Trails Information
Take to the trails for adventure!
Tallgrass prairie meets rugged limestone at the White Rock Limestone Escarpment. Remnants of historic Texas Blackland Prairie provide important habitat for prairie wildlife and migratory birds.
Trails
All trails are multiuse unless otherwise indicated.
This list may not include all trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Farm Trail | 0.6 mi. | 30 min. | Easy | Take a leisurely stroll around the farmstead and discover a variety of buildings that served the Penn Family for over 100 years. Off-road strollers are welcome on this trail. |
| Talala Trail | 2.3 mi. | 2 hrs. | Moderate | This trail passes through a range of habitats, providing the best opportunity in the park for seeing prairie restoration work up close. |
| Plum Valley Trail | 0.8 mi. | 30 min. | Moderate | Extend your hike by using this connecting trail. This extension includes a second overlook of the unique habitat that occurs because of the convergence of the Tallgrass Blackland Prairies and the White Rock Limestone Escarpment. |
| Duck Pond Trail | 0.8 mi. | 35 min. | Easy | Stretch your legs without making a rigorous trek on this short trail through small open fields, forest habitat, and along the edge of Duck Pond. |
| DORBA Trail (Long) | 12.0 mi. | Biking: 2 hrs. Hiking: 6 hrs. |
Challenging | Named for the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association, three consecutive trails were built by mountain bikers. Intense riding crisscrosses over 1,000 acres of prime mountain bike landscape. |
| DORBA Trail (Medium) | 8.0 mi. | Biking: 1 hr. 20 min. Hiking: 4 hrs. |
Challenging | Covering 8 miles of trail, our blue and green loops are perfect for the dedicated biker. This trail is rugged and challenging, ideal for getting that heart pumping! |
| DORBA Trail (Short) | 3.0 mi. | Biking: 30 min. Hiking: 1 hr. 30 min. |
Challenging | Around 3 miles long, this trail is great for those trying to squeeze in a quick ride after work, or for those who aren’t ready to commit to 8 miles just yet. This route offers views of the lake and plenty of shade. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Farm | 32.6242° | -96.9866° | The Penn Family farmed this valley for over 100 years. Remnant buildings and farm equipment transport us back to a middle-class farm around the turn of the 20th century. |
| Talala Overlook | 32.6175° | -96.9875° | Talala is the Cherokee Indian name for "woodpecker." Enjoy the breathtaking view from the overlook, one of several at the park. |
| Perch Pond | 32.6128° | -96.9970° | A favorite place for kids to fish, a boardwalk over the water invites all ages for a view of swimming fish or turtles. |
| Duck Pond | 32.6085° | -96.9888° | Bring the children for an easy hike to the pond, where you may catch a glimpse of wildlife stopping by for a drink. |
| Plum Valley Overlook | 32.6135° | -96.9826° | This scenic overlook provides views of the Tallgrass Blackland Prairie converging with the White Rock Limestone Escarpment. |
Staying Safe
- Know your limits. Prepare for sun and heat. Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate clothing/hiking shoes.
- Drink plenty of water. Your body quickly loses fluids when you’re on the trail. Bring a quart (32 oz.) of water per hour of activity. Bringing your furry friend? Don’t forget water for them, too!
- Tell others where you’ll be. If possible, avoid exploring alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Wear a helmet when biking. Always ride to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals live here. Stay on the trail and watch where you step.
- You may not be able to connect. It’s a good idea to take along a cell phone and GPS unit, but don’t count on them.
Trail Etiquette
- Trash your trash. Keep the park natural. Pack out all trash and Leave No Trace.
- Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick and more likely to harm to people.
- Don’t Pocket the Past. Help preserve Texas heritage. Leave artifacts where you find them and report their location to a ranger.
- Keep pets on leashes for their safety, and to protect wildlife.
- Be aware of trail closures after any rainfall. Call park headquarters for information regarding trail closures.
