A spectacular fall foliage destination in the Texas Hill Country, where Uvalde bigtooth maples turn brilliant red and gold in late October and November—rare in Texas.
Lost Maples State Natural Area protects 2,208 acres along the Sabinal River Canyon in Bandera County, approximately 65 miles north of Uvalde in the Texas Hill Country. The park takes its name from a relict population of Uvalde bigtooth maple trees—native to the mountainous regions of Mexico and barely found in Texas—that survived the end of the last ice age by sheltering in the protected limestone canyon environment. Each fall, typically from late October through mid-November, these maples turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow against the green cedar and live oak backdrop, producing the most dramatic fall foliage display in Texas.
The park's trail system centers on the East and West Loop Trails, which together create a 10.5-mile circuit through the canyon along the Sabinal River. The main concentration of maple groves is accessible via the East Loop in the first two to three miles from the trailhead—a manageable section for visitors who cannot complete the full loop. The Sabinal River runs clear over limestone gravel through the canyon bottom, with swimming holes accessible by trail in spring and early summer. The Upper East Loop climbs to canyon rim views overlooking the maple groves and surrounding Hill Country plateau.
Outside of fall foliage season, Lost Maples offers excellent year-round birding—the canyon is a wintering habitat for the golden-cheeked warbler and a migration corridor for dozens of species. Spring wildflowers in the canyon are exceptional, and the clear spring-fed Sabinal River is ideal for wading and wildlife observation. The park is one of the more isolated natural areas in the Texas Hill Country, giving it a genuine backcountry feel even on its developed trails.
Peak fall color weekends in late October and early November are among the most heavily reserved periods in the entire Texas state park system. Timed-entry day-use reservations open 30 days in advance and are routinely claimed within hours of release. Camping reservations follow the same competitive system.
Good to know
- Best for
- hikers, photographers, fall foliage seekers
Location
29.8155, -99.5708 View on map
Highlights
- Uvalde bigtooth maple groves producing Texas's most dramatic fall foliage—late October through mid-November
- East and West Loop Trails (10.5-mile circuit) through Sabinal River Canyon to canyon rim views
- Spring-fed Sabinal River swimming holes accessible by trail in the canyon bottom
- Prime Hill Country birding: golden-cheeked warbler wintering habitat and fall migration corridor
- One of the most isolated and authentic canyon environments in the Texas Hill Country
Tips for visiting
- Timed-entry reservations for fall color weekends (late October–November) open 30 days in advance and sell out within hours—set a calendar reminder
- Check the TPWD color report on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website before driving—peak color typically lasts only two to three weeks
- Bring plenty of water; no concession services exist inside the park
- The Upper East Loop canyon rim sections involve significant elevation gain—allow extra time
- Spring visits (March–April) offer wildflowers and river swimming without the reservation pressure of fall
When to visit
Late October through mid-November for peak fall foliage is the primary draw. Spring (March–May) is the second-best season for wildflowers and river swimming. Avoid July and August when heat, reduced water in the Sabinal River, and reservation pressure make conditions less favorable.
Accessibility
Lost Maples has an accessible visitor center and restrooms at the main trailhead. The main trails are unpaved and rocky with uneven terrain, particularly in canyon areas, making them unsuitable for wheelchairs. A short paved section near the parking area provides limited views of the surrounding landscape for visitors with mobility limitations.
Frequently asked questions
When does fall foliage peak at Lost Maples?
Peak color typically occurs from late October through the first or second week of November, though timing varies by up to two weeks depending on temperature and rainfall. The Texas Parks and Wildlife website posts a weekly color report starting in October.
Is Lost Maples open year-round?
Yes. The park is open daily year-round. Entry reservations are required; walk-in entry is not guaranteed during peak periods. Off-season visits in winter and early spring offer solitude and the possibility of seeing the maple trees' stark winter silhouette in the canyon.
How long does hiking Lost Maples take?
The full 10.5-mile East and West Loop circuit takes 4–6 hours for a fit adult. The first two miles of the East Loop reach the primary maple groves and take about 1.5 hours round trip—a viable option for casual visitors or those with limited time.