Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk/Ruck

Join us for a walk in honor of those we have lost and in support of those who are struggling to settle into life after their service.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and several Texas State Parks will be hosting hikes to shed light on this issue, which affects many veterans and their loved ones. The Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck Hike, an annual event organized by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Veteran’s Liaison Nicole Mechler, allows families, friends and veterans to network and build a support system, as well as spread the word about veteran-specific mental health issues.

The designated route will start at the Day Use Picnic Area (north Rec Hall parking lot). We'll walk down Redfish Road, then down Trout Street to the end of the fishing pier, then back to the Day Use parking lot, totaling about 2.5 miles. Visitors can choose to return to the starting point at any time and can hike weighted or unweighted. Rucking is welcome but not required. If you are rucking, please provide your own weighted ruck.

We encourage you to bring flags or wear memorabilia. This hike is open to all ages. Minors must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.

Meet: Day Use parking lot
When: Introductions start at 9:30am
Maximum distance: 2.5 miles over relatively flat terrain over pavement. Some areas may be sandy. Visitors can choose to return to the starting point at any time.

How to Prepare:

Dress for hiking outdoors. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, bug spray and a hat are recommended. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person in a refillable bottle and if desired, a snack. We will have water stations at a couple of strategic locations for refills.

Registration is NOT required. This event is free with the purchase of your entrance permit ($5/adult, kids 12yrs and under are free). To ensure entrance and save time at park headquarters, please pre-purchase and print out a day pass. Day passes can be reserved beginning one month before the date of your visit.

VETERANS and ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY: Check out our Parklands Passports, which provide you with free entry to all Texas State Parks. You can bring your documentation and register for your passport at our headquarters or any other TX State Park. Note that these are best obtained in advance. Waiting until the day of the event will slow you down, as our headquarters does not open until 8:30 am and our staff may be serving many visitors.

If ADA assistance is required, please request modifications using this form, or email accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov at least 2 weeks in advance.