Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The park has ample drinking fountains and benches. Portions of the trail are lighted. It boasts two pa-
vilions. The first, the Sadie Ray and Waldo Graf Pavilion, near the trailhead, is a large building that
contains tables, benches, restroom facilities, and water fountains. The second is unnamed and along
the trail. There are also playgrounds, basketball courts, and a YMCA facility available. The tree can-
opy is erratic, so wear a cap and use sunscreen.
Head east from the trailhead into the cedar woods. In less than 0.1 mile, pass a sidewalk leading to
picnic tables and a water fountain. The paved trail slopes slightly uphill. Watch for wildlife in the
woods near the edges of the trail. White-tailed deer may be seen early in the morning or around dusk.
Continue following the trail east until it bends sharply left as it climbs to the bluffs above the Leon
Creek Valley.
Reach a sidewalk on the right that leads to the vista above Leon Creek. There is a barricade there to
help prevent people slipping over. The overlook is about 30 feet up. Paths lead down to the creek. This
is the scenic high point of the hike. The park is alive with many species of birds; some can be heard or
seen from here. Be extremely cautious! A hiker fell over the edge in 2009 and was killed. Return to the
trail and head north.
Follow the trail north along the top of the bluffs. In places the cedar trees form an arch above the
trail, creating pleasant shade from the Texas sun. Butterflies are common in the spring and summer,
gathering nectar from the wildflowers. About 0.8 mile from the trailhead make a hard left and head
west. The section runs along the park boundary, and residences, behind fences, are close on the right
side. Reach the park gate and turn left, following the park road back to the trailhead.
In addition to its hiking and mountain bike trails, the park has entered into the San Antonio Linear
Creekway Program, which connects mostly out-and-back hikes along creeks and rivers. Access to the
Leon Creek Greenery-Buddy Calk Trail can be made from O. P. Schnabel. The park is also listed as
HOTE 91 on the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department maps, showing good viewing areas for birds and
other wildlife.
The park was originally named Bandera Road Park but was renamed the O. P. Schnabel Park in
1977. Schnabel was known for his antilitter campaigns, especially for the slogans he created, including
“Nice People Don't Litter” and “Be a Beauty Bug, Not a Litter Bug.”
