Out Burkett Park > Suzanne's Trail > Rollercoaster> West Potts Creek > Armadillo > Turkey Creek > 5 Points Junction > River Bend > Badlands> Dinosaur Trail > service road (N) > Bell's Trailhead 10.3 miles
Return Bell's Trailhead > Shady Trail > service road (WSW) > South Slick Rock > Lower Ghost Camp > service road (S) > Cougar Overlook > service road (WSW) > Burkett Trail (S) > Burkett park 5.9 miles
Temps started at 52 and ended at 67, sunny and a pretty steady Northerly wind.
A long hike I wanted to do while the weather was cooler. Note to self - don't wear wool socks! I had holes on both socks at the same place - the ball of each foot now has a sizeable blister, no fun.
The hike otherwise was enjoyable. I saw lots of birds including Turkeys (photo attached), quail, different sparrows, a Vermillion Flycatcher (second I've seen at the park), Ash Throated Flycatchers and a Myrtles Warbler (second at the park). Later by the river, large alligator turtles were floating and I spooked a Great Blue Heron. Near Cougar Overlook there were a few longhorns with their calves so I gave them a wide berth.
The trails are dry and decent although with Spring finally here, some of the trails North of 5 Points Junction, have spots that are "shaggy" with vegetation but I was able to go through it.
No snakes or other reptiles and no animals, today was Bird Day.
NOTES
Water, shade, info kiosk and dry toilets available at Burkett Park.
Water, shade, and info kiosk available at 5 Points Junction.
Water, shade and info kiosk availabe at the Dinosaur Tracks Viewing area along Dinosaur Trail.
Water, shade and info kiosk available at Bell's Trailhead. You have to look for the water receptacle North of the dumpster in the park.
Shade and info kiosk available at Cougar Overlook.
