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First Day Hikes in Texas State Parks
Start a tradition on New Year's Day 2012 by starting the year off on the right foot, the left foot, any foot - take a First Day Hike in a state park near you.
Find a park near you or join us at one of the guided hikes listed below. Check the list often, more hikes added soon.
Abilene State Park - (325) 572-3204
Location: FM 89, 150 Park Rd 32; Tuscola, TX. 79562 - Participants should meet at the park's CCC refectory building.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Abilene State Park will host a guided nature hike on the Elm Creek Nature Trail. Distance is about 1 mile, very easy hike, suitable for almost anyone. A ranger and some volunteers will point out interesting features, talk about the plants and animals, and answer questions along the way. Participants will want to bring sturdy shoes, drinking water and a hiking stick.
Barton Warnock Visitor Center - (512) 321-1673
Location: FM 170 West; Terlingua, TX. 79852 - Meet at main headquarters at either Barton Warnock Visitor Center or Fort Leaton State Historic Site.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Trail starts at a scenic overlook of the Rio Grande River and the mountains of Mexico and Big Bend Ranch State Park. The trail is approximately one-mile long, and takes approx. 1.5 hours going down to the banks of the Rio Grande; along the way, hikers can see beautiful and curious shapes of eroded rock formations at the site, giving the trail the name HooDoos Trail. Participants will want to wear appropriate clothing according to weather, sturdy shoes and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Bastrop State Park - (512) 321-1673
Location: 3005 Hwy 21 East; Bastrop, TX. 78602 - Meet at the kiosk by the park playground.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Start the New Year off right with a hike in the woods. Discover life in our unique pine forest of Central Texas, and see some of the areas up close that were impacted in this past year's historic wildfire, the worst in state history. Hike is one mile, easy-to-moderate difficulty. Participants may want to bring hiking stick, sturdy shoes and drinking water.
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park - (956) 584-9156
Location: 2800 South Bentsen Palm Dr.; Mission, TX. 78572 - Meet at the park's headquarters.
Time: 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Description: Join park staff naturalists on a guided bird walk through the park, where you can observe bird species such as Green Jays, Altamira Orioles, Great Kiskadees and Golden-fronted Woodpeckers. Or, even a chance to glimpse specialty birds such as Clay-colored Thrush, Gray Hawk, or Ringed Kingfisher. Hikers are encouraged to bring sturdy shoes, water, a hiking stick and binoculars for bird viewing.
Big Bend RanchState Park - (432) 358-4444
Location: 1900A Sauceda Rd,; Presidio, TX. 79845 - Meet at the Sauceda Ranger Station
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Come join the park superintendent on a walk to the Cinco Tinajas through the arroyo from Sauceda and back again. Hike takes you through canyons and unique scenery of the Chihuahuan Desert, where despite the rugged terrain, wildlife abounds. Hike should last 2-3 hours. Participants will want to wear hiking boots, and bring hiking stick and drinking water. Advanced preparation is a must in Big Bend country, as the drive to Sauceda Ranger Station is more than an hour from the nearest paved road.
Blanco State Park - (830) 833-4333
Location: US 281 S, Park Rd. 23; Blanco, TX. 78606 - Meet at Park Headquarters.
Time: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Description: Make this the year you keep your fitness resolution! Start your year right with a guided fitness walk and learn strategies for keeping fit all year long at Blanco State Park. This one-mile walk will have fitness challenge stations for muscle building, balance and agility work – all you need are good exercise shoes and comfortable clothes for being outside.
Brazos Bend State Park - (979) 553-5124
Location: 21901 F.M. 762; Needville, TX. 77461 - Meet at the park's nature center.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Enjoy a guided, one-hour, half-mile hike along a paved trail around the park's scenic Creekfield Lake. Brazos Bend is located just 30 minutes from downtown Houston, but provides one of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Southeast Texas. Hikers should bring sturdy shoes, a hiking stick and drinking water.
