Goat Island Preserve — Attraction in Lancaster

Sketchy locale. Overnight car sleeper was my first sight. Really huge, bulky dog with bleeding ear tips was my second. Walked right up to me and stuck head in my open truck door, sniffing and begging. Tense moments. Other scroungy looking dogs roaming close by. Old entrance sign says firearms prohibited by ordinance.

Significant rain several days earlier, here. Indications of flooding throughout this flood plain area along roads and definitely in preserve. Do not visit here when rainy or immediately after! Place was pretty muddy. My bike built up an unmanageable layer of mud and leaf litter making the ride very strenuous. Quit after about 2.5mi in. "Black gumbo"/ clay soil, common to the region, will build thick layers of clay on your boot soles or tires. You can gain 2" height, no problem. I think the bike did worse than walking would have. Can't recommend a bike here unless you know the soil is completely dry.

Generally, this place is only for the most intrepid soloists. Otherwise, I recommend small groups armed at least with walking sticks of decent length and weight, and maybe pepper spray. I did have...

I've lived in DFW for over a decade and didn't even know this preserve existed in Dallas County. I saw no one on the trail the Saturday morning I visited, which is rare for anywhere I go hiking. The main trail is a gravel road, but there are a lot of side trails that branch off into dirt/grass paths. I explored them some, but only a fraction of what appears to be available. I say this because I can't find a comprehensive map of these trails anywhere online. For some of them, yes, but not for all. Or they are all labled as being part of the same long trail. If you want to see the Trinity River, I'd recommend venturing to the trails on the left. The path is also relatively flat, so it's not strenuous. I didn't explore the area at length, though, so I'm not sure of the terrain once you go more than a couple miles in. If you want solitude on an easy hike, I recommend...

Goat Island Preserve is a must-try for serious hikers in the DFW area! This expansive trail system offers a fantastic variety of well-shaded paths that seem to go on forever. While some light trail maintenance would be beneficial, the sheer mileage and diversity of scenery make it worthwhile. If you enjoy the challenges and beauty of Cedar Ridge Preserve or Cedar Hill State Park, Goat Island Preserve is another excellent option within easy driving distance. The riverside views are particularly beautiful, and the River Trail features unique, old-fashioned benches and swings. I recommend exploring the River Trail! Be aware that Johnny's Riverside Trail had very high grass when I visited, which might be something to consider. For the best experience, wear long pants and be prepared for insects and possibly wild hogs– this is definitely a natural...