Take a “walk on the wild side” at McKinney Roughs Nature Park, where hiking trails of every physical level crisscross 1,100 acres of Central Texas beauty. And, if you want, bring your horse and try the pleasant and popular equestrian trails.

In a lovely setting bordered by the Colorado River, you’ll experience the unique convergence of four Texas regions: post oak savannah, blackland prairie, East Texas piney woods and Central Texas plateau. More than 17 miles of well-maintained trails offer multiple choices for experienced and beginner hikers.

“We have a trail for everybody on every physical level,” says Carolyn Nelson, manager of LCRA’s natural science centers. “We have a fairly flat and wide trail accessible to wheelchairs. We also have rugged and primitive trails that Boy Scouts use for training for long treks. All are well marked.”

“A walk in a fairyland”

Hikers have described an experience here as a “walk in a fairyland.” There’s always something different to see, including deer, possum, coyotes, ring-tail cats, armadillos and bobcats. Winter bird migration brings bald eagles, hawks, ducks, geese and even osprey. Plan to spend time at an overlook point with a spectacular view of the Colorado River. Bring a picnic.

At the sign-in desk, staff dispenses maps and suggestions for just the right trails for a grand experience. Hikers can borrow “nature packs,” one for birding with binoculars and a guide book, one for plants with magnifying glass, and a kid pack with bug containers.

McKinney Roughs is known for its shady and soft river bottom trails, which are great for horses. Designated trails are designed for a slow, reasonable pace. Hikers yield to horses on shared trails.

Directions

McKinney Roughs is on State Highway 71 between Austin and Bastrop about 13 miles from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Look for the park’s distinctive rock wall entrance with a windmill. Hiker check-in is at the LCRA office.

Fees and Other Helpful Information

For hikers , fees are $3 for age 15 and older, $1 for 64 and older, and free for children 14 and younger. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Bring a cell phone, water and sun protection. Dogs must be on a leash.

For horseback riders, Honor boxes at trailheads take the $10 daily fee – or you can buy a passbook with a daily fee of $5. Riders must bring their own horses. Equestrian entrances are open sunrise to sunset. To make sure that the trail is open, call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 7427, before loading up your horse and heading to the park.

Enjoy the wildlife.

Enjoy miles of equestrian trails.

Read what Texas Monthly has to say about McKinney Rough’s nature trails in its October issue.