Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Hike
Start the Robin Trail at the trailhead just inside the park gate. There is a large map of the park mounted
next to the gate. The paved trail is wheelchair accessible, but several steep slopes may make using a
wheelchair impractical. This underutilized trail provides a great hike for those wanting a little solitude.
Head east down a slope, passing an earth mound on the left and then crossing a bridge over large
culverts. The mix of hardwood trees includes bur oak, live oak, sycamore, willow, dogwood, and
yaupon, a very invasive small tree. These hardwoods plus a few loblolly pines furnish good habitat for
animals and birds. The trees provide a good canopy, making the hike more enjoyable. Benches are
placed conveniently along the trail, some of them facing the bayou.
Buffalo Bayou can be seen on the left (north) about 50 feet away. Sometimes the left edge of the
trail drops sharply to the bayou, so use caution. Reach a bridge with a small stream flowing under it.
These unnamed creeks are called “meanders.” That's the local term for segments of Buffalo Bayou
that have been left behind as the bayou changed course over the years.
Following the trail east; turn right at the T and head due south. This is the beginning of the Robin
Loop. The bayou continues east, away from the loop. This section of the hike is unusual because the
entire loop is in your line of sight. The long, narrow loop has a row of trees on each side, and a fence
partially shields residences on the east and west sides.
The loop goes south to Whittington Road and then turns north. A concrete-sided drainage canal in
the center runs the length of the loop. Mowed grass and a few plantings including crepe myrtle cover
the ground around the loop. The interior sides of the trail slope sharply down about 25 feet to the
canal, so watch your step. Complete the loop at the T intersection where it started. Turn right and
backtrack to the trailhead.
The park is named in honor of Terry Hershey, who with her husband and friends, including young
congressman George Bush, worked together to have 500 acres set aside for a park. They also con-
vinced the authorities not to pave the sides of Buffalo Bayou, as had been the practice at the time.
