Short Loop Trail
By Blaze on 2/2/2013
Rating:
Difficulty:
Solitude:
Distance: 1.00 Mile Duration: 45 minutes
Sweetleaf Nature Trail sits right off FM1488. You have to be on the lookout for it because there's only a small sign indicating where it is. You might miss it while speeding down FM1488 at 60mph.
On the day I went, the gate to the dirt road entrance was closed. Fortunately, right across the street is the WG Jones State Forest recreation area which has a small dirt parking lot.
After braving the crossing of FM1488 on foot, I stepped over the gate and walked about 1/4 mile before getting to the nature trailhead. The trail basically parallels a small meandering stream. The trail is well-marked and has many wood bridges along the way to help improve footing. At the far-end of the loop, there is a small suspension bridge which is kind of fun since it flexes and swings when you walk across it. Kids will love it.
I did see a deer, but there's not much solitude because of the noise of traffic roaring down FM1488 nearby. It is a cool, little escape, however, if you want a getaway.