Last Sunday Hike - Schaeffer Shuffle

Join a park ranger on a guided hike through the Western foothills of the Franklin Mountains.

Length: 2.6 miles

Trail Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult. Steep initial descent down old jeep road; transition to relatively well maintained trail with technical sections into the canyon, leveling out along the ridgeline, then another steep and technical descent down the backside before becoming an easy leisurely stroll down the trail. We’ll reconnect with the old jeep road and have one final steep ascent back up to the start of the trail.

Reservations required; to reserve your spot, call the office at (915) 444-9121.

 Bring: water, snacks, hiking boots/shoes, and comfortable clothes.

 Optional: binoculars, hiking stick, camera, and a map.

 Meeting location: Meet at the West Cottonwood Spring Trailhead. When you enter Tom Mays, stop by the Visitor Center and let the Ranger on duty know you are part of the hike. This is where you will pay the fee. Take the first right after passing the booth and find a parking space. 

 Fee: $5 for adults 13 years old and up; $0 for Texas State Park Pass holders and children 12 and under. 

 Directions:

From Westside on I-10, take exit 6 & travel east towards mountains for 3.8 miles. Park entrance will be on the left. 

From Eastside on Hwy 54, take exit 29 towards Transmountain Rd, travel west 7-7.5 miles through the mountains. Park entrance will be on the right.

If using a GPS be sure to search for "2900 Tom Mays Access Road," not "Franklin Mountains State Park."