Message From the Host:

Hey everyone, this is Jason, your host of the Trailblazing Texas Podcast. I just want to say thank you for tuning in and being part of this growing community of hikers, campers, and outdoor lovers. Every episode is a chance to share stories that inspire us to get outside, protect our wild spaces, and connect a little deeper with the land we love.

Whether you’re listening from a trailhead, the road, or your living room, I appreciate you being here. The goal of this podcast has always been simple: to celebrate the people, parks, and passion that make exploring Texas so special.

If you enjoy what you hear, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs a little trail time in their life. Every listen, comment, and share helps us keep these conversations going and supports the incredible folks who care for our public lands.

So settle in, or lace up, and let’s hit the trail together. 🌵🎙️ This is the Trailblazing Texas Podcast.

Episode: Pedernales Falls State Park with Stephen — Where River Meets Stone

In this episode, we head to the heart of the Texas Hill Country to explore one of the most iconic, and powerful landscapes in the state: Pedernales Falls State Park. Ranger Stephen joins us to share his journey with Texas Parks & Wildlife, his path to Pedernales, and what makes this park a true Texas gem.

From the rushing cascades of the Pedernales River to the rugged limestone ledges shaped by centuries of flooding, Stephen unpacks the geological story behind the falls and how nature’s power continues to shape the park today. We also dive into the human history of the area—its Indigenous roots, early settlers, and the ongoing conservation efforts that protect this fragile ecosystem.

Stephen takes us behind the scenes of a ranger’s day, revealing the unseen work that keeps visitors safe when river levels rise and trails get wild. You’ll also get insider tips on hidden hikes, family-friendly trails, top photo spots, and the best times to catch a Hill Country sunrise or sunset.

And of course, we talk wildlife—from the whitetail deer and armadillos to the birdlife that fills the park with sound. Stephen even shares a few surprising encounters and lessons learned from nature along the way.

Whether you’ve visited Pedernales before or it’s still on your Texas hiking bucket list, this episode will leave you inspired to lace up your boots, pack your camera, and explore this incredible park with a deeper appreciation for the land and those who care for it.

🌊 Subscribe now! #TrailblazingTexas #PedernalesFallsStatePark #TexasStateParks #HillCountryHikes #TexasOutdoors #HikingTexas #ExploreTexas #TrailblazingPodcast