7 Spring Creek Preserve Trail

This trail winds through a dense forest that features some of the region’s oldest trees, including some believed to be more than 300 years old. The preserve is the only spot in the world where eight different types of oaks grow together in one ecosystem, making it a favorite destination in late autumn. This level, paved trail leads to an overlook of a stream where turtles rest atop logs and woodpeckers hammer overhead.

Distance: 0.75 mile out and back

Approximate hiking time: 20 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Trail surface: Paved

Best season: Oct through Dec

Other trail users: None

Canine compatibility: No dogs permitted

Fees and permits: No fees or permits required

Schedule: Preserve open daily 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Maps: TOPO! Texas CD

Trail contacts: Garland Parks and Recreation Department; (972) 205-3589

Society for the Preservation of Spring Creek; (972) 205-2750; www.springcreekforest.org

Special considerations: The trail is wheelchair accessible.

No bikes are allowed on the trail, making it one of the area’s few paved yet bike-free trails.

Finding the trailhead: From Plano take the President George Bush Turnpike East to the Holford Road exit. Turn right (south) onto Holford Road and drive about 0.5 mile. The preserve entrance is on the left at 1770 Holford Rd. GPS: N32 57.864' / W96 39.183'

The Hike

This eighty-three-acre preserve just south of the President George Bush Turnpike in Garland gives a glimpse of what North Texas looked like before it was plowed and paved over. Located in the floodplain of Spring Creek, the preserve’s towering overstory of trees includes eight species of oaks, most prominently chinquapin, Shumard, and bur. Wildlife commonly spotted along the trail include snails, lizards, and turtles parked atop partially submerged logs in the creek. This trail leads to a small viewing area of the creek, where you can relax under the dense canopy and take in the soothing sounds of the rushing water. Unfortunately litter also piles up in the stream, blemishing an otherwise idyllic experience with nature.

Well maintained by the Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest, the trail is easily accessible for all ages and abilities. Those wanting more of a workout, and a bit more solitude, can head across Holford Road to the west side of the park, which features several longer and more primitive, unpaved trails and picnic tables for post-trek treats. This side of the park has younger trees, including short-lived cottonwoods and hackberry trees, and a less-dense canopy that allows for better wildflower blooms. Birders love the preserve, where commonly spotted species include Carolina wrens, tufted titmice, and various hawks.

Miles and Directions

0.0Start at the parking lot. Look for a park sign listing rules and restrictions, and head to adjacent paved trail.

0.1When the trail splits veer right. Follow the trail farther into woods, where it winds along a stream.

0.3The trail dead-ends at a stream. Turn around and follow the path back to the split.

0.5The trail divides. Continue straight to reach a lookout point offering a view of the stream. Turn back and veer right to return to the parking lot.

0.75Arrive back at the parking lot.