A Diamond in the Rough.
McKinney Roughs
- 4/4/2004
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Distance: 5.00 Miles
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Hey Y''all,
Mckinney Roughs is a really nice park! We did a loop hike along the following trails: Riverside to Pine Ridge to Cypress to Riverside to Bluestem to Bluff Trail Loop (West) to the Ridge trail. Sounds like a lot, but it was probably about five miles in length (I forgot my pedometer). Overall, I would have to say the Pine Ridge trail was the nicest. It is very similar to The Lost Pines Trail at Bastrop State Park, but it is much more hilly. Plus, it has much nicer vistas than Bastrop. Further, the pines are occasionally punctuated by Oak/Juniper Savannah. Leaving the Pine Ridge trail and heading down the Cypress trail, the trail begins to descend into the bottomlands of the Colorado River. It became much cooler. Once we were on the Riverside trail we found a spot that allowed us to access the river. We waded out to a small island, took off our shirts and started swimming. I can think of no better way to bring in the Springtime than to enjoy a Texas river. After a while, and with some reluctance, we continued our hike. The Bluestem to Bluff Loop trails ascend a small set of hills, which lead to the Ridge trail. Once again, there were very nice vistas and plenty of spots to stop and take in the view. Overall, it was a really enjoyable hike. We didn''t see anyone until we reached the river, then once again on the Ridge trail; and that''s because there were probably 100 or 150 people at the visitor center. So, if you''re in the vicinity of Austin, you should definitely check this park out.
Always a Great Hike!
Good Water Trail
- 2/9/2004
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Distance: 16.60 Miles
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I did the entire Goodwater Trail with a group of backpackers this weekend. We dropped a car off at Cedar Breaks Park and drove around to Russell Park, on the other side of the lake. From there, we hiked to Tejas Camp, were we met up with another member of the trip. We continued hiking to Sawyer Camp, were we met up with another group member, and stayed for the night. It was great! We had a nice camp fire and good conversation into the night. Sunday morning we woke up to a chilly morning, but still very nice. Later, we hiked the remaining 6 1/2 miles to Cedar Breaks Park, where our car was waiting. A must try. Enjoy!
A South Austin Favorite!
Barton Creek - Lower
- 11/13/2003
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Distance: 4.00 Miles
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The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a refreshing retreat from the rush of the city. Though it is surrounded on all sides by major roadways, and development is constantly encroaching, the Greenbelt is always enjoyable. Something that is extra pleasing this time of year is the maple leaves changing color along the creek. It seems likely they have been brought down stream from another location, due to the fact that they are concentrated on the edge of the creekbed. Regardless, one should enjoy them while you can.
78704, it's more than Barton Creek.
Blunn Creek Preserve
- 7/20/2003
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Distance: 1.50 Miles
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Blunn Creek Preserve is an enjoyable hike in the heart of South Austin. Less used than its 78704 neighbor, Blunn Creek offers a quick get away for people living south of the river. Plus, because it is less known than Barton Creek, hiking the trails can be more relaxing; you won't find bikers zooming by every two seconds. The trails are very well marked, except for a few in the northern part of the preserve, which allows for easy hiking. The Volcanic Overlook is the best view in the preserve. Suprisingly, the view from the overlook is not congested with houses and other structures; there is a great view of St. Edwards Univeristy, which sits on an extinct volcano, plus you get an excellent view of the hills to the west. When hiking in from the south, you'll see red volcanic ash on the trail, just before you reach the overlook. Check it out while you can because it has diminshed significantly in the last few years. The vegetation in the preserve is largely regrowth, but that's o.k., considering the ever growing IH-35 is less than a half of a mile away; but don't fear, while hiking in the preserve you'd almost never know it.
On the edge of the Hill Country.
River Trail
- 7/7/2003
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Distance: 4.60 Miles
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Colorado Bend is situated north of Lake Buchanen, before the dams, so it still looks like a river. The River Trail is awesome; it runs along the river for most of the way. The first portion of the hike is an easy walk on a caliche road next to a couple of hills in the shade. The trail leaves the river when you see the tire tracks go up a small rise. There is also an unsanctioned trail which continues to run along the river. However, it is best to follow the sanctioned trail, not only to prevent destruction of habitat and erosion, but also because it is much easier to follow. On this part of the trail you walk through an open grassland. There is no shade, but I suggest you wear pants because of the stickers you will come across here. Before long, you'll be at the primitive camping area. There are some nice spots with lots of shade; some have easier access to the river than others. You can beat the heat by going swimming or, for something more leisurely, you can go fishing. There's a dirt road across the river that has a couple of houses on it, but other than that I did'nt see anyone on the hike. As for wildlife, I saw armadillos, turkeys, racoons, and vultures. At night I was surrounded by feral hogs. I did'nt mess with them and they did'nt mess with me, but be careful. Nonetheless, you have to check out this lovely state park on the edge of the Hill Country.