Trails Information | Del Norte Unit
Explore a hidden oasis and peaceful retreat.
- Tropical Parula
Three ecoregions collide at the Del Norte Unit of Devils River State Natural Area, making it home to the beautiful tropical parula and Devils River minnow. Hike to Devils River to see Finegan Springs, one of many that supply the river its crystal-clear waters. Enjoy hiking trails, bird-watching and savoring the solitude.
People have appreciated these resources for thousands of years and we hope you do, too.
- Del Norte Unit Trails Map
- Dan A. Hughes Unit trails information
- Use the trails maps anytime, anywhere by downloading a comprehensive map to your phone or GIS-compatible device.
Trails
Trails are hiking and biking.
This list may not include all trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newton Loop | 0.1 mi. | Easy | Cactus wrens often serenade as you hike down a native plant pathway. View birds from our two blinds. The Newton family once ranched in this area, leaving remnants of historic ranching structures. |
| 12-Mile Loop | 12.4 mi. | Challenging | Enjoy spectacular landscape views and encounter historic structures left by the Fawcett family who once ranched this land. |
| Firebreak Trail | 2.5 mi. | Challenging | Backcountry vistas of sprawling canyons await those who tackle this trail built for the protection of natural resources. |
| Finegan Springs Trail | 1.4 mi. | Moderate | Tread lightly as you hike along the river, passing through the multiple water crossings of the Finegan Springs. Wildlife call this oasis home, and bird-watching is exceptional along the river tree canopy. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | Description |
| Visitor Center and Exhibits | 29.9410° | -100.9713° | Check-in for registration and orientation and view the exhibits about the Natural Area's resources. |
| Newton Pens Picnic Area | 29.9179° | -100.9855° | Enjoy a picnic area near historic ranching structures. |
| Newton Birding Blinds | 29.9173° | -100.9862° | Two birding blinds are located on the Newton Loop, a great place to see the Natural Area's feathery friends. |
| 12-Mile Loop Access Point: Northeast | 29.9414° | -100.9280° | Access point with adjacent parking. |
| 12-Mile Loop Access Point: Southwest | 29.9071° | -100.9930° | Access point with adjacent parking. |
| River Gate Parking Area | 29.8972° | -100.9903° | Park here for a 1/3-mile hike down to Devils River. |
| Devils River Oak Tree | 29.8971° | -100.9965° | Look for wildlife and birds such as the tropical parula in these oak habitats. |
| Finegan Springs | 29.9000° | -100.9982° | Finegan Springs, named for a previous property owner, feeds the river an impressive of 12,000-22,000 gallons of water per minute. |
| Windmill | 29.9125° | -100.9688° | This windmill is a remnant of the Natural Area's ranching heritage. It's a good trail reference point at about 2.2 miles from the junction with Devils River Road and 3.8 miles from the 12-Mile Loop parking area. |
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.
- Weather changes quickly. Check forecasts before you leave and prepare for changes in the weather.
- 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.
- Family-friendly fun. Public consumption or display of alcoholic beverages is prohibited and NO glass is permitted at the river.
- Save wildlife habitat. No ground fires or gathering of firewood.
Trail Etiquette
- Take only memories and pictures. Disturbing or removing any of the park’s plants, animals or artifacts is a violation of state law.
- Don’t Pocket the Past. Help preserve Texas heritage. Leave artifacts where you find them and report their location to a ranger.
- Protect your pets and wildlife. Keep pets on leashes and clean up and dispose of pet waste.
- Pack it in, pack it out. We’re a remote park with no garbage service, so pack out all your trash and Leave No Trace.
