Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Start the hike from city parking lot H. Follow the connector path at the southeast corner to the T inter-
section and take the right (west) branch. The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible. This is a multi-
use trail, so stay to the right and watch for cyclists and joggers. There are benches along the trail. The
tree canopy is intermittent but furnishes some shade. Take a hat, sunscreen, and water.
This very short part of the trail, until it reaches Sabine Street, is technically part of the Blue Bayou
Trail. Enter the Art Park, a small grassy area around the trail where sculptures and other artwork from
local artists are displayed. The sidewalk sections are painted alternately blue and white, displaying a
poem. Reach the portal (entrance) to Sabine Street. At the entrance on the right, a raised 20-foot
stainless-steel, upside-down canoe sculpture that serves as a bayou landmark can be seen. Continue
west, going under the Sabine Street bridge.
The left edge of the trail slopes down about 25 feet to the bayou. To the right and left of the trail, the
green space is mostly mowed grass, with bushes and trees at the water's edge. Eleanor Tinsley Park
can be seen to the left, across the bayou. Up a slope and on the right side is the Lee and Joe Jamail
Skate Park; adjoining it is the Jim Mozola Memorial Disc Golf area. The trail follows the bayou as it
makes a lazy bend to the right. Willows, live oaks, sycamores, and other trees line the water's edge.
Reach a sidewalk on the right and follow it, making a short out-and-back walk into a small section
of woods. There is a drainage channel lined with rocks and concrete leading to the bayou. Maidenhair
ferns and wildflowers create a pleasant palette. Benches and large rocks are available to sit on. This
peaceful, shaded area is a great spot for a snack. Backtrack to the main trail and turn right.
Continue following the curves and bends as the trail heads west. On the right is a large group of live
oak trees with their branches touching the ground. Inhale—but not too deeply. The slightly unpleasant
aroma is from the guano (droppings) of the 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under the
Waugh Street bridge. This is a good spot to stop and backtrack to the trailhead.
