Opt Outside: Finding Hidden Treasures in the Texas Summer TERRI FULLERTON Our first summer in Texas scorched my desire
The hiking trails meander up and down
to hike and camp in the Lone Star State. I
rugged terrain with juniper, desert grass, and
know this is harsh to Texans but we moved
fragrant shrubs. You will need lots of water,
from Colorado, so let’s just call it summer
sunscreen, snacks, and good hiking shoes.
shock. In addition to hiking, we love the stargazing. But our love for the outdoors, summers off,
Since it is remote, there is very little light
and desire to discover treasures in our new
pollution. On Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
state was a rewarding challenge. Looking
evenings, the McDonald Observatory (12 miles
back, I see the value of enjoying the outdoors
away) opens for Twilight and Star Parties.
together. It builds respect for our natural
Tickets sell out in advance, so plan to buy
world, stimulates curiosity, and helps us
them ahead of time. Telescopes are available
reconnect with one another.
to view constellations and planets. You can even see the rings around Saturn.
Opting outside empowers us as we choose to unplug from our fast-paced, technology-
If you need to recapture childlike wonder of
packed lifestyle. It refreshes us as we jump in
creation, I recommend going during a meteor
a swimming hole after a hike in the Texas
shower. The Southern Delta Aquarids shower
heat. It captures our wonder as we look up at
peaks July 29 to 30. The Perseids meteor
the countless pinholes of light coming
shower is July 17 to August 24, peaking around
through the indigo canopy of night.
the 12th and 13th. The best time for viewing is after midnight, but I promise you will not be
Davis Mountains State Park
sleepy when you are sitting at the outdoor
This remote park in west Texas offers
zoom across the sky.
amphitheater watching emerald meteors
camping, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and stargazing. The campsites are well
If you want a refreshing way to cool off, drive
maintained and some come with water and
25 miles north to the oasis of Balmorhea State
electricity. For the non-tent tribe, there is
Park. It has one of the largest spring-fed pools
Indian Lodge, a full service hotel, including a
in the world where 15 million gallons of water
swimming pool. I recommend the Skyline
gush from the springs. The pool is open daily
Drive for scenic views and spotting wildlife.
for swimming and scuba diving and reaches a
The area is known for its variety of birds, and
depth of 25 feet. The temperature is 72 to 76
the park has several places to enjoy avian
°F year-round.
behavior. LOVE OF DIXIE MAGAZINE
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SUMMER 2019
