10 incredible natural wonders in Texas

Deep below the surface of the Hill Country, the Cascade Caverns were discovered by the Lipan Apache people in the 1700s, eventually opening to the public in 1932. It’s a ‘living cave’ covered with dripstone and flowstone formations, so you’ll need to safely explore by group tour. Temperatures here hover at 20 degrees Celsius year-round, making it a great way to beat the summer heat.

To see a spectacle take a trip to Devil’s Sinkhole in Rocksprings, a cavern that drops 140 feet down below. Here, three million Mexican free-tailed bats reside in what’s one of the largest colonies in the entire state. They swarm out during warm evenings (late Spring to early autumn) to search for food, resulting in a jaw-dropping dance of dots against Texas’ famous orange sunset.

Want to know how young Texans stay cool during the summer holidays? They go tubing. Translation: riding a donut inflatable with a YETI tumbler filled with their chosen beverage. The San Marcos River is the best spot to tube when temperatures soar, and these crystal-clear springs stay at 22.2 degrees all year long. This fully unique adventure is unlike anything you’ve experienced.

Work off that (delicious) local sausage with a hike in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, known for its giant pink granite dome that protrudes over the sprawling landscape. Panoramic views include that of the Hill Country, where delectable Texan wines are produced – therefore, it makes perfect sense for Chardonnay to be your hiking reward. Cheers to that!

If you’re chasing a waterfall, journey to Dripping Springs. There, Hamilton Creek spills out over dramatic limestone outcroppings to create a 50-foot waterfall plunging into a pool below. The flow never stops, but during dry times may come down to a trickle. Take time to observe the many species of native fish and birds that inhabit the waters and a surrounding area that flourishes with native plants.

To the east of Texas lies the enchanting Caddo Lake State Park. Here you’ll find a glittering 26,000-acre body of water, surrounded by bald cypress trees that are draped with Spanish moss. Paddle out and be mesmerized by them and try your hand at fishing — 70 different species are on offer.

East of El Paso is one of the lesser-known National Parks, meaning a trove of unspoiled wonders. Uncover fascinating examples of Permian-era (260 to 270 million years ago) geology, plus mountains, canyons, deserts, and dunes. Eight of the ten highest peaks are here, so strap on those hiking boots to reach a summit for sore eyes.

Spanning 66 miles of wild coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, Padre Island National Seashore is one of the most remote seashores and intact coastal prairie habitats in the country. The area is packed with wildlife, and through your binoculars, you’ll catch thousands of migrating birds in the sky and deer roaming the dunes.