Three Hikes
Easy: 40-Acre Lake Trail (1.2-mile loop)
This classic lake loop offers visitors a good chance of seeing alligators. Many birds and other animals make their homes here, too. Egrets and herons wade in shallow water, and common gallinules stride across the aquatic vegetation. Ducks paddle by in groups. Alligators lurk submerged in the water with their eyes and snouts just above the surface. The trail is mostly wide and flat. Halfway through, a multistory observation platform gives views across the park.
Moderate: Red Buckeye Trail (1.4 miles)
This trail meanders through the woods and features views of Big Creek and the Brazos River. Wooded areas provide good shade. This less visited part of the park offers a chance to get away from the crowds. “In the spring, it’s almost like a rainforest,” says Park Superintendent Jason Castle. “The red buckeye trees produce these amazing red flowers that attract all kinds of cool butterflies.”
Challenging: Creekwood Lake Trail (6 miles)
The two Creekwood Lake trails provide a rigorous, remote experience in the Brazos Bend backcountry. It’s a 2-mile hike just to get to the access point. No gators here — just acres of dense forest.
Maegan Lanham | TPWD