Buescher State Park - (512) 237-2241
Location: 100 Park Road 1E; Smithville, TX. 78957 - Meet at the park's trailhead, near headquarters.
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Description: Discover the wintertime traditions of plants, animals and historic people who have influenced the park, as we trek for a one mile, easy-to-moderate difficulty hike on the edge of the legendary Lost Pines forest of Central Texas. Participants may want to bring sturdy shoes, a hiking stick and drinking water.
Caddo Lake State Park - (903) 679-3351
Location: 245 Park Rd. 2; Karnack, TX. 75661 - Meet at the trail head at the boat ramp parking area.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Kick of the New Year the right way with a satisfying hike along the trails of one-of-a-kind Caddo Lake. Open to all ages, this mild hike is sure to stimulate your senses as well as you muscles. Hike will be led by a park ranger and will last about an hour, covering approximately 1.5 miles. Sturdy footgear and proper winter clothing recommended, as are a hiking stick and drinking water.
Cedar Hill State Park - (903) 679-3351
Location: 1570 W. FM 1382; Cedar Hill, TX. 75104 - Meet at the Duck Pond Trailhead.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Enjoy a leisurely one-mile walk and learn about area plants and animals and discover how living things depend on each other in order to survive and thrive in the habitat here in North Texas. The hike is relatively easy, with some stairs up and down; hike takes approx. one hour. Not recommended for wheelchairs or strollers. Please call ahead on the morning of hike to confirm. Trails at this park are unimproved surfaces and may be closed during wet conditions. Participants will want to wear sturdy shoes, and bring drinking water and a hiking stick.
Cooper Lake State Park (Doctor's Creek Unit) - (903) 395-3100
Location: 1664 FM 1529 South; Cooper, TX. 75432 - Meet at the park's Shoreline Nature Trail in the Doctor's Creek Unit.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Enjoy a guided hike through trails covered with large oak trees and other native plants, where folks can catch a glimpse of wildlife that inhabits the woods. A one mile (1/2 hour), and three-mile (1.5 - hours) hike will be offered. Go with the group, or come out anytime during the day and hike the trail on your own. Hikers should bring sturdy shoes, drinking water and a hiking stick. Park entry fees apply.
Cooper Lake State Park (South Sulphur Unit) - (903) 945-5256
Location: 1690 FM 3505; Sulphur Springs, TX. 75482 - Meet at the park's Coyote Run Trailhead, in the South Sulphur Unit.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Hike through the hills and valleys surrounding Cooper Lake, which are covered with large oak trees and numerous other plants and animals. Hike will be approx. 3 miles. Park entry fee of $3 per person, 13 years old and older apply. Participants will want to wear hiking shoes or boots, and layered clothing to accommodate weather conditions, and bring water and a walking stick.
Daingerfield State Park - (903) 645-2921
Location: 455 Park Road 17; Daingerfield, TX. 75638 - Meet at the entrance trailhead of the Rustling Leaves Nature Trail.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Welcome in the New Year at Daingerfield State Park. On this two-mile guided hike, you will learn about the flora and fauna of the legendary Pineywoods of East Texas as well as the role your state parks plays and other outdoor recreational opportunities play in maintaining physical fitness and overall well being. Participants will want to bring sturdy shoes, a hiking stick and drinking water.
Davis Mountains State Park - (432) 426-3337
Location: Hwy 118 North, Park Rd. 3; Fort Davis, TX. 79734 - Meet at the Interpretive Center.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Join us for a staff-guided scenic hike from Keesey Canyon, to a hilltop overlooking grasslands on a historic Civilian Conservation Corp road. Hike is approx. 3.5 miles round trip and lasts about three hours. Hikers are encouraged to bring plenty of water, dress appropriately, and bring sturdy shoes and a hiking stick.
Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area - (830) 683-2287
Location: TX 101 North Sweeten St.; Rocksprings, Texas 78880 - Meet at the Rocksprings Visitor Center in downtown Rocksprings.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Join us on a 3.1-mile hike on the Ancient Aquifer loop, for approximately 2 hours long. Minimum age for hikers is six. Participants will want to bring water, and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, and layered clothing to accommodate the weather. Binoculars and a hiking stick are also recommended.
Eisenhower State Park - (903) 465-1956
Location: 50 Park Rd. 20; Denison, TX. 75020 - Meet at the Eisenhower Interpretive Trailhead.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Enjoy a unique fossil hunt and hike along Lake Texoma's shoreline; it's a one-mile, one-hour trek covering some rough terrain and steep inclines. Learn how to locate and identify fossils on famed Lake Texoma, as well as state laws and regulations protecting such valuable resources. Hikers are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, bring water and a hiking stick.
Estero Llano Grande State Park - (956) 565-3919
Location: 154 A Lakeview Dr.; Weslaco, TX. 78596 - Meet at the park visitor center.
Time: 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Description: Join park staff for a morning Bird Walk at 8:30-10:30 a.m. Enjoy the "Texas Tropics," as you'll wind through trails, boardwalks and other areas to search for famous Rio Grande Valley bird species such as Kiskadees, Warblers and many others. Hikers will want to bring binoculars, a hiking stick, sturdy shoes and drinking water.
Falcon State Park - (956) 848-5327
Location: Park Road 46; Falcon Heights, TX. 78545 - Meet at parking lot at hidden day use area west of recreation hall.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Join the park's new superintendent for a pleasant, three-mile hike that should last approx. one hour. Trails are beginner level; there should be plenty of birds to see so you may want to bring binoculars. After the hike, pick a spot to throw a fishing line in the water on one of the best bass fishing lakes in the Southwest. Park entrance fees of $3 per person for adults ages 13 and older apply; children ages 12 and younger are free. Dogs on 6-foot leash are permitted. Participants may also want to bring hiking boots, drinking water, a cap or hat and hiking stick.
Fort Leaton State Historic Site - (432) 229-3613
Location: FM 170 East Presidio, TX 79845 - Meet at main headquarters at either Fort Leaton State Historic Site or Barton Warnock Visitor Center.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Trail starts at a scenic overlook of the Rio Grande River and the mountains of Mexico and Big Bend Ranch State Park. The trail is approximately one-mile long, and takes approx. 1.5 hours going down to the banks of the Rio Grande; along the way, hikers can see beautiful and curious shapes of eroded rock formations at the site, giving the trail the name HooDoos Trail. Participants will want to wear appropriate clothing according to weather, sturdy shoes and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Franklin Mountains State Park - (915) 566-6441
Location: 1331 McKelligon Canyon Rd.; El Paso, TX. 79930 - Meet at the Tom Mays Unit of Franklin Mountains State Park; hikers meet at Schaeffer's Shuffle Trail.
Time: 12:00 noon
Description: The hike begins with great views from within the canyons, and challenges to get your heart pumping for a hike of 1.5 - 2.5 hours, and about 2.6 - 4 miles long. At the end of this trail we'll provide the option to finish with a short distance back to the starting point. Or, for those yearning for more, we'll split up and take that group around to the Upper Sunset Trail to finish strong, burn some extra calories, and jumpstart those New Year's Resolutions. Bring a day pack, water, hiking shoes, hiking stick, and snacks.
Goliad State Park & Historic Site - (361) 645-3405
Location: 108 Park Rd. 6; Goliad, TX. 77963 - Meet at park headquarters.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Enjoy a Nature Walk on a moderate, two-mile hike along the San Antonio River trail in the shadow of a restored Spanish mission. Along the way, the Amigos of Goliad State Park will provide refreshments. Participants are encouraged to dress in layers, wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and bring drinking water and a hiking stick. Park entrance fees will apply.
