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 Reporter |
Summary: The most interesting sights along this trail are the old McKinney Homestead (which gave the trail its name) and the ruins of the old gristmill. There are small displays near each of these giving more information about their history. The trail itself is narrow but well-defined and usually not very busy. You will typically see bikers on this trail more than other hikers. The trail varies from heavily wooded to out in the open in some sections. About half-way through the loop, you will find a small building that has an outdoor picnic table you can stop and take a break at. Trailhead: Enter McKinney Falls State Park and drive through the ranger station. Park admittance is $2 per adult. Proceed down the main driveway and make the first right. Park near the end of the road where it dead-ends. From here, walk down to the creek and waterfall area. You need to cross the creek, an easy task during summer when the water is low. Use caution when crossing if the water is high. You will see signs on the other side of the creek for the trail. You can walk this loop in either direction, starting near the old gristmill or the homestead ruins. (Lat:30.1887 Lon:-97.7205) Trail Guides for Homestead Trail: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: McKinney Falls Park HQ, 512-243-1643 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bryan Swain, who has posted 9 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Curt on 4/15/2008 I am from out of town. The cost to get into McKinney Falls State Park has gone up and it now costs 4 dollars per person for entrance. Trail was in good condition but it was not very wide and the plants were constantly brushing up against us. It was beautiful under the canopy of the trees but there isn't a lot to see other than the plant life. 
Reviewed by Maggie on 4/15/2005 I love this trail too. I hike this in park at least twice a week. This trail is great, but wear bug spray. The trail is kind of small and you have lots of tall grass brushing you as you hike. As you know, that is prime chigger land!! Also, McKinney Falls has a high population of cotton mouths along the grassy shores. I have run into three of them over the last two weeks. All three were very large in size, and not far from where people were playing near the falls. Please know that I have also seen one rattle snake on the rocky hill part of the trail last summer. Beware where you are hiking. Poison Ivy is abundant too. Stay on the trails and you should be fine. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Texas Hiking, Texas Trails, Texas Hikes, Travis County Hiking, Travis County Trails, Travis County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||