Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
miles. The park entrance is at 19399 Northwest Military Hwy. on the left. Eisenhower
Park is about 19 miles northwest of downtown. DeLorme: Texas Atlas & Gazetteer:
Page 156 A3. GPS: N 29 37.295' / W 98 34.466'
The Hike
This Hillview Trail starts near the kiosk, which features a large trail map and pocket-size maps. Be
sure to take one of the small maps that also include an interpretive guide for plants that are identified
by short marker posts along the trail. The guide was an Eagle Scout project of Boy Scout Troop 650.
Restroom facilities and water fountains are available. Parts of these trails have no shade, so wear a hat
and sunscreen, and take plenty of water.
Head north, passing by the intersection with Yucca Trail. The surface on the first 0.25 mile is as-
phalt; it then changes to crushed gravel and limestone. Hillview Trail contains some of the most
rugged sections of the hike as it leads to Red Oak Trail. There are a number of Y branches, so follow
the Miles and Directions instructions.
Continue heading north, and then make a sharp bend left, heading west along the park boundary.
Pass by groups of prickly pear cactus, the state plant. The trail undulates up and down but generally
heads up. Cedar trees form a partial canopy. Go by the first junction on the left (south) with Shady
Creek Trail, and within 100 yards pass the second junction. Continue following Hillview west.
The surface becomes increasingly rougher as it heads up over limestone outcrops, jokingly called
“steps,” and across tree roots. This is the most difficult part of the hike; fortunately, some of the rocks
have flat surfaces that can be used to sit on. Watch for numbered, low interpretive marker posts. Pass
an intersection on the left with Yucca Trail. Continue following Hillview to a Y intersection with Red
Oak. Take the right branch onto Red Oak, heading west and then north for a short distance.
Follow Red Oak as it bends sharply left, heading south along the park's western boundary. This is a
less traveled part and one of the best areas to see wildlife. Cross a wooden bridge over a dry creek bed,
continuing south, and then make a hard right (east) to reach the T with Hillview. Take the right branch,
heading a short distance south, where it Y's into Cedar Flats.
Follow Cedar Flats west, past a composting toilet and to the observation tower. There are some good
views over the trees, but they are marred by a quarry and some power lines in the direction toward San
Antonio. Backtrack and follow Cedar Flats Trail east. Pass by two tall poles on the left that support bat
houses. Continue past two intersections on the left with Shady Creek Trail and head southeast to the
trailhead.