Goose Island State Park - (361) 729-2858
Location: 202 S. Palmetto St.; Rockport, TX. 78382 - Meet at the park's Recreation Hall.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Join park staff to walk the Island and the woods of one of Texas' most popular winter spots. For sturdier souls, there will even be a trek to the famous Big Tree. Three hikes, ranging from 1.5 mi., 2.5 mi. and 4 miles will be offered. All the way to the Big Tree and back will actually be 8 miles, with a chance to see the Lamar flock of Whooping Cranes!. Hike is free to campers or with a State Park Pass. Otherwise, park entrance fees will apply to adults ages 13 and older. All hikes are beginner to intermediate in nature, and cover flat terrain. Hikers should wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, bring water and a hiking stick. There will be several opportunities for restroom breaks along the way. Binoculars are optional.
Government Canyon State Natural Area - (210) 688-9055
Location: 12861 Galm Rd.; San Antonio, TX. 78254 - Meet at the park's Visitors Center near the rainwater harvesting tower.
Time: 10:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.
Description: Join Government Canyon State Natural Area rangers and volunteers on a hike up a historic supply route to a buena vista, or on a shorter hike across a major fault zone and up into the Balcones Escarpment. Either way, you will be able to boast of being one of the first visitors to hike at Government Canyon in 2012. This is an event you don't want to miss.
Hike #1 Details: Open to all ages; minors must be accompanied by an adult; group size limited to the first 12 people; no pets please; Natural Area entrance fees apply. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes for hiking over rough terrain for about 7 miles; bring two liters of water and a snack.
Hike #2 Details: Hike across a major fault zone and up into the Balcones Escarpment. Open to all ages; minors must be accompanied by an adult; group size limited to the first 12 people; no pets please; Natural Area entrance fees apply. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes for hiking over rough terrain for about two miles; participants should bring two liters of water and a snack.
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site - (915) 857-1135 or (915) 849-6684
Location: 6900 Hueco Tanks Rd. #1; El Paso, TX. 79938 - Meet at the park headquarters.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Participants should register for the Frosty New Year Hike at least 15 minutes before the hike begins, or by 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012. The hike will last at least 2 hours, and will cover roughly 5 miles across ground-level trails and may also go up onto exposed rock surfaces. The guide may also take the tour to Native American pictographs. There will be a $5 entrance fee for adults ages 13 and older, and a $1 tour fee for participants ages 5 and older. Special requests: For safety, resource protection, and the enjoyment of the group, the hike will be limited to 10 participants. Reservations are required; participants should dress warmly, bring water, and wear sturdy shoes, and may want to bring a hiking stick.
Inks Lake State Park - (512) 793-2223
Location: 3630 Park Rd. 4 W; Burnet, TX. 78611 - Meet at the Park Headquarters.
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Description: Join us for a First Day Adventure Hike at Inks Lake State Park. Cost is $3 per person. It's an adventuresome guided hike led by a park ranger. You will see gorgeous Texas Hill Country vistas on the top of beautiful outcroppings that surround the lake. Be challenged to check off the items listed on the scavenger hunt, as we weave through oak forests, climb on rocks and leap over creek beds. It's a hiking odyssey for people of all ages. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water and a hiking stick. Prizes awarded for those that complete the two-hour hike.
Lake Arrowhead State Park - (940) 528-2215
Location: 229 Park Rd. 63, FM Rd. 1954; Wichita Falls, TX. 76310 - Meet at the the park's 1/4-mile nature trail.
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Description: Celebrate New Year's Day 2012 with a First Day Hike at Lake Arrowhead State Park. Suitable for families with kids. After that, the more adventurous will continue on a 5.5-mile hike on a slightly rolling grade that offers a good chance to see deer, birds and other wildlife. A good idea to bring a hiking stick, drinking water and sturdy hiking shoes.
