How to Hike Hale Lake in Texas

Popular with both hikers and cyclists, Hale Lake trail in Brazos Bend State Park is typically busy. The lush forest and lake are popular attractions for visitors from nearby Houston. Alligators can be spotted sunning themselves along the lakeshore during warm weather, and the park features a well-maintained, developed campground.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Snacks and water
• Loose, layered seasonal clothing
• Trash bags for carrying out waste
• Insect repellent

1. Take US 59 southwest from Houston for about 25 miles to FM 2759.
2. Take FM 2759 southwest for about 1.7 miles to FM 762, and continue south on FM 762 about 15 miles to Brazos Bend State Park entrance.
3. Take the main park road about 3 miles to the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail parking area.
4. Start the trail by following the paved Creekfield Lake Nature Trail toward the George Observatory.
5. Go right about 1/4 of a mile past the observatory onto a new dirt trail.
6. Take a right at a fork when you arrive at Hale Lake and circle the lake.
7. Continue the loop around the lake, passing through a picnic area with water and restrooms.
8. Follow the circle back to it's starting point and take a right to return to the trailhead.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch for alligators sunning along the lake shore, and keep a safe distance from them.
• Camping is available.
• Water is available at the picnic area on Hale Lake.
• During summer insects are thick, so bring insect repellent.