This is diverging from the subject of Lake Whitney, but concerning Tyler SP as noted in the previous post: yes, they have all those trails, but don't count on the park map to help you much. I went there a couple years ago on a mid-week day in the fall. I liked the park, especially the trail around the lake. But when I attempted to walk all of "Loop D" and "Loop C" I kept getting lost. The actual trails don't seem to match what is on the map. I had the same problem at Bonham SP. If you look at their map on TPWD website, notice the trails on the Bonham map labeled M-2, M-1, A-2, & A-1. Notice how you cannot follow a particular trail without its name changing at some indeterminate point. While walking at Bonham, I came to a 4-way crossing & all 4 directions were marked as "M-2"!!
After awhile I felt like I was walking on a mobius strip! Geez...one would think they could come up with better systems (and better maps that actually match the facts on the ground). Oh well, I guess that's what happens when you try to cram 10-15 miles of trail in a 300 acre park. The good thing is that in such a small park, you can never really get too badly lost, just keep going and you will hit a park road before too long.
For hiking, I tend to prefer larger parks that have a long loop or long out-and-back trail. Some that are pretty good for that are Bastrop, Lake Somerville, Lake Mineral Wells, Lost Maples, Brazos Bend, Pedernales Falls, Huntsville, and Hill Country SNA.
Sorry, but the mention of the Tyler SP trails reminded me I've been wanting to vent about the confusing trails and bad maps!
Maybe TPWD can put a little of their newfound funds into better trail markings and good maps.
But then again, a day meandering aimlessly on trails is a heck of a lot better than a day at work
I have a vacation coming up in a couple weeks & already looking forward to exploring some new parks (and favorite old ones). Happy trails!
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