Passport to Texas

Family takes time to view wildlife while on a state park hike.

State Park Hiking Events for National Trails Day Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Saturday, June 6th is National Trails Day–a nationwide event organized by the American Hiking Society to create awareness about the variety of trails across the country.

You can go to any park any time and find a trail to explore, but on National Trails Day parks statewide host special guided hiking events. We’ll focus on two events out west.

If you are in the El Paso area, the Wyler Arial Tramway at Franklin Mountains State Park hosts a 7 a.m., mile-long hike up Ranger Peak with a short Leave No Trace workshop prior getting underway. At the top of Ranger Peak you can enjoy a 7,000 square mile view of three
states and two nations. This hike is moderate to strenuous due to the incline.

Big Bend Ranch State Park offers a round trip 1.5 mile hike that starts at 9 a.m. June 6th and will take in the spectacular panoramic views from the top of the ridge trail. It’s a strenuous 2.5 hour hike; they recommend wearing a long sleeved shirt and long pants, and bringing at least 20 ounces of water with you.

In fact, anytime you go hiking, wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and bring plenty of water, a snack, and a walking stick if you like.

For more information about National Trails Day June 6th and to sign-up for these and other guided hikes, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, or call the parks directly.

That’s our show… For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

Hiking at McKinney Falls State Park in November 1974.

National Trails Day Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

This is Passport to Texas

Saturday June 6th is National Trails Day. And as it happens, hiking is a popular activity at Texas State Parks.

05- Our trails really give people an opportunity to experience everything about state parks.

Thomas Wilhelm works with state parks, and says hikers and walkers of all abilities have the unique opportunity to experience nature up close and personal on the trails during National Trails Day, June 6th and every day.

12- We have hikes from beginner level paved hikes all the way to very difficult hikes. So, regardless of your skills or your interests –
there’s a trail that’s perfect for you [in a state park].

This includes equestrian trails and ADA Accessible trails. The trails in Texas State Parks offer hikers opportunities to experience native flora and fauna, as well as solitude, peace and calm. And, for those who like to exercise their brain along with their bodies…

15-There’s also opportunities with interpretive hikes that have panels along the way that explain what’s happening. So, you’re either learning something about nature or about history — or whatever it may be. So it’s both a relaxing experience or an enlightening experience.

Celebrate National Trails Day June 6th by finding a trail that’s just right for you at texasstateparks.org.

That’s our show for today…Funding provided in part by Ram Trucks. Guts. Glory. Ram.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife, I’m Cecilia Nasti.