EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS
A DAY WITH RANGER JOHN Explore these six hidden gems at Huntsville State Park
STORY & PHOTOS BY MICHELLE WULFSON
Like waking from a summer hibernation spent hiding from the sun , Texans are getting ready to leave behind the arctic drafts of their AC units and make their way back into the great outdoors , as expectations of bearable fall temperatures are on the horizon .
September , October and November are the busiest months for Huntsville State Park , as outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of its offerings . However , with 21 miles of hiking trails and activities including camping , mountain biking , picnics , fishing , swimming , paddling , geocaching , bird watching and overall nature appreciation – the choices of how to spend a day at the state park can be overwhelming .
You might find yourself following the crowds to the over populated swimming area or taking in the well-deserved hype of the Chinquapin trail , but what about the road less traveled ?
Huntsville State Park interpretive ranger John Herron advises on how to avoid the crowds and visit the park like a pro , by checking out these six hidden gems off of the beaten track .
18 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER , 2021