For views that are unbeatable, and not to mention a great time, consider hiking up Old Baldy in Wimberley! This short (roughly .53 miles) but steep hike rewards you with a bird’s eye view of the Frio River Canyon. Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy what’s considered Wimberley’s newest city park which sits on 4.3 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country land, with a unique history and appeal unlike any other.
Located at 33 LaToya Circle, almost 2.5 miles from the Square in Downtown Wimberley, Old Baldy Park was a popular piece of publicly used land that was listed for sale in 2014. Due to the potential risk of development or the closing of the property to public use, local residents formed the “Save Old Baldy Foundation.” Within one year, the foundation had raised enough money to help the City of Wimberley purchase the property, in order that those of all ages could enjoy and experience Old Baldy for years to come. At that time, it was established as Old Baldy Park, and it includes 218 rock steps that produce 360-degree views of the Wimberley valley as the reward for their climb.
The actual hike up Old Baldy Trail is listed by Alltrails.com as being “good for all skill levels.” Principally used for nature trips and hiking, reviews by those who have climbed it are rated well. “Loved this little climb… The view is worth it. We got to see some baby deer, as well,” said one commenter. “It’s a great little quick workout to the top (all stairs) where you get some nice 360° views of the Wimberley valley. I like it best around sunrise or sunset because it’s not as hot,” another noted.
Photo: @kayp via Twenty20
Those who have made the climb up the irregular steps to the top of Old Baldy have expressed both a sigh of relief as well as a gasp of awe at the amazing views. The city of Wimberley is directly below, and a great green expanse of rolling hills is set in the background. On a semi-cloudy day, only the wind can be heard, and the gusts carry out over the valley beyond. It’s a peaceful getaway just mere minutes from civilization, and it offers incomparable vistas. In today’s fast-paced world, it also lends you a sort of peace that can be hard to find. Once home to settlers of the Texas Hill Country, prospectors, and even desperados, Old Baldy was originally part of Twin Sisters Ranch, which was named for the identical hills that rise from the Wimberley Valley. Originally named Mt. Edith in the early 1900s (for one of the daughters from Twin Sisters Ranch,) some of the history of the area has been lost over time, but Wimberley residents and visitors continue to add new memories on the sparse but beautiful hilltop.
