Imagine: You’ve stuffed yourself full of Thanksgiving turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and dressing. Chances are, even if you weren’t hungry, you might have shoveled a piece of pumpkin, pecan, and apple pie in that belly too because it’s #2020 and we deserve it. You’re waddling to your recliner or favorite loveseat of choice, and you carefully place your turkey-stuffed self down with a blankie and a Christmas movie. Life is good. But then you remember that the holidays are the time when you have a little less self-control when it comes to various sweets and treats this time of year. You’ve got to get your behind into gear if you want to make it into 2021 with a healthy heartbeat and mind. It’s time to brush off your boots, grab your water container, and go hiking.
No need to exercise your brain too much, because we’ve compiled a list of five San Antonio-area hiking spots where you can shave off that turkey weight.
1. O P Schnabel Trailhead – This beautiful San Antonio park includes 202 acres of natural vegetation to ogle, including oak trees, mountain laurels, and tons of native vegetation. With 8 different trails, anyone from beginner to expert can find something they’d like to hike, from the 0.7-mile “Bluff Loop” to the 7.7-mile Leon Creek Greenway North Trail. Connector trails can be found in between, in case you get really brave and feel like combining several trails together for more ground coverage. Before you go, check out the pavilion center to see if any socially-distanced classes are going to be held in the near future.
2. Salado Creek Greenway – Salado Creek Greenway North (1604 Trailhead) and Salado Creek Greenway South (Oakwell Trailhead) are the north and south entrances to what makes up the giant, city-expansive greenway. Along the trail are several city parks, including Hardberger Park, Walker Ranch Park, McAllister Park, Lady Bird Johnson Park, and Tobin Park. Over 80 miles of developed (and accessible!) trails open from sunrise to sunset, giving nature-lovers and fitness gurus a chance to find a middle ground. Most of the greenway has creekside access, so you can take a little break from your hiking to enjoy the fresh air and creek views.
3. Comanche Lookout Park – The fourth-highest point in Bexar County is waiting for you to reach the top. Hundreds of years ago, the Indigenous People of the area used this hill as a vantage point for hunting and war. When you hike up the trails to the top of the hill, you can enjoy the view of the city for miles. Even though the hiking trail is popular, you’ll find that the trail manages to be somewhat quiet and peaceful. At the top, you’ll also find the four-story medieval-style stone tower built by Army Colonel Edward H. Coppock in February 1923. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail. Small wild rabbits have been known to hop along the trail.
4. Friedrich Wilderness Park – San Antonio Natural Areas are designated areas of wilderness being officially protected by the government, and home to several studies and scientific programs. Often, volunteers come together to help take care of these areas, and Friedrich Wilderness Park is no exception. The park features 600 acres of undeveloped Hill Country terrain and 10 miles of paved and unpaved trails. Some trails are more difficult than others, but others are wheelchair accessible, so all types of hikers can enjoy the natural area. Don’t plan to leash up your pup this time — Friedrich Wilderness Park has a policy of no animals except service animals, including leashed dogs.
- Medina River Natural Area – This beautiful area has 7 miles of trails ready for hikers who want to see a stretch of all kinds of natural features and vegetation. If you’re in the mood to take a more zen hike, make your way to the waterside and listen to the river stream over rocks and through the trees. If you get so comfortable that you wish you could stay, remember that the area has a group camping area available by reservation.
In case you missed it: “Tips for Safe Hunting in South Texas” has some easy-to-follow safety tips for anyone looking to enjoy South Texas hunting this season. After your hike or big hunt, be sure to take some time to plan for your future with our seasoned agents who can help you find the right insurance for your needs. No matter how buttoned-up you feel, it’s good to check with the professionals to make sure you’re actually all covered.
