The Popular Hill Country of Texas
Texas is a very huge state, and as such, has a vast — if not complete — assortment of topography. From rugged mountains to beaches and a lot in between, you can come across it in Texas, including the gorgeous "hill country." The green rolling hills in the middle part of the state don't instantly come to mind when you think about Texas, but the area definitely deserves some attention for its magnificence and tradition.
The hill country is probably one of the greatest regions in the state to hike, ride bikes, or just hang out. The assortment of lush foliage and the occasional granite outcropping make it a wonderful environment for sightseeing. One of the most notable landmarks in this piece of the state is Enchanted Rock, a large, pink granite mountain that can be observed for quite some distance. This natural monument is now in the middle of a park listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a fantastic place for hiking and picnicking.
For those who enjoy hiking and scenery, Lake Georgetown is a leading vacation spot. The lake is pretty much fully surrounded by a hiking trail, making it one of the longest in the state. It is not an easy hike, as the terrain is rocky and un-level. But for those who can deal with the trails, there are brilliant views of the lake waiting at different points along the way. Cactus and cedar trees border the trails, and limestone boulders appear to pop up out of nowhere from time to time.
One more attraction for outdoor lovers is the area's latest park, Berry Springs Park and Preserve. This park is set up to accommodate walkers of all skill levels, with a main paved path fronting the park, and unpaved side trails and cross-paths along the way to entice the more seasoned walker. The main pathway heads both east and west from the parking lot, with "turnarounds" at each end for those who want a workout without the excitement. At each of these turnarounds, though, are a sequence of unpaved paths and trails that extend on and traverse the park.
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