Out Burkett Park > Suzanne's Trail > Roller Coaster > West Potts Creek > Armadillo > Turkey Creek > River Bend > Badlands> Dinosaur Trail > Bell's Trailhead 9.5 miles
Return Bell's Trailhead > Shady Trail > service road (S) > South Slick Rock > Lower Ghost Camp > service road (S) > Burkett Trail > Burkett Park 5.2 miles
Low 60's, partly cloudy, light wind to start and mid 70's, overcast and light wind when I ended.
This hike took me from the park's mid-section along the trails on the western edge of the park to the northern trailhead, Bell's, where I came back on some trails but mostly park service roads.
LOTS of agarita bushes in bloom and their scent was a constant reminder that Spring is here! Wandered at a leisurely pace and enjoyed the scents, sounds and sights of the park.
Another reminder of Spring was seen in the bird activity as well as the younger longhorns beginning to establish their standing in the pecking order by butting heads. Although my hiking route took me among them, I never felt threatened and I stayed away from the contests.
NOTES
Water, shade, info kiosk and dry toilets at Burkett Park.
Water, shade, info kiosk and a porta toilet (unknown how long it will be here) at 5 Points Junction (junction of Turkey Creek and River Bend heading North).
Water, shade and info kiosk at Dinosaur Tracks area. LAST PLACE TO GET WATER FOR HUMANS IF YOU FOLLOW MY ROUTE.
Shade at Bell's Trailhead.
Shade, info kiosk, dry toilets and water for HORSES ONLY at Upper Ghost Camp (along Lower Ghost Camp trail).
Shade and info kiosk at Cougar Overlook.
