A Texas Wonder: Lost Maples Natural Area

During the last glacial period, approximately 100,000 years ago, Bigtooth Maples were present in abundance from the Gulf of Mexico to Northern Canada.

Progressive weather changes with southern warmer temperatures made these trees disappear south of today's Canadian border.

However, due to a peculiar geological glitch, these trees still remain in the valley of the Sabinal River 5 miles north of Vanderpool and 70 miles northwest of San Antonio in Texas.

Every fall in the state of Texas, these Bigtooth Maples turn just as golden as their northern cousins in a glorious golden display — no need to travel far north.