Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Hike
Start the trail, which is all on concrete sidewalks with a few minor up-and-down grades, from the
northwest side of the parking area. The sidewalks are just inside the park gate. Take the right branch of
the trail, heading away from the soccer fields. Two pavilions and a playground are on the left. Follow
the trail as it veers left past tennis courts. At about 0.25 mile leave the playground/ball field area and
enter the woods. The woods are mostly hardwoods, including live oaks, with a few large loblolly
pines. The trail is cleared for about 15 feet to the woods on each side.
The bridge that crosses Halls Bayou provides an opportunity to inspect the bayou, which bisects the
park. Shorebirds may be seen along the edges of the bayou. The trail alternates between partial and no
tree canopy, so wear a hat and sunscreen.
Birds may be heard in the woods, including the distinct notes of the song sparrow. Listen for three
or four notes followed by a “tow-wee.” There are some interesting stone blocks along the trail, some
of them large enough to sit on.
As you approach the retention ponds, you'll notice that the terrain has been altered by bulldozers.
The forest has been cleared and the land shaped to slope down gently to the basins. The landscaping
expertly blends the ponds with the surrounding forest. Birds and other water-loving creatures have
made the ponds home, and bird watchers are already considering this a premier location.
The hike follows around and across the ponds. A large wooden boardwalk winds its way over the
largest pond. Several observation areas built on the boardwalk have benches and informational signs.
Depending on the season, there are hundreds of birds around or in the pond, including egrets, herons,
ducks, and a variety of other species. A smaller pond joins the larger pond via an overflow ditch.
Follow the trail going around the pond, which is on the right. Pass a wooden observation deck at the
edge of the pond. Continue following the trail going away from the ponds until you reach a Y. There
are two large orange rectangular stones at this point. Take the left branch and backtrack to the trail-
head.
This 500-acre park in the middle of a forest on the city's northeast side holds great promise to
hikers, as more trails are planned.
