More than 60 people celebrated the grand opening on National Trails Day (June 2) and was a smashing success. Three trail tours, led by Hill Country Conservancy staff, George Cofer, Butch Smith, Tim Eischen, & Clark Hancock, detailed the herculean efforts it took to make this new section of the VCT happen.

 

Meanwhile our National Trails Day volunteers braved the heat to plant a new butterfly garden and remove invasive species along the route. Hanna Holt made the world a more colorful place one cheek at a time with bright face paints for the kids and Top Taco provided much-needed sustenance for attendees.

 

The Deer Park Trailhead is located near the Primrose School* on Davis Lane and heads north about ½ mile. The trail features a 10-foot wide, ADA accessible trail surface, a newly planted butterfly garden – complete with Milkweed & Lantana, and benches & picnic tables for guests to rest and recharge. Now our neighbors in the Deer Park Neighborhood and people from all over the city can come out for a shady stroll, fun bike ride, or a walk with their dog.

 

Trails like the VCT make our communities more livable by providing an opportunity for physical activity to improve fitness and mental health. The next section, headed north towards Dick Nichols Park, is still under construction by our partners at the City of Austin. Soon, both sections of trail will connect to the current trailhead at Hwy 290 & Brodie Ln.

 

*Please note: Parking at the Primrose School for the Violet Crown Trail is not permitted.