Hike through shady pine forests, explore steep canyons, or meander through wildflower meadows. McKinney Roughs has nearly 18 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing the park's 1,100 acres and offering comfortable strolls to challenging treks. When you are finished with your hike, return to our Visitors' Center to peruse our gift shop and interactive exhibits. There you can learn more about native animals and why the "River is the Reason" that McKinney Roughs is such a special place.

Hikers of all ages enjoy miles of trails at McKinney Roughs.

Types of trails

• Near the Visitors' Center, you will find our Demonstration Trail giving tips for water wise planting, rainwater harvesting and and wildscaping your own backyard.
• Ridge Trail is an ADA trail along a box canyon, providing lovely views of the park and an easy excursion for families with children.
• Other trails range from easy to challenging and accomodate both hikers and equestrians. Several trails are limited to hikers only. The trail guide has more details. (You need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it.)

Three nature packs
Included in the day-use fee is the opportunity to borrow one of three different nature packs offered at the nature park:

• Birding Pack -- includes binoculars and a guide book.
• Plant Pack -- comes with a magnifying glass and explanation of what plants to look for.
• Kid Pack -- includes bug containers and children’s books describing the plants, birds and insects found at the park.

Trail Safety 

• Please  stay on the trails to reduce the impact on the environment.
• Keep in mind that hikers and horseback riders share many of the trails. Hikers should always yield to horses.
• Always check in with the visitor's center before hiking, pay your fee and get a trail map and information
• If possible, carry a cell phone in case of emergency. (Emergency numbers are provided on trail maps.)
• Many of the trails are long and rugged, so:
  • Know your own and your companions activity levels and plan your hike accordingly (the front desk can give you advice on suitable hikes).
  • Take enough water with you and remember to drink it
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection and carry insect repellant.

Prohibitions
To provide the safest outdoor experience for all, follow these rules:

• No motorized vehicles.
• No bicycles.
• No ground fires.
• No smoking.
• No overnight camping.
• Do not remove, destroy or deface any wildlife, flora, fauna, rocks, artificats or other natural objects.

Pets: Leashed dogs are allowed on most of the park's trails. They must remain on a leash at all times. Please plan to pick up and dispose of pet waste.

Fees

• Hiking Fees: $3 for adults, $1 seniors, no charge for children 13 and under.
• Horseback Riding Fees: $10 per person. Riders provide their own horses.

For more information: contact McKinney Roughs at (512) 303-5073 or 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 8021, or e-mail outdoorprograms@lcra.org.