River Bottom Hike

2-6-16:  David and I took a 7 mile hike today at South Llano River State Park.  From the campground, we headed down the trail along the road to the crossing, then west along the river on the sp property. Did this stretch first because the rest of the trails wouldn't be open until 10:00 a.m. due to the turkey roost times.   Then we headed back east along the river and into the bottoms.

The bottomland represents one the most substantial and oldest winter turkey roosts in the central part of the state.  Observation blinds are provided to offer a glimpse of the turkeys moving to and from the roost.

We never get tired of looking at the South Llano River.

the crossing - where we usually see kingfishers and herons

this is one of the first things guests see as they enter the sp

the rock formations in the water were probably created by or for the tubers and kayakers

egret

kinda looks like a snowman

these wildlife observation blinds are through the sp

when the sp was private ranchland, up to 75,000 gallons of pecans per year were harvested from this grove

old sycamore tree in the center

see the little black puppy?  

Several folks spotted the little black pup throughout the park today and tried to catch it.  It wouldn't have anything to do with any of us.  It ran wide open and stayed on the trails. It was not to be seen again after today. Tonight the temps dropped down into the 20's.

twisted

the scenic overlook from below

Gadwall -- see the black butt?

We've been able to explore most of the park since we've been here. Either by hiking or riding the park's gator.  So blessed.

Much love,

The Rafters: Tom, Jenny, and Jake