Stillhouse Hollow Nature Preserve — Attraction in Austin

We went and did this in between doctors appointments because the trail is a short one. Starts out a typical Hill Country trail with scrub oaks and junipers. There's a cave/hole that is fenced off all but two times a year where the city opens the gates so people can view the "hole" that looks like a well. There's a nice deck that overlooks the creek that is fed from the spring. Lots of walnut trees near the deck. Entrance is a trick to find as it's at the end of a short residential street and not well marked.best use Google Maps. We didn't even see a sign at any of the streets that lead to to entrance. Residential development all sides except as you approach the observation deck but there's enough canopy and trees to keep most from view. Trail barely descends until about a quarter mile from the deck and then is only a moderate incline down then back up. Could occupy an hour if you're there to observe but only 15 minutes if you're there...

There is a crazy man who who's often found in the park, and if you bring your pet in there - he will EAT YOUR PET. Especially if it is a DOG and especially especially if it is a cat. Especially if it is not on a leash, because there are endangered species that can also eat your dog or cat. So that is why the sign in the park says that no pets are allowed in the park. Also because the park needs protection from house-builders and also our planet needs our protection and we should treat the planet like a member of our family, even a son...

This small nature preserve nestled in a residential neighborhood in Northwest Austin has a single trail about three quarters of a mile in length ending in a small observation platform overlooking the Barrow Preserve. While not a major hike it's paved roads are friendly for kids and family and it's a nice easy and mostly shaded walk for folks of all capabilities. While there are other recreational areas in Austin with more to do an see this small preserve is a great place to wander at your own...