How to Hike the Pace Bend Park Cliffs

Pace Bend Park, nestled along the scenic Colorado River in Texas, is home to some of the most dramatic and lesser-known cliff formations in the Lone Star State. While many visitors flock to the park for swimming, fishing, and camping, few realize the extraordinary hiking opportunities presented by its towering limestone cliffs. Hiking the Pace Bend Park Cliffs offers more than just physical exercise—it delivers panoramic views of river valleys, unique geological formations, and a profound sense of solitude rarely found in state parks with higher foot traffic. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for safely and successfully hiking the cliffs at Pace Bend Park, whether you're a seasoned trail enthusiast or a first-time adventurer seeking a meaningful outdoor experience.

The cliffs of Pace Bend Park are not marked by official signage or maintained trails like those in national parks. This lack of formal infrastructure is both a challenge and a gift: it preserves the raw, unspoiled character of the landscape but demands greater preparation, awareness, and respect from hikers. Understanding how to navigate these cliffs responsibly ensures your safety, protects the fragile ecosystem, and honors the cultural and geological heritage of the region. This guide is designed to transform uncertainty into confidence, equipping you with the knowledge to turn a risky endeavor into a rewarding expedition.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Route in Advance

Before setting foot on any trail at Pace Bend Park, you must conduct thorough research. Unlike curated hiking paths, the cliffs lack official trail markers. Begin by reviewing topographic maps from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) resources. Focus on the 7.5-minute quadrangle map for “Bastrop, TX” and “Bastrop East, TX,” which detail elevation contours and cliff edges.

Identify your intended starting point. Most hikers begin at the main park entrance near the boat ramp or the designated camping area off FM 2094. From there, aim for the ridge line that runs parallel to the river’s western bank. Use GPS coordinates to mark key waypoints: the base of the main cliff face (approximately 30.0472° N, 97.3405° W), the eastern overlook (30.0491° N, 97.3378° W), and the return junction near the old fire road.

Plan your route as a loop if possible. A common and safe loop involves ascending via the north-facing slope, traversing the ridge, descending via the southeast escarpment, and returning via the fire road. Avoid attempting linear out-and-back hikes unless you have a support team and emergency protocol in place.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year and Day

Timing is critical when hiking the Pace Bend Park Cliffs. The region experiences extreme summer heat, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F (38°C) between June and August. These conditions significantly increase the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration. The ideal hiking window is between late October and early April, when daytime temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F (10°C–24°C).

Begin your hike no later than 8:00 AM. Morning light provides better visibility of rock textures and loose shale, reducing the chance of missteps. As the sun climbs, shadows vanish, making it harder to discern elevation changes and hidden crevices. Additionally, afternoon thunderstorms are common in spring and early summer, and cliff edges become dangerously slick when wet. Never hike during or immediately after rainfall.

3. Pack Essential Gear and Clothing

Proper gear can mean the difference between a memorable hike and a life-threatening incident. Here is a non-negotiable checklist:

• Sturdy hiking boots with aggressive tread and ankle support—avoid trail runners or sneakers.
• Rock climbing gloves for gripping loose limestone and stabilizing on steep sections.
• Backpack with at least 3 liters of water—more if hiking in warmer months. Electrolyte tablets are recommended.
• High-protein snacks (nuts, jerky, energy bars) to maintain stamina on multi-hour hikes.
• Topographic map and compass—GPS devices can fail or lose signal in deep canyons.
• First aid kit including blister treatment, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and a tourniquet.
• Headlamp with extra batteries—even if you plan to finish before dark, delays are common.
• Emergency whistle and signal mirror—essential if you become stranded or injured.
• Lightweight rain shell—even in dry seasons, sudden microbursts occur.

Wear moisture-wicking, long-sleeve clothing to protect against sun exposure and poison ivy, which grows abundantly along cliff edges. Avoid dark colors—they absorb heat. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are also critical.

4. Enter the Park and Reach the Cliff Base

Arrive at Pace Bend Park before 9:00 AM to secure parking near the main boat ramp. Pay the day-use fee at the kiosk or via the TPWD mobile app. Walk toward the river’s western bank, following the dirt path that runs parallel to the shoreline. After approximately 0.7 miles, you’ll pass a cluster of large cedar trees and a faded metal sign indicating “Old Fire Road.” Do not follow the road—it leads away from the cliffs.

Instead, veer left into the brush. Look for a faint, natural path worn into the earth by previous hikers and wildlife. This is your ascent corridor. The terrain here is steep and littered with loose limestone fragments. Use your hands for balance. Do not rush—this section is where most slips occur.

As you climb, watch for red-colored rock outcrops. These are iron-rich strata that indicate you’re approaching the cliff’s base. Once you reach the ledge, pause. Take in the view. The Colorado River curves below like a ribbon of glass, and the cliffs rise vertically for over 150 feet. This is your launch point for the ridge traverse.

