Mission, Texas, is a great place to travel if you want to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, USA Today calls the town the butterfly capital of America, so you should expect to see butterflies while exploring wildlife or taking a walk during the morning or afternoon.
Here are four of the best places to rediscover nature in Mission, Texas:
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National Butterfly Center
A 100-acre facility that’s part of a project by the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), the National Butterfly Center is a non-profit organization, advocating for environmental conservation and education. Once you arrive, you can view the 286 species of butterflies on the walking trails or two of the birding areas. You can go to the center’s photography blind for spectacular photos of these beauties.
Make sure to visit the center when it’s over 70 degrees and sunny as birds and butterflies are more likely to show up under these conditions. The peak months are late October to early November, but it could extend beyond this time if there is a delay in the season’s first cold snap. This location is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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The World Birding Center (Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley)
The World Birding Center is a network of nine birding sites. You can find each of the sites along the 120-mile river road snaking through the Lower Rio Grande Valley, including Bentsen-Rio Grande Grand Valley Park in Mission.
At this location, you can discover various species of birds that reside in the park such as Green Jays and Plain Chachalacas. You might find these species from early November to late March. As an added highlight you may use the park’s bird-feeding stations during this period to feed the birds and view their behavior.
Visit the park’s two-story observation tower to get a closer look at the bird’s canopy and look across the border into Mexico. The park offers guided tours for visitors interested in knowing more about the bird’s natural habitats. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
The cost of admission is free for small parties and only $3 for a group of 10 or more. Texas State Park Pass Holders also get free admission.
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Mission Hike and Bike Trail
The Mission Hike and Bike Trail is a five-mile trail that you can access year-round. The trail connects to the entrance of Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. If you want to have a challenging bike experience, try one of the rugged trails. Runners and hikers still frequent this trail as well, but it’s important to watch out for the temperature. Southern Texas can reach and exceed 100 degrees during the summer months.
Take the entrance on South Conway Avenue before making your way to the park at the end of the trail. Make sure you bring water bottles and sunscreen to stay hydrated and avoid sunburn.
Venture to these locations the next time you’re vying to experience nature in Mission, Texas.
Image via pexels.com
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