Spring Field Trip

The Austin Geological Society's Spring Field Trip was held on Saturday, April 5, 2003. The trip destination was Shield Ranch, which comprises 4,668.5 acres of classic Hill Country terrain, straddling Barton Creek west of State Highway 71 and north of U.S. Highway 290. Shield Ranch is notable for its long history of environmental stewardship, while operating as a working cattle ranch. And in 1999, more than two-thirds of ranch acreage was conveyed to a conservation easement, under the auspices of the Texas Nature Conservancy.

On this field trip, this ranch was visited by van, viewing soils and bedrock, flora and fauna, upland landforms and a spectacular segment of Barton Creek. Key natural areas were viewed from the vehicles and on foot (including a 3 to 4-mile walk).

The field trip guidebook is available for purchase through the office of Publication Sales.

The trail walk offered good views of rocky Hill Country terrain as well as creek settings and unique archeological sites. (Photo courtesy Scott Tinker)

Participants discuss landscape and soils along trail. (Photo courtesy Scott Tinker)

View of restored 1870s cabin on terrace of Rocky Creek. (Photo courtesy Scott Tinker)

Lunch at restored 1870s cabin. (Photo courtesy Scott Tinker)