Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
6
Friedrich Wilderness Park:
Main Loop, Vista Loop, and
Fern Del Trail
Perched high on the Balcones Escarpment, this hike becomes exhilarating on the short Fern Del Trail.
Go up steep limestone outcroppings, called steps, through a dwarf forest and along a singletrack, cliff-
hugging path overlooking the canyon. Vista Loop offers a glimpse of the San Antonio skyline. Follow
segments of the Main Loop, Vista Loop, Fern Del, and Water Trails to get the best of Friedrich.
Distance: 2.3-mile lollipop
Approximate hiking time: 1.75 hours
Difficulty: Easy except for the 0.25-mile Fern Del Trail, which is more challenging due
to steep inclines over limestone outcrops
Trail surface: Concrete, wood chips, limestone outcrops, dirt path
Best seasons: Sept through June
Other trail users: Joggers
Canine compatibility: Dogs not permitted
Land status: San Antonio natural area park; San Antonio Parks and Recreation Depart-
ment
Fees and permits: No fees or permits required
Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Oct through March; 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Apr through
Sept; closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Park entrance closes one hour before
closing time.
Maps: A trail map is available in the park office. A map is also on the Web at
www.sannaturalareas.org. USGS Camp Bullis
Trail contacts: Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Rd., San Antonio 78256; (210)
564-6400. Note: Friedrich is headquarters for natural areas.