Lake Bob Sandlin State Park - (903) 572-5531
Location: 341 State Park Rd. 2117, S.H. 21; Pittsburg, TX. 75686 - Meet at the Day Use kiosk.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely one-mile hike along a very scenic trail that is suitable for the entire family. Hike along the shores of Lake Bob Sandlin and discover native flora, fauna and the history of the Park. Participants may want to wear sturdy shoes, and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Lake Brownwood State Park - (325) 784-5223
Location: 200 State Hwy. Park Rd. 15; Brownwood, TX. 76801 - Meet at the park headquarters.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Join a park ranger for a First Day Hike on the Texas Oak Trail at Lake Brownwood State Park. Newly renovated by an Americorps Trail Crew, the trail follows the lake shore and provides great views of Lake Brownwood. Other parts of the trail highlight the park's unique rock features. This one-mile trail is easy with some moderate climbs and is suitable for families. You may want to bring a hiking stick, sturdy shoes and drinking water.
Lake Colorado City State Park - (325) 784-5223
Location: 4582 FM 2836; Colorado City, TX. 79512 - Meet at the park headquarters.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Come for an enjoyable 1/2-to one-mile, hike for about 30 minutes on our trails. Terrain is rough with changes in elevation, so participants will want to bring hiking shoes, a hiking stick and drinking water. After the first hike is completed, folks will have the option to run/walk/bike an additional mile.
Lake Livingston State Park - (936) 365-2201
Location: 300 State Park Rd. 65; Livingston, TX. 77351 - Meet at the Pineywoods Nature Trail.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Enjoy a leisurely guided interpretive walk through this scenic park in Southeast Texas covering varied terrain for about an hour. Participants will want to wear sturdy shoes and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway - (940) 328-1171
Location: 100 Park Rd. 71; Mineral Wells, TX. 76067 - Meet at the park headquarters.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Join Park Interpreter David Owens on a wild walk, crawl and scoot through some of the most remote areas of beautiful Penitentiary Hollow. This is a strenuous walk involving some crawling through tight spaces in rock cracks, crevices and short caves. Expect to get dirty! The distance is less than a mile, the duration is 1.5 to 2 hours, and the walk is fairly strenuous with easier route options around obstacles. Long pants, long sleeves and hiking boots are recommended, as is a hiking stick and drinking water. Walk is limited to 20 participants; please call ahead to sign up and for availability (940) 328-1171.
Lake Tawakoni State Park - (903) 560-7123
Location: 10822 FM 2475 Wills Point, TX. 75169 - Meet at the day-use restroom area.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Jump start the New Year with a beautiful walk to the water's edge where you can catch a glimpse of shorebirds and feel the breeze off the lake. Hike is about one mile round trip and should last about an hour, as it winds through post oak savannah regions. Your park ranger guide will talk about the trees and wildlife that live in the area. Suggest hikers wear closed toe shoes and bring a hiking stick and a bottle of water.
Lake Whitney State Park - (254) 694-3793
Location: 433 FM 1244; Whitney, TX. 76692 - Meet at the trailhead next to the park's Group Recreation Hall.
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Description: Resolve to welcome the New Year with a First Day Hike at Lake Whitney State Park. On this easy, one-mile guided hike, you'll learn about the flora and fauna of the region as well as the role of the state park and outdoor recreation in physical fitness and wellness. Participants may want to bring hiking stick, sturdy shoes and drinking water.
Lockhart State Park - (512) 398-3479
Location: 4179 State Park Rd.; Lockhart, TX. 78644 - Hikers meet at the Creek View trailhead, at the end of the camping loop road.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Visitors can enjoy a 3/4-mile hike for about an hour for beginner and moderate hikers. Entrance fees of $3 per person ages 13 and older will apply, and children ages 12 and younger are free. Participants will want to bring sturdy shoes, binoculars, drinking water and a walking stick.
