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Forest Bathing Hike at Westcave Preserve Outside of Austin, TX

  • West Cave Outdoor Discovery Center 24814 Hamilton Pool Road Round Mountain, TX, 78663 United States (map)
Photo of the grotto at Wescave Nature Preserve featuring a pool of water and green ferns and rocks surrounding it

Views from Westcave Nature Preserve Grotto taken by Cultured Forest while Forest Bathing

Join Cultured Forest for an introduction to guided Forest Bathing at the enchanting Westcave Preserve near Austin, TX. This session will be led by our Founder Brooke Mellen who has been featured in Vogue and WSJ Magazine. She trained with Dr. Qing Li and certified in Forest Medicine in Japan.

This will be an hour and half long guided Forest Bathing hike from an arid savanna through a limestone crevice down a 100-foot staircase into a sheltered canyon of lush plant life. You will pause for reflection at the head of the canyon where water falls along a stunning 40-foot cliff that stands replenishing the grotto. A tea ceremony will be held in the award-winning Environmental Learning Center to wrap up your experience.

Forest Bathing is based on a Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku that involves connecting with nature by “Bathing in the Forest Atmosphere”. Studies show time in nature lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity and reduces stress. In this activity, you will indulge with fellow nature appreciators in relaxing meditation and forest therapy in a guided outdoor class. Plan to appreciate the trees and natural settings of the park, while learning activities that allow you to better connect with nature through mindfulness, even in Urban settings. Leave feeling centered, connected and more at peace.

Please wear comfortable shoes with traction and be prepared to walk down into and back up from the canyon on an inclining rock trail with a rope for support along the path. We recommend you dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.

Note:

  • This event is for ages 13 years old and up.

  • Access to the canyon and cave is by guided tour only.

  • All hikes are weather permitting.

  • No pets are allowed even if left in the vehicle.

This event cost is $55, and a large portion of proceeds go to supporting the educational programing at Westcave.

Click on the link below to register via Westcave’s site.

REGISTER HERE: WESTCAVE EVENT SITE

Watch a recap of a recent Winter Forest Bathing Hike with Cultured Forest at Westcave Nature Preserve near Austin, TX