the dog in the picture with the family on Facebook...) and I took a day trip to Texas Lost Maples Natural Area yesterday. Texas Natives; Quiz -- where is Lost Maples? I didn't think you would know that... For those of you who failed the quiz - Lost Maples is in the Texas Hill Country between Vanderpool and nowhere. Heading south on Texas Highway 16 after you leave Fredericksburg and Kerrville, you hit about 30 miles of bad road till you reach Vanderpool. Don't blink or you will miss it. Not that the road isn't well maintained, but there isn't a straight place over 100 yards long on Highway 16 in that 30 mile stretch. Up and down the Texas Hill Country at a blazing 35 MPH. And if you decide to go back to Fredericksburg via Highway 178 and 39 - well, it's the same situation. But at least Ranch Road 39 parallels the Guadeloupe River and has some real scenic spots. Probably another good road tiip but that will be another story. However, curves notwithstanding we got there safe and sound, so back to Texas Color.

Now lets see - what words did I use about Vermont - stupendous, glamorous, brilliance, dazzling - yes those words are appropriate in Texas but only in as applies to a very limited statistical sampling. The big difference is that in Texas there is a tree here and there of brilliant reds and yellows, punctuated by occasional cacti or cedar breaks. If you are observant of little things, you will find beds of leaves strewn on the ground among the rocks of vibrant hues of yellow, red, purple and of course green and brown. It's a beautiful sight and makes for some really great pictures. But in Vermont there will be literally acres and acres - dare I say square miles of sugar maples in their full array of fall brilliance. The hillsides are covered from top to bottom. Add to that the classic fleecy white clouds or an occasional dusting of white snow and there is a picture suitable for framing. Here in Texas there are some major differences. Our Texas Maples are very selective where they will choose to be born and live. (And they don't give out with the sweet sap for maple syrup - I wonder if they would?) Only one or two here and there or a small grove of the really old trees. Those spots are really peaceful and beautiful. A tree here and there but still truly an outstanding example of Fall's Colors.

And then there is the weather. Whereas here you may need to shed several layers of clothing as the day progresses, in New England just the opposite is true. On a subsequent New England visit in March, a "Spring Trip", the temperature dipped to minus 10 so there is a noted difference.

The point I wish to make is that most people would not even think of finding Fall Color in Texas but that would be a major error of judgment. We have color! Some years are better than others just as in New England, and this year was one of the best in recent memory but there is always some color... So if you go for the color you will not be disappointed. And while this article does not speak officially for the Texas Department of Tourism, at least that is my opinion.

There are also other benefits of such a trip. Although one cannot "drive to the color" here, (like you can in New England) even though there are several beautiful trees in the picnic area adjacent to the East Trail Parking, the major color must be hiked-in to see. But Brabby and I didn't get to the end of the East Trail/Maples Trail trail. That is due to poor planning for the trip itself. If you go camping, take some food - DUH!

As for the hike, take plenty of water, wear good hiking shoes it is real rocky and has (I am told) some fairly adventuresome hills to climb on the trails, maybe a day pack and some snacks would be a good idea. In fact, if you are into camping, a couple of days set aside to go for multiple hikes since there are several trails would probably be a really great family outing. And for the record, I don't know of any hotels, motels B&B, etc in the area so camping is probably the only option. That is unless you were to stay in Kerrville - that would be an option and then drive to the park -- but I digress...

So what is the point of all this? The color was wonderful as was the exhilaration of the great outdoors. I love being out where I can see for more than the 40 feet from my back porch to the privacy fence. And even with the crowds - this was on a non-holiday Monday - the parking lot was full - a line of cars to get in - lines at the restrooms at the entrance - it is worth the hike and the drive to get there.

So here is the commercial - if any of those of you reading this (lets see - three people) have never visited Lost Maples, it would be a great weekend or mid-week two or three day trip. Check the Star-Telegram or Texas Parks and Wildlife Web Site to find out when the best color is showing. You and the family would enjoy it and who knows, you may get some good pix out of it too. Brabby is planning a Photo Essay of his trip as soon as he recuperates from the long drive. He put about 650 miles on the Van Monday. He told me he will post it on Facebook. Thanks for reading... Terry