Martin Creek Lake State Park - (903) 836-4336
Location:9515 CR 2181D; Tatum, TX. 75691 - Hikers will meet at Group Pavilion.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Start the year off right with a healthy and informative walk along the shoreline around the primitive camping island. Low lake levels provide a unique opportunity to observe unique lakebed features including animal tracks, brim beds, mussel shoals and a special look at the impact of wake-creating recreational watercraft along the island's shoreline. Cost for adults is $2 per person. Kids hike free. Bring bottled water and comfortable walking shoes. Hiking sticks are optional but are available for purchase at the park office.
Mother Neff State Park - (254) 853-2389
Location: 1680 SH 236; Moody, TX. 76557 - Meet at park headquarters.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: It is a new year starting on the first day of the week, a time for new goals and habits. A time for paying attention to your health, reducing stress, and enjoying the outdoors. Join Park Ranger Marianne Van Houtte , as she will guide on the trails and explain the health benefits of walking. Fresh air and beautiful surroundings contribute to emotional health too, and play a part in reducing stress on the body. As a Boston Marathon finisher, Marianne can provide you information on running or jogging, as the trials are conducive for that as well. Nothing fancy is required; just a comfortable pair of shoes and a water bottle. There is no charge for the guided hike; however, park entrance fees do apply.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park - (806) 488-2227
Location: 11450 Park Rd. 5; Canyon, TX. 79015 - Meet at the south end of the park's Chinaberry Day-Use Area.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Park Trail and Resource Manager Mark Hassell will lead folks on a short and easy, 1/2-mile hike down the Paseo del Rio Trail and return. This family-friendly hike will introduce hikers to the geology, flora and fauna, and history of legendary Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Hikers may want to bring sturdy shoes, drinking water and a hiking stick. Special notes: Weather permitting; no pets, please.
Palmetto State Park - (830) 672-3266
Location: 78 Park Rd. 11; South Gonzales, TX. 78629 - Meet at the CCC Refectory.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Description: Join us for a 2.5-mile hike through one of the most unique ecosystems of southeast Central Texas. Here, a large forest of dwarf palmetto plants converges with the Post Oak terrain found further to the East. the 2-hour hike covers mostly easy terrain, with improved surfaces on many trails throughout the park. Participants will want to bring sturdy shoes, drinking water and a hiking stick.
Purtis Creek State Park - (903) 425-2332.
Location: 14229 FM 316; Eustace, TX. 75124 - Meet at nature trail trailhead.
Time: 2:00 p.m., weather permitting.
Description: Take a hike and learn about the flora and fauna of Purtis Creek State Park in the eastern portion of North Texas. The hike covers approx. 1.25 mile roundtrip, and is expected to last about 1.5 hours. Participants will want to wear sturdy shoes, and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Ray Roberts Lake State Park (Isle du Bois Unit) - (940) 686-2148
Location: 100 PW 4137; Pilot Point, TX. 76258 - Meet at the Lost Pines Nature Trail / Amphitheater in the Isle du Bois Unit
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Visitors can enjoy the Lost Pines Nature Hike focused on the native plant and animal species that inhabit the park. Hike is approximately 1-hour long and distance will vary depending on participation. Surface will be trails and some uneven surfaces. Participants will want to wear sturdy shoes, bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
Ray Roberts Lake State Park (Johnson Branch Unit) - (940) 637-2294
Location: 100 PW 4153; Valley View, TX. 76272 - Meet at the Johnson Branch Amphitheater in the Johnson Branch Unit.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Description: Come and enjoy a nature hike focused on the native plant and animal species that inhabit the park on the other side of the lake. Hike is approx. an hour long, and distance will vary depending on participation. Surface will be trails over uneven ground, so participants will want to wear sturdy shoes and bring a hiking stick and drinking water.
San Angelo State Park - (325) 947-2687
Location: 3900-2 Mercedes Rd.; San Angelo, TX. 76901. - Meet at the South Shore Unit.
