platter

John Muir, an American naturalist and conservationist known as Father of the National Parks, once wrote this:

“Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”

In other words, getting out into nature makes you feel good.

So, how about a list of seven recommended fall hikes just a hop, skip and a jump away from Killeen-Fort Hood down Interstate 35 in the Austin area.

According to www.onlyinyourstate.com, Homestead Trail at McKinney Falls State Park “shimmers with beauty” during the fall. Located at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, this easy 3.1-mile trail inside the state park courses through a lush forest and along the lower falls area. Along with hiking, there is biking, fishing, swimming and camping available at this 700-acre park a short distance from downtown.

Next up is Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, a 277-acre nature habitat on the Balcones Fault Line that divides the state’s prairies and the scenic Hill Country region. These 2.5 miles of trails surround a forested area full of gorgeous views and autumn sunsets and are open daily at 805 North Capital of Texas Highway.

Zilker Nature Preserve provides an especially kid-friendly hike through the woodlands inside the Austin Nature and Science Center at 2389 Stratford Drive and is considered by some to be one of the best quick and easy treks in the state when fall leaves change colors and drop to the ground.

Perhaps the best view in Austin comes from the top of Mount Bonnell, known as the highest point inside the city limits at 775 feet above sea level. This always popular and historical sightseeing destination at 3800 Mt. Bonnell Dr. along the eastern bank of Lake Austin attracts hikers and climbers of various abilities, as it features a 100-step ascent along a limestone staircase to reach the top. Panoramic…