MountainBikeTx.com

Directions:

Length:

Technical Level:

Trail Type:

Configuration:

Trail Map(s):

Fee:

Trails:

Amenities:

Links:

Contact:

Comments:

Photos:

Video:

Trail Review:

MapIt!

15 miles

2

doubletrack; ranch road; singletrack

network  |  out and back

HPRD (park)  |  HPRD (trails)

$3 per person 13 and older/day use (annual pass available for $25)

Peach Creek Loop  |  Logging Loop  |  Forest Trail
River Trail North  |  River Trail South

• Walk-in campsites with a lantern post, picnic table, fire ring, and grill
• Picnic pavilion
• Shower building with restrooms

HPRD website

(281) 354-6881 - Park Office
(713) 865-4500 - HPRD main office
Click here to send an email

unavailable

  Lake Houston Park, formerly Lake Houston State Park, is another one of those trails that are great for riding if you are passing through or on your way there for other reasons, but not a trail system that I would drive several hours to ride (although I did). The trails here are 95% doubletrack, with a few short stretches of ranch road, and a hint of singletrack thrown in for good measure. Actually, I think most of the "singletrack" is simply doubletrack that is partially overgrown. Like most trails in East Texas, elevation change is minimal, making Lake Houston very beginner-friendly.
  Shortly after leaving the park HQ, you will come to a bridge that spans the width of Peach Creek. Cross here and you have three choices: jump on Peach Creek Trail Loop either to your left or right, or continue straight to either take Forest Trail or Stable Road. If you continue straight, either by way of Forest Trail or Stable Road, you will eventually come to a ranch road that goes left or right. The choice is yours as to which way to go, but in retrospect, going left (riding Logging Loop Trail clockwise) seems like it may have been the better choice. Logging Loop Trail, along with North & South River Trail, provides you with more than your fill if you are a doubletrack fan. If you decide to take River Trail North out to East Fork San Jacinto River you have the opportunity to cool off by way of the rope swing that hangs from the tree overhanging the river (see photo). Many sections of Lake Houston’s trails which are highly prone to flooding have had platform paths built and many more are in the process of being built (see photos). Trail Markers are located along the trails and at most intersections/turns to help you stay oriented to the map. Also, most of these locations provide a bench to take a break. Speaking of needing a break, if you are looking for a little extra mileage, consider taking the ranch road down to Lake Isabel for an additional 5 miles.
  The best asset Lake Houston has to offer to mountain bikers hands down is the Peach Creek Trail Loop. Unfortunately, my trip found half of it closed due to construction. Nevertheless, the half that I rode was the highlight of my visit to Lake Houston. I recommend riding the loop clockwise, as this puts you descending the one downhill section I came across. It also leads you alongside Peach Creek for a scenic little ride. Much of Peach Creek is wide enough that the skills necessary to negotiate tight, twisting turns are not required. In other words, there is adequate room for error and, as a result, a great place to introduce someone to actual mountain biking.
~ MountainBikeTx.com(Apr 2010)

  Lake Houston Park charges a $3 fee but the fee is very minimal when you consider the time that you can spend riding these long trails. There are a couple of loops, but the trails are very scenic with an occasional drop and dip to keep you entertained. These are not very technical but if your goal is ride some trails thru the woods this is the place for you. The wildlife is also present in this area and the park warns you about poisonous snakes, but I did not see any on my ride. The park also offers various rest stops and bathrooms and a nature center with maps of all the hike and bike trails.
~ M. Medina