Click here for help on how to read this trail guide
Directions:
Length:
Technical Level:
Trail Type:
Configuration:
Trail Map(s):
Fee:
Trails:
Amenities:
Links:
Contact:
Comments:
Photos:
Video:
Trail Review:
8.75 miles
3
singletrack
figure 8
none (trail use only)
n/a
• Picnic areas
• Developed campsites
• Group sites
• Boat ramps
• and more
(830) 964-3341 - USACE
Click here to send an email
• Also check out Old Hancock Trail
currently unavailable
So, you like rock gardens,
do ya’? Drops as big as 3’ or steps nearly as big make you want to clip
in as you read this? Then Madrone Trail is the trail for you! If you
despise rocks (small and big, very big) then stay away from here. With
that said, know that this trail is not recommended for the sub-intermediate
rider. From the very beginning, this trail gives you a taste of what
you are in for, rocky climbs…there are ample opportunities throughout
the nearly 9 miles of trail to hone your rock-riding skills, or check
the trail out with your face. Once you make it through the twisting,
switchback-laced ups and downs of the first two miles, you will cross
the main road. Watch out; this road is actually traveled (think of this
as the 2 mile bail-out; hang a left on the road and you are back to
the parking lot).
On the other side of the road you will find some very sweet singletrack that
wishes it could be considered technical. For about a mile and a half
you will be gliding along, twisting and turning. Don’t worry, the rock
gardens will return (with a vengeance, mind you), before you eventually
make it to the end. All of these glorious rock gardens, steps, drops,
etc. are spaced between stretches of long straight-aways and/or twisting
singletrack so as not to get too old too quickly. If you have been riding
for more than a day then you know what rocks can bring – pinch flats
(well, yes, blood and broken bones, too) – so bring a few tubes or go
tubeless. The best part of Madrone? You are right on Canyon Lake! Take
a dip afterwards or drive up the road a little ways and go tubing. What
better way to cool down after such a fun and demanding ride?
~ MountainBikeTx.com(Apr 2008)