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Description: Bike and run on the more than 50 miles of multi-use trails, for an approximate 2-3 hours, as sections will be marked off specifically for New Year's Day hikers. Numerous other hike, bike and equestrian opportunities abound in this park where eco-regions converge and longhorns and bison still graze. Terrain in this park is varied, and can be primitive and challenging, so bring hiking shoes, drinking water and a hiking stick.
Seminole Canyon State Park& Historic Site - (432) 292-4464
Location: US Hwy. 90 W.; Comstock, TX. 78837 - Meet at park headquarters.
Time: 10:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m., weather permitting.
Description: Enjoy a two-mile, guided, walking tour as it descends into a limestone canyon where you will view 4,000-year-old Pecos River Style Pictographs, among the oldest, most colorful, complex and distinctive ancient paintings in all of the Americas; hike lasts for approx. 1.5 hours. Special requirements or caveats: mildly strenuous, requires hiking over steep steps; may want to bring hiking stick, water and sturdy hiking shoes.
Sheldon Lake State Park - (281) 456-2800
Location: 15315 Beaumont Hwy.; Houston, TX. 77049 - Meet in front of Acorn Annex.
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Description: Come for a 3/4-mile hike on the park's Pond Loop Trail and see the new John Jacob Observation Tower and other park features. The Pond Loop will illustrate to visitors the impact of recent rains and the Tower will allow them to see both the developing prairie and lake. Pets are permitted on a 6-foot leash. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and dress for the weather.
Stephen F. Austin State Park - (979) 885-3613
Location: 3 miles east of Sealy on IH 10; San Felipe, TX. 77473 - Meet at park headquarters at 1:15 p.m.
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Description: Hikers can choose from two separate hikes through various terrain, scenic overlooks, river bottom, roads and short elevations changes, where visitors will have chances to view native wildlife. One hike will be more strenuous and fitness oriented and 3-miles long, while the second hike will be more casual and cover 2.5 miles. Hikes may not be appropriate for young children, strollers, or persons with physical challenges; pets on 6-foot leashes are allowed. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and bring a hiking stick and drinking water. And park entrance fees will apply.
Tyler State Park - (903) 597-5338
Location: 789 Park Rd. 16; Tyler, TX. 75706 - Meet at park's multi-use trailhead.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Enjoy a family-friendly hike to get reconnected to the outdoors by experiencing changing ecosystems. For beginners, there's a two-mile hike on our Loop A trail, and for a little more challenge, there's a 5-mile hike on Loop A and B trails. Hikers are encouraged to bring sturdy shoes, water, a hiking stick and some energy snacks.
Village Creek State Park - (409) 755-7322
Location: 8854 Park Rd. 74; Lumberton, TX. 77657 - Meet at the Park Headquarters.
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Description: Park Superintendent Jerry Rashall will be leading a Guided Nature Trail Hike through this scenic park on the edge of the famed Big Thicket, a dense and biologically diverse eco-region in Southeast Texas. Participants should bring drinking water, comfortable shoes and a hiking stick. Hike will go through picnic area, past tent campsites to River Birch trail down Water Oak trail and back through Loblolly trail.
Wyler Aerial Tramway - (915) 562-9899
Location: 1700 McKinley; El Paso, TX. 79930 - Meet at the Directissimo Trailhead parking lot.
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Description: Join us in the beautiful desert mountains of far West Texas for a two-hour, 1.5-mile guided "Ranger Peak Trail Blaze" hike. Terrain will be moderate to difficult, with high elevation and ascent of some 940 feet. The trail has a series of benches and rest areas along the way in case anyone wants to stop for a brief rest or gaze at spectacular views. The hike ends atop Ranger Peak, at 5,632 ft. elevation. Topside has restroom facilities, gift shop and a patio area. Participants should register in advance for the hike (which is free), and will want to bring hiking boots, a hiking stick and drinking water. Folks can also ride the tramway up or down the mountain; one-way tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for children.
