Davis Mountains State Park

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Trails Information

Information on the trails and points of interest at Davis Mountains State Park.

illustration of javelina next to prickly pear cactus
Javelina

Explore trails that range from high adventure to peaceful stroll.

Whether you’re a mountain biker, equestrian, hiker or trail runner, Davis Mountains State Park offers what your heart desires. Scenic vistas and abundant wildlife are around every corner. Breathe in the mountain air and experience the same sensation that the young men of the CCC did. They built this park in the 1930s to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Trails

This list may not include all trails at the park.

Biking trails are designated at trailhead. On multiuse trails, hikers yield to horseback riders, and bikers yield to both hikers and horseback riders.

Trail Distance Time Difficulty Description
Headquarters Trail 0.3 mi. one-way 10-15 min. Easy Take an easy scenic walk with views of Keesey Canyon below and a 35-million-year-old lava flow above, ending at the Emory Oak Wildlife Viewing Area.
Montezuma Quail Trail 0.9 mi. one-way 1 hr. Moderate - Challenging From the wildlife viewing area, quickly climb 220 feet for canyon and Indian Lodge views. Walk a short ridge and finish with a sharp descent to the campground.
Indian Lodge Trail 1.5 mi. one-way 1.5 hrs. Challenging Begin behind Indian Lodge, ascending to stunning views of the Davis Mountains. End by taking the short stretch of the Montezuma Quail Trail to the campground, or the longer stretch to headquarters.
Skyline Drive Trail 2.6 mi. one-way 2 hrs. Moderate - Challenging From the Interpretive Center, ascend 544 feet to Keesey Canyon Overlook. Follow Skyline Drive to see historic buildings and views of Fort Davis and local landmarks. End at the CCC trailhead.
Limpia Creek Trail 2.4 mi. one-way 2 hrs. Moderate - Challenging From the parking lot follow an easy flat trail through Limpia Canyon, then slowly climb 550 feet to Sheep Pen Canyon Loop junction, enjoying amazing views of the Davis Mountains.
Sheep Pen Canyon Loop 5.6 mi. 3-4 hrs. Moderate Traverse a mountain plateau through oak-juniper forests, high desert grasslands and some of the park’s best views! Find a well and trail spurs to primitive camping and Limpia Creek Vista.
Old CCC Trail 1.6 mi. one-way 1.5 hrs. Moderate Enjoy the road used by the CCC during 1930s park construction, now a hiking and mountain biking trail. At the top, continue onto Skyline Drive Trail or the Fort trail.
Trails at Davis Mountains State Park

Points of Interest

GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.

Point Latitude Longitude Description
Skyline Drive 30.5958° -103.9302° Paved switchbacks take you to historic stone structures as well as incredible views during day hikes or evening stargazing.
The King's Table 30.5998° -103.9060° Find the unobtrusive stone stairway down to a hidden picnic site with spectacular views.
Trailhead to Fort Davis National Historic Site 30.6001° -103.9055° A short walk from the CCC Overlook. The fort is a one-mile hike from the state park boundary.
Keesey Canyon Overlook 30.5917° -103.9275° Enjoy picturesque views from this high point on the Skyline Drive Trail.
Interpretive Center 30.5955° -103.9303° Don't miss the exhibits, wildlife viewing area and pollinator garden!
Indian Lodge 30.5925° -103.9435° This beautiful white adobe lodge is a part of the CCC's legacy in Texas.
Emory Oak Wildlife Viewing Area 30.5961° -103.9348°  "Fanciest little bird blind in Texas." Enclosed building with a view of a water feature and bird feeders.
Headquarters Trail 30.5992° -103.9296° Easy walk to a wildlife viewing area, with a taste of park flora and views.
Limpia Creek Vista 30.6070° -103.9212° The park's highest point, and reward for a 700-foot ascent. Cameras are a must.
Points of Interest at Davis Mountains State Park

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 of water per hour of activity.
  • 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, check with park HQ to match the ride to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
  • 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.
  • Wild animals and desert plants live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on trails.
  • Consider your pet. Rocky terrain can injure paw pads, and pets feel the heat on sparsely shaded trails.

Trail Etiquette

  • Trash your trash. Keep the park natural. Pack out all of your trash and Leave No Trace.
  • Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick and more likely to harm people.
  • Take only memories and pictures. Please don’t disturb or remove any of the park’s plants, animals, rocks or artifacts.
  • Burn ban may be in effect. Check with park staff for status. No fires permitted in the primitive area.