Guided Canyon Tour

#Arrival Instructions **Please arrive 15 minutes before** your scheduled tour to allow time to check in and explore the **[Uplands](www.westcave.org/the-uplands)**, which is included with your reservation. Your guide will leave **promptly at the start of your event time.** The listed time is not an 'access window', but the time the hike leaves. It is very important to **arrive early and be ready in our main building at your event start time.** The outer gates will open 30-45 minutes before your experience start time. If our outer gates are still closed, please wait for a staff member to open them. You will check in at the Environmental Learning Center (main building) . **No accommodations, refunds, or reschedules will be made for late arrivals.** ##Please NOTE - **Bring plenty of water,** no water is available at the Preserve. - **No Pets** are allowed on the property, and may not be left in a vehicle. - **No Swimming** - **No Smoking** #All events are weather permitting. ___________________________________ # FAQs ### Do you allow pets? * No pets are allowed on the premises of Westcave Preserve, even if on a leash. Pets are not allowed to be left in a vehicle. If you are found with a pet on the Preserve or locked in your vehicle, you will kindly be asked to leave. * We recommend visiting Milton Reimers Ranch Park (2 miles away) if you like spending time outside with your pet. ### Can we swim at Westcave? * There is no swimming at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River. ### Can I take a ride share to Westcave? Please DO NOT take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft) to Westcave. We are outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded. ###What is your cancellation policy? ***Customers MUST provide a 24-hour notice via email to request a rebooking or full refund/credit for any reason.*** *If Westcave cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will receive an email notice and a full refund.* To cancel, click the "Cancel Booking" link under the picture of the grotto on your confirmation email. If you have any difficulties, please contact us by sending an email to info@westcave.org.* ***No-shows will be charged the full price.*** . If your tour is not canceled, you must still provide 24-hours advanced notice to request a refund or rebooking for any reason. ### What should I bring/wear? * Dress comfortably in tennis or hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support. In cooler weather, dressing in layers is recommended. * **Recommended:** A camera, hat, sunscreen, hiking poles (none will be provided) , first aid kit/medications, hand sanitizer and flashlights (for the cave) are also encouraged. ### Do you have restrooms? * Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place. ***Please note:** there is **NO** smoking and no drones are allowed on the property. #*A Naturalist-Led Walk in our Beautiful Canyon* Each Guided Canyon Tour has a **maximum number 25 of guests** plus your guide. Your guide will take visitors along a 1.5-2 hour guided hike through an **arid savanna** into a **limestone crevice** down a 100 foot staircase into a **sheltered canyon** of lush plant life. You will reach the head of the canyon where water falls along a stunning 40-foot cliff that stands replenishing the grotto pool below. **This is a one mile, round trip, moderate to difficult hike.** ***Access to the canyon, cave, and grotto is only permitted with a supervising staff member.*** *All events are weather permitting. Pets are not allowed on the property, and may not be left in a vehicle.* If you would like to extend your stay at our preserve, the Uplands is included in your Guided Canyon Tour. ____ ***Limitations*** - “Spots” on tours and at Westcave events should not be advertised, marketed, or sold. - Identification may be required on arrival at Westcave regarding any reservation or experience. - Westcave reserves the right to cancel a tour at any time, for any reason. - Our Preserve has limited parking availability. Please limit your group to no more than 2 vehicles in order that we can accommodate all guests. - **Important note:** *Please DO NOT take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft) to Westcave. We are outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded.* ##Reservations Required - **Reservation dates are opened the first week of the month prior.** *For example (December bookings will open the 1st week of November) *