2025 52 Weeks of Hiking: Hike 2—Great Blue Heron and Hawkeye Trail Loop

Overview

Discover this 2.8-mile loop trail near Roanoke, Texas. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 55 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Some portions of the route may be inaccessible after heavy rain as the area is prone to flooding. Overall, the hike is great for a quick walk in the park and travels through various environments. There is an abundance of wildlife to observe along the way. The surface varies from navigating through tall grass to wide-mowed sections of the trail.

2.8mi Length

124ft Elevation gain

0h 55m Estimated time

Loop

Review

The Great Blue Heron and Hawkeye Trail Loop in Texas is a delightful and scenic trail that offers a refreshing outdoor experience. This 3.4-mile loop (longer than what AllTrails lists) is perfect for hikers looking for a moderate challenge. The trail weaves through diverse landscapes, including wetlands, wooded areas, and open fields, offering various beautiful views.

During my hike, the weather was overcast and cold, which added a bit of a chill to the adventure but didn't take away from the beauty of the surroundings. The cool, crisp air made for a pleasant hike, and the slight cloud cover kept the sun at bay, making it comfortable for hiking.

One important tip: Wear waterproof hiking boots when crossing the creek. The water levels were slightly higher than expected due to recent rain, and keeping feet dry while navigating the rocks was a bit tricky. Waterproof boots made the crossing much more manageable and helped keep my feet warm and dry, which was essential in the colder conditions.

Overall, the Great Blue Heron and Hawkeye Trail Loop is a great trail for anyone exploring nature in Texas. It’s well-maintained, easy to follow, and offers a nice mix of terrain and wildlife. Definitely recommended for anyone in the area, just be sure to come prepared for potentially wet conditions when crossing the creek!