Trails Information
Walk where the dinosaurs roamed.
- Acrocanthosaurus
Make tracks of your own in this park where dinosaurs left their footprints. As you wade across the cool, clear waters of the Paluxy River, look for the footprints of Sauroposeidon proteles, the official state dinosaur of Texas, and Acrocanthosaurus. Explore dinosaur track sites and over 20 miles of trails, which take you to the limestone ridges overlooking the Paluxy River Valley.
Trails
All trails allow hiking and biking unless otherwise indicated.
This list may not include all trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limestone Ledge Trail (hiking only) | 1.5 mi. | 2 hrs. | Moderate | Be prepared to get your feet wet crossing the Paluxy River; then explore the Main Track Site where R.T. Bird discovered the first sauropod trackway in the world. |
| Cedar Brake Outer Loop | 7.5 mi. | 3.5 hrs. | Challenging | This long trail takes you on a looping tour of the park atop limestone ridges crowned by cedar brakes. |
| Black-capped Vireo Trail | 2.7 mi. | 1.25 hrs. | Moderate | Black-capped vireos nest in these shrubby woodlands. |
| Denio Trail | 1.6 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | Watch for endangered golden-cheeked warblers along this winding trail beside Denio Creek. |
| Buckeye Trail | 1.3 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | If you’re lucky, you may see some small waterfalls along this trail beside Buckeye Creek. |
| Rocky Ridge Trail | 1.0 mi. | 30 min. | Moderate | Stop and enjoy the views at the scenic overlooks on this high ridge trail. |
| Oak Springs Trail | 0.3 mi. | 10 min. | Easy | Look for natural, bubbling springs as you walk this winding trail through oak woodlands. |
| Overlook Trail (hiking only) | 0.5 mi. | 30 min. | Challenging | The view of the Paluxy River Valley from the overlook is worth the climb. |
| Horseshoe Equestrian Trail (no biking) |
2.6 mi. | 1 hr. | Moderate | Explore the bluestem grasslands along the edge of the Paluxy River. |
| Paluxy River Trail | 1.9 mi. | 1.3 hrs. | Easy | Discover many different dinosaur tracks as you meander the limestone ledge of the Paluxy River. |
| Monarch Trail | 0.5 mi. | 15 min. | Easy | As you stroll through the trees, stay alert for fluttering birds and butterflies. |
| Discovery Loop Trail | 0.1 mi. | 10 min. | Easy | Introduce the kids to the wonders of nature on this easy, educational trail. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dinosaur Models | 32.2477° | -97.8160° | Take your picture with the dinosaur models featured at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. |
| Main Track Site | 32.2528° | -97.8187° | You’re standing where Roland T. Bird made the world’s first discovery of a sauropod trackway. |
| Blue Hole | 32.2489° | -97.8181° | View theropod tracks on the limestone ledge or take a dip in an old-time swimming hole. |
| Ballroom Track Site | 32.2477° | -97.8189° | Discover hundreds of tracks moving in all directions as if the dinosaurs were dancing! |
| Paluxy River Scenic Overlook | 32.2558° | -97.8201° | Enjoy a spectacular scenic view of the Paluxy River valley. |
| Buckeye Creek | 32.2477° | -97.8036° | Hike the creek bed and experience cascading pools and unique rock formations. |
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 trail to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals may live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on trails. Do not approach wildlife!
- Flash flooding can occur. Be alert to local conditions as weather can change rapidly.
- Trails can be steep and rocky. Watch out for steep cliffs and bluffs. You may find a walking stick helpful. Exercise caution when crossing the river, as the rocks are very slippery. Consider wearing boots or waders.
Trail Etiquette
- Trash your trash. Pack out all of your trash and Leave No Trace.
- Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick. Please do not feed them.
- Don’t Pocket the Past. Help preserve Texas heritage. Leave artifacts where you find them and report their location to a ranger.
- Campfires are not permitted in the backpacking camping area due to potential for ground scarring and wildfires.
