Veterans Mental Health Awareness Hike/Ruck

Join us as we walk to break the stigma around mental health and support veterans and families impacted by the unseen wounds of service.

The Harlan High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard will present the colors at the Amphitheater to get us started...don't miss it! Gather about 8:15 am to get in position. We expect a long line at the Fee Booth, so please arrive by 7:45 am to allow time to get through the line. 

Suggested walking routes are the 2.12-mile Savannah Loop (rocky, rough natural surface), the 4.75-mile Lytle's Loop (a longer option also with a rocky and rough surface), or the 1.25-mile Discovery Trail (accessible surface near the Visitor Center for those with mobility concerns). Hikers on either trail can do as many laps as they feel comfortable with, and can hike weighted or unweighted. Rucking is welcome but not required. If you are rucking, please provide your own weighted ruck. We will have a pack scale for your use at the Frontcountry Trailhead and at the Visitor Center. 

We encourage you to bring flags or wear memorabilia if you wish.

Who Is Invited:

This hike is open to all ages. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.

Where to Meet: 

Park in Lot C to check in and hike Savannah or Lytle's Loop. After checking in, those who wish to use the Discovery Trail may want to move to park in Lot A or B nearer the Visitor Center. 

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 and if desired, a snack. We will have water at the trailhead for refills, and a number of tables staffed by volunteers from organizations with mental health missions. 

Registration is NOT required. Entrance fees to the Natural Area do apply. We often fill to capacity. To ensure entrance and save time at the Fee Booth, 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 (including GCSNA). You can bring your documentation and register for your passport at our Visitor Center 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 Visitor Center does not open until 8:30 am and our staff may be serving many visitors. 

Most Government Canyon SNA Trails close after heavy rain events. Check trail conditions by calling GCSNA's main office at 210-688-9055, or go to the GCSNA webpage, Instagram, or Facebook. This event will move to the Discovery Trail if the rest of the trails are closed. 

If ADA assistance is required, please request modifications using this form, or email accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov at least 30 days in advance.