Escape to Old Baldy: Your Killeen/Temple Day Trip to Heaven

If you want a perfect day trip from Killeen and Temple just point your car south, and go to Wimberley, Texas. It is there that you will find Old Baldy Park and the world-famous "Stairway to Heaven." You'll be just about two hours away, and that short drive will drop you right in the heart of Texas Hill Country charm and one of the best climbs in Central Texas.

The Iconic 218-Step Staircase

The highlight is the 218-step limestone staircase that goes up the steep hill called Old Baldy, which will give you stunning 360-degree views of the Wimberley Valley. Yes, a remarkable view so unbelievable, you might forget your legs were on fire from climbing. If you can't go the pace you want or you need a break there are benches and landings you can stop at to pretend you are taking in the scenery instead of just the feeling of death creeping in.

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More Than Just a Hike: A Quick & Rewarding Adventure

This is not an all-day commitment of hiking. More of a "show up, sweat, then go enjoy the moment" scenario. The staircase attracts families, causal hikers, and those just needing to burn off a breakfast taco. You can climb the steps and then be back down before your phone needs recharging. Once you've exhausted yourself at the summit, spectacular postcard views of rolling hills and blue skies will entice you to forget the climb you just made to get to the top.

Explore Wimberley After Your Climb

After you're done exploring the views up top, you can also explore Wimberley for an after-hike lunch, a few eclectic shops, or maybe to dip your toes in the creek. However, Old Baldy is the definitely the main attraction.

If you have felt like you want to remind your kids that nature is pretty cool, then the Stairway to Heaven at Old Baldy is a pretty good option for anyone in Central Texas.