5. Navigate the Ridge Traverse

The ridge between the main cliff and the eastern overlook is the most exposed and technically demanding section. The path is narrow—often no wider than 18 inches—and bordered by steep drop-offs on both sides. Proceed with extreme caution. Use the “three points of contact” rule: always have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with stable rock.

Look for natural handholds: moss-covered ledges, embedded roots, and horizontal fissures in the limestone. Avoid pulling on brittle rock or loose gravel. If a section feels unstable, retreat and re-route. There is no shame in turning back.

Watch for wildlife. Rattlesnakes, particularly the Western Diamondback, often sun themselves on warm rock surfaces. Give them space—do not attempt to move or provoke them. If you hear a rattle, freeze, locate the source, and slowly back away.

Take breaks every 20–30 minutes. Hydrate, eat a snack, and re-evaluate your route. The ridge is not a race. The goal is to reach the overlook safely, not quickly.

6. Reach the Eastern Overlook and Document Your Experience

The eastern overlook is the crown jewel of the hike. Here, the cliff drops abruptly into a deep river bend, offering a 270-degree panorama. On clear days, you can see the distant silhouette of the Bastrop State Park pine forest and the faint glint of Highway 21.

Use this vantage point to rest, eat, and photograph the landscape. Do not climb beyond the marked boundary of the overlook. The rock here is weathered and unstable. Many accidents occur when hikers venture too close to the edge for the “perfect shot.”

If you have a drone, now is the time to launch it legally. Texas state parks permit drone use in non-wildlife zones, but always check current TPWD regulations before flight. Never fly over people or near cliff edges without clear visibility.

7. Descend Safely and Return to the Park Entrance

Descending the cliffs is more dangerous than ascending. Fatigue, reduced visibility, and loose scree increase the risk of falls. Use the designated descent route: follow the ridge south for 400 feet until you see a series of large, flat limestone slabs angled downward. This is the only safe descent path.

Face the cliff as you descend. Use your hands and feet in tandem. Test each foothold before committing your weight. If you feel unstable, sit and slide down slowly on your backside—this is safer than trying to “step” down steep, crumbly slopes.

Once at the bottom, retrace your steps along the fire road. It’s a gentle 1.2-mile walk back to the parking area. Use this time to reflect, hydrate fully, and check for ticks or poison ivy contact. Wash your boots before returning to your vehicle to prevent spreading invasive plant seeds.

Best Practices

Always Hike with a Partner

Never attempt the Pace Bend Park Cliffs alone. Even experienced hikers can suffer sudden injuries—a twisted ankle, a fall, or a heat-related episode. A partner can call for help, administer first aid, or stay with you while you seek assistance. If you must hike solo, leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted contact, including your expected return time and GPS coordinates.

Leave No Trace Principles

Pace Bend Park is part of a sensitive riparian ecosystem. Follow Leave No Trace ethics rigorously:

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers and biodegradable items like fruit peels.
• Do not carve into rock or remove natural artifacts—limestone formations are protected under Texas state law.
• Use established campsites or designated rest areas. Avoid trampling native grasses and wildflowers.
• Use a portable toilet or bury human waste at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.

These practices preserve the park’s natural beauty and ensure future generations can enjoy the same experience.

Respect Wildlife and Cultural Heritage

The cliffs and surrounding land are home to native species including the Texas horned lizard, wild turkey, and migratory raptors. Do not feed animals or attempt to photograph them too closely. The area also contains ancient Native American petroglyphs and stone tool fragments. These are protected archaeological resources. Do not touch, move, or photograph them without official permission from TPWD.

Monitor Weather and River Conditions

Flash flooding is a real threat. Even if it’s not raining at the park, heavy rainfall upstream can cause the Colorado River to rise rapidly. Check the USGS river gauge for the Colorado River at Bastrop (station 08162500) before your hike. If the river is above 12 feet, postpone your trip. High water levels increase humidity, reduce visibility, and create dangerous currents near cliff bases.

Know Your Limits

Hiking the Pace Bend Park Cliffs is not a beginner-friendly trail. It requires moderate to advanced physical fitness, mental focus, and terrain awareness. If you have vertigo, heart conditions, or mobility limitations, consider viewing the cliffs from the river via kayak or from the designated overlook at the park’s visitor center. There is no shame in choosing safety over adventure.

