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In case you’ve been hiding under a rock (or in one of the the local gorgeous underground caverns), you’re probably fully aware that Autumn is swiftly approaching the Hill Country! Every year, Texans anticipate the arrival of Fall with an unparalleled level of excitement. And can you blame us? When the temperatures drop and the Hill Country foliage bursts into fiery red and gold, we (understandably) freak out a little bit.
Image Courtesy of TexasHillCountry.com
A special sort of Autumn magic seems to blow in with that first glorious cold front, announcing the ripening of pumpkins, the turning of leaves, and the ever-anticipated switch from iced to hot coffee. And though this year’s lingering Summer temperatures may try their best to deny the imminent arrival of our favorite time of year, we know it’s just around the seasonal corner.
1. Try Wing Shooting at Joshua Creek Ranch
Image Courtesy of Joshua Creek Ranch
October 1st welcomed in the official beginning of wing shooting season! Thankfully, Boerne is home to the incredible hunter’s paradise that is Joshua Creek Ranch, recognized among the top wing shooting lodges in the world. Joshua Creek Ranch features quail and upland bird hunting, European-style driven pheasant shooting, decoy mallard duck hunting, and some of the finest seasonal dove hunting in south Texas. Hunters area allowed to choose from a variety of bird hunts or customize their own! The gorgeous natural terrain of the Texas Hill Country creates the perfect habitat for upland birds, and Joshua Creek’s commitment to excellence ensures an exceptional experience.
2. Hike the Cibolo Nature Center
There’s no better way to experience Fall than by heading straight into the heart of the natural landscape! Composed mostly of trees and woody plants, The Cibolo Nature Center (CNC) is a local 100-acre gem that features four distinct ecosystems and several miles of trails for your hiking and viewing pleasure. If you have kids or are interested in learning more about the nature of the season, don’t forget to check out the CNC’s “Mother Nature’s Storytime: Autumn” every third Wednesday of the month from 10:00-11:00am! The storytime will highlight the natural landscape and focus on the fluctuating of the season. The Cibolo Nature Center and Farm is a community that passionately believes Boerne’s brightest future is one lived in harmony with nature.
3. Take a Scenic Drive
Image Courtesy of WallDevil.com
With so much Hill Country landscape to see and so little time to do it, why not cruise your way through the scenery? Over the next few weeks, we recommend hopping in your car, putting on your favorite Fall playlist, and heading to the open road…”windows rolled down” optional, depending on the weather. We highly recommend the Boerne-Canyon Lake Loop and the Boerne-Comfort-Bandera Loop...both of which pass through a few more like-minded Hill Country towns!
4. Dig Into A Slice of Pie
Pre-game for Thanksgiving with a delicious slice of pie! Tootie Pie Co, a local Boerne gem, is currently serving up seasonal flavors like Snickerdoodle and Whiskey Pecan Pie. Besides these limited edition novelties, you can also pick up your classic favorites like buttermilk, chocolate, chocolate pecan, pecan, and apple!
5. Head to a Pumpkin Patch
As we all know, Fall is basically meaningless without a good pumpkin patch! Thankfully, the Boerne Pumpkin Patch is here to satisfy all your festive needs. Located across the street from Patrick Heath Public Library, this pumpkin patch practically begging you to throw on a scarf, slip on some comfy boots, and haul the kids out for this classic Autumn activity.
Note: For those who want a grander celebration, Pipe Creek Pumpkin Patch is just a 25-minute drive away! The site features hayrides, farm animals, pumpkin painting, photo-ops, kiddie barrel train, duck race, face painting, a snack bar, and space to stroll through thousands of growing Christmas trees!
6. Run the Turkey Trot
Hosted by the Boerne Family YMCA, the annual “Turkey Trot” will take place this November 18 at 8:00am at Boerne City Plaza. This scenic city run starts on the west of the Main Plaza and follows the Old #9 trail and the Cibolo Creek. As one of the Hill Country's top races, this fun run drew in over 500 participants last year! Register early so you’re guaranteed one of the coveted long-sleeve tech shirts. Participants have the option of choosing between the 5K, 10K, Fun Trail Walk, and Youth Mini Race!
7. Get Under the Friday Night Lights During Football Season
Image Courtesy of DailyTrib.com
While most of us refer to this season as “Fall” or “Autumn”, some diehard fans simply refer to it as “Football season”! Show your school spirit this year by cheering on your favorite high school football team. Whether you’re a Greyhounds or a Chargers fan, check out the schedule and get out to a game!
8. Dress Up For the Boerne Boo Celebration
Excited to show off your costume this year? Celebrate Halloween Boerne-style! The Boerne Boo Celebration will feature everything from mule rides to a balloon sculptor to face painting to a bounce house to a “boo-cycle contest”! Plus, the “trunk or treat” will give you and your kiddos the opportunity to score plenty of sweet treats. Both adults and children are welcome to participate!
9. Cozy Up With Some Seasonal Coffee
Fall is the season for hot coffee and tasty lattes. Thankfully, Electric Coffee (215 W. Bandera, Suite 115) has hand-crafted warm beverages (and pastries!) for you and your family to enjoy...whether you're into caffeine or not! Rated as a local favorite in Boerne, Electric Coffee Shop provides high-quality coffee, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Happy Fall, y’all!
