Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
onto California Crossing and look for a gravel parking lot on the right. GPS: N32
51.999' / W96 55.433'
The Hike
The trail takes you on a winding path through a dense forest by the Trinity River, including a great
riverside resting spot to check out turtles, snakes, and herons. Maintained by the Dallas Off Road Bi-
cycle Association (DORBA), the park is overcoming its shady reputation as a drinking spot. (It is loc-
ated not far from liquor stores at the Dallas city limits on Northwest Highway.)
With more than 7.0 miles of singletrack trails, the park is a major draw for cyclists testing their skill
and nerves on the winding paths. There's a pond by the parking lot, where local anglers like to try their
luck. Look for the park regulations posted on a small billboard; the trailhead is to the right. The loop is
designed to be done counterclockwise, so start the trail by turning right and moving into the forest.
Here the very dense growth of privet feels almost junglelike, which no doubt adds to the challenge of
biking it. But for hikers it's just a matter of watching for low-lying branches and listening for cyclists
coming up from behind—they get the right of way here.
The narrow trail often has room for only single-file hiking as it meanders toward the river. At the
1.0-mile mark there's a small bench for taking in the view, but unfortunately there's not a lot of other
room along the trail here.
Despite being surrounded by major freeways and bustling high-rises of Las Colinas, the park has
abundant wildlife, with butterflies and birds flitting in and out of the tree canopy down to the river.
The trail crosses a small bridge and enters an open meadow at about 1.4 miles. From here you can see
the trailhead; turn left and follow the dirt road back to the parking lot.