Tools and Resources

Topographic Maps and Digital Tools

Accurate navigation is essential. Use these trusted tools:

• USGS TopoView – Free access to historical and current topographic maps: topoview.usgs.gov
• AllTrails Pro – User-submitted trail logs and GPS tracks (search “Pace Bend Park Cliff Traverse”)
• Gaia GPS – Offline map downloads with satellite overlay; ideal for areas without cell service
• TPWD Interactive Map – Official park boundaries and regulations: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pace-bend

Recommended Gear Brands

Not all gear is created equal. These brands are trusted by experienced Texas hikers:

• La Sportiva – Climbing boots with superior grip on limestone
• Osprey – Lightweight, ventilated backpacks with hydration compatibility
• Outdoor Research – Weather-resistant gloves with touchscreen fingertips
• CamelBak – Insulated hydration bladders with anti-siphon valves
• Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Satellite communicator with SOS and real-time tracking

Local Hiking Communities and Guides

Connect with experienced locals for real-time advice:

• Texas Hiking Club – Facebook group with over 12,000 members sharing trail updates and safety tips
• Outdoorsy Austin – Monthly meetups for cliff and river trail enthusiasts
• TPWD Volunteer Rangers – Offer free weekend trail briefings during peak seasons

Emergency Contacts and Resources

In case of emergency, know these numbers:

• TPWD Park Office – (512) 389-8910
• Bastrop County Emergency Services – 911
• Search and Rescue (SAR) – Texas A&M Forest Service – (936) 639-8100

Always carry a fully charged phone, but assume no signal. Use satellite communicators for reliable emergency transmission.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Unprepared Hiker

In March 2022, a 28-year-old solo hiker attempted the cliffs wearing running shoes and carrying only a water bottle. He slipped on loose shale near the ridge, twisting his ankle. Without a phone signal or emergency device, he spent 14 hours stranded before being found by a park ranger conducting a routine patrol. He suffered a Grade 2 sprain and required helicopter evacuation. His story underscores the danger of underestimating the terrain.

Case Study 2: The Prepared Family

In November 2023, a family of four—parents and two teenage children—completed the hike using GPS tracks downloaded from AllTrails, full hydration packs, and climbing gloves. They started at 7:30 AM, took breaks at the ridge and overlook, and returned by 3:00 PM. They documented their journey with photos and shared their experience in a local outdoor blog. Their preparation allowed them to enjoy the hike safely and inspire others.

Case Study 3: The Conservation Volunteer

A member of the Texas Natural Heritage Association led a group of 12 volunteers on a cliff-edge litter clean-up in January 2023. They removed over 40 pounds of trash, including plastic bottles, food containers, and discarded fishing line. Their work led to the installation of two new trash bins at the park’s main trailhead and increased ranger patrols on weekends.

Case Study 4: The Drone Photographer

In April 2021, a professional photographer flew a drone over the cliffs without checking TPWD regulations. He was fined $500 for violating federal airspace rules near state parks and banned from the park for one year. His footage, though stunning, was never published due to legal complications. Always verify drone laws before flight.

FAQs

Is it legal to hike the cliffs at Pace Bend Park?

Yes, hiking the cliffs is permitted, but there are no official trails. You are responsible for your safety and must follow all state park rules. Do not climb on protected archaeological sites or disturb wildlife.

How long does the hike take?

Most hikers complete the full loop in 5 to 7 hours, including breaks. Experienced hikers may finish in 4 hours. Allow extra time if you’re photographing, resting, or navigating slowly.

Are there restrooms at the cliff area?

No. The nearest restrooms are at the main park entrance and near the boat ramp. Plan accordingly.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are allowed in Pace Bend Park but must be leashed at all times. Due to the steep, rocky terrain and potential wildlife encounters, dogs are not recommended for the cliff hike. Many hikers leave pets in the car with water and shade.

Is there cell service on the cliffs?

Very little. Verizon may have intermittent signal at the overlook, but AT&T and T-Mobile rarely work. Rely on offline maps and satellite devices.

What should I do if I see someone in distress?

Do not attempt a rescue unless you are trained. Call 911 immediately. Provide your GPS coordinates and describe the situation. Stay with the person if safe to do so, but prioritize your own safety.

Are there guided tours available?

As of 2024, no official guided tours operate on the cliffs. However, some private outdoor educators offer custom expeditions. Contact the Texas Outdoor Education Association for referrals.

Can I camp near the cliffs?

No. Camping is only permitted in designated areas within the park. Overnight stays on the cliff edge are prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.

What’s the best season to hike?

October through March offers the safest conditions. Avoid summer months due to extreme heat and thunderstorms.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Only for older children (ages 12+) with strong physical coordination and experience on uneven terrain. Always keep children within arm’s reach on narrow sections.

Conclusion

Hiking the Pace Bend Park Cliffs is not merely an activity—it is an immersion into the raw, unfiltered beauty of Texas’s natural landscape. It demands preparation, humility, and respect. Unlike curated trails that lead you by the hand, these cliffs challenge you to read the land, trust your instincts, and move with intention. The reward is not just a photograph or a badge of honor, but a deeper connection to the earth beneath your feet and the sky above your head.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—planning your route, packing wisely, respecting wildlife, and knowing your limits—you transform a potentially dangerous excursion into a meaningful, memorable journey. The cliffs do not forgive carelessness, but they generously reward those who approach them with reverence.

As you stand on the eastern overlook, wind brushing your face and the river winding far below, you’ll understand why this place endures—not as a destination on a map, but as a sanctuary for those willing to earn its view. Hike wisely. Leave no trace. And carry the silence of these cliffs with you long after you return to the road.