Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Herman Brown Park
This 750-acre park on the northeast edge of the city is an oasis for hikers. Even though the park is sur-
rounded by residential communities, its trails pass through bottomland hardwood forest containing live
oak, black willow, and cypress. Hunting Bayou adds interest as it bisects the park. The bayou also at-
tracts neotropical birds as they stop on their migration flights.
Distance: 2.8 miles of interconnecting loops with a short out-and-back section
Approximate hiking time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy; paved flat trail
Trail surface: Asphalt, crushed granite, mulch
Best season: Year-round
Other trail users: Dog walkers
Canine compatibility: Leashed dogs permitted
Fees and permits: No fees or permits required
Schedule: 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Maps: USGS Jacinto City; park maps available at www.houstontx.gov/parks/trails.html
Trail contacts: Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD), 2999 S. Wayside
Dr., Houston 77023; (713) 845-1000
Finding the trailhead:
From the junction of I-10 East and US 59, follow I-10 for 5.6
miles to exit 776A toward Mercury Drive. After 0.1 mile bear slightly left onto East
Freeway. In 0.2 mile turn left onto Mercury Drive. Continue straight and turn into Her-
man Brown Park at 400 Mercury Dr., northeast of the I-10 and I-610 interchange. The
trailhead is located at the end of the parking area. DeLorme: Texas Atlas & Gazetteer:
Page 131 H8. GPS: N29 46.955' / W95 14.739'
The Hike
Start the hike from the east side of the parking area just past the gate at the asphalt maintenance road.
Turn right, heading east. There are lights on the left side, allowing some hiking after dusk. Due to Hur-
