Big Thicket National Preserve
The Trails of Big Thicket
Kirby Nature Trail System: Located in the southern end of the Turkey Creek Unit near the Staley Cabin, this trail, part of a larger system, is a popular double loop trail. The inner loop is 1.7 miles and the outer loop 2.4 miles. The trail meanders through a mixture of hardwoods and pines as well as several types of environments including Baldcypress swamps. As it passes Village Creek, you will see small floodplains. A guide is available at the trailhead.
Turkey Creek Trail: This trail meanders north-south in the Turkey Creek unit. At 15 miles, the trail parallels Turkey Creek and is one of the longest in the Preserve. Access to the trail can be made at four different trailheads dispersed along the trail. Diverse views of sandhill pine uplands, mixed forests, floodplains, and baygalls can be found along this trail.
Pitcher Plant Trial: Found on the northeast side of the Turkey Creek Trail, this short trail (< .2 miles) leads you through a mixed pine forest to the edge of a wetland Savannah. Here you will find one of the four species of carnivorous plants--the pitcher plant.
Sundew Trail: Located in the Hickory Creek Savannah Unit, this trail is fully accessible with two loops. The outer loop is 1.6 miles and the inner loop is .8 miles. Both loops are accessible; the inner loop is mostly boardwalk. Known as a primary area for wildflowers from late spring through summer, you can see pitcher plants and sundew--both carnivorous.
Woodlands Trail: Located at the northwest corner of the Big Sandy Creek Unit, the trail provides length options for hikers. The outermost loop is 5.4 miles. Two other loops are available - 4.5 and 3.3 miles respectively. The trail crosses a great variety of habitats including the Big Sandy Creek floodplain. Dense stands of large hardwood with sparse ground cover can be seen. You can see the reclamation of old pasture land being re-absorbed by nature too.
Beech Woods Trail: ( NOTE: This trail is closed during hunting season each year--from opening day of the State of Texas fall hunting season through the second Sunday in January. Call 409-951-6725 for exact dates.) Near the southwest corner of the Beech Creek Unit, this 1.0 mile loop trail is accessed by a short walk on an old dirt road. The hike will take you through an outstanding mature beech and magnolia tree forest.
Beaver Slide Trail: Found on the southeast corner of the Big Sandy Creek Unit, this short 1.5 mile loop trail meanders around a series of ponds formed by old beaver dams. The trail is a great access to the Big Sandy Creek Unit and several fishing spots.
Big Sandy Creek Horse/Bike Trail: (NOTE: This trail is closed during hunting season each year--from opening day of the State of Texas fall hunting season through the second Sunday in January. Call 409-951-6725 for exact dates.) Located in the southeast portion of the Big Sandy Creek Unit. the trail is reached from the area near Dallardsville, Texas. This loop trail is 18 miles long - the longest in the Preserve. Horses and mountain bikes are allowed. The trail crosses upland pine forests and beech-magnolia-loblolly pine slopes before entering a floodplain forest of basket oak, sweetgum, hornbeam and holly. You will have to bring your own horse or mountain bike. There are no rentals in that area.
The Canoe Trails of Big Thicket
Cook's Lake Canoe Trail: An easy water trail located in the Beaumont Unit of the Preserve bounded on the south by Pine Island Bayou and the east by the Neches River. You will need a copy of Canoe Cook's Lake and it is suggested you use a detailed map of this area during your trip. There is a subtle blending of two similar plant communities--the Swamp Forest and Floodplain Communities. The prominent trees are Baldcypress and water tupelo.
Franklin Lake Canoe Trail: Located in the Jack Gore Baygall Unit, the canoe trail is bounded by the Neches River and Black Creek on the east and Preserve boundary on the west. You will need a copy of Canoe Franklin Lake and it is suggested you use a detailed map of this area during your trip. The paddle will take you through a Baldcypress slough twisting along an ancient bluff-line of the Neches River.
A note about pets:
Pets are allowed in Big Thicket National Preserve provided that visitors abide by the following regulations or restrictions:
1. Pets must be restrained on leashes no longer than six ( 6 ) feet in length ( 1.8 meters ).
2. Pets are prohibited at any special event or program open to the public and in all areas designated for hunting, trapping, and camping during times established for these activities.
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