Place

Beech Woods Trail

Subtle fall colors of red, orange, and brown on the trees lining a trail. — Fall colors on the Beech Woods Trail
NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga

Benches/Seating, Grill, Parking - Auto, Pets Allowed, Picnic Table, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Big Thicket is at the extreme southwest limit of the American beech's native range. Hike through a shaded forest of beeches on this easy trail.

Distance: 1½ miles roundtrip
Type: Out-and-back and loop combination
Location: Beech Creek Unit
Trailhead: Parking lot on FM 2992
Lat/Long: 30.719469, -94.227299

Overview

The Beech Woods Trail begins at the parking lot on Farm to Market Road (FM) 2992. Walk past the metal gate and follow an old dirt road down a forested corridor until you reach a junction marked with a wooden trail sign. Turn right at the trail sign and follow the meandering trail through the woods. The next junction marks the beginning of the loop section; go left or right to continue.

After completing the loop, return the way you came.

Accessibility

The trail is mostly flat, on a leaf-covered dirt path and flat wooden bridges, and wide enough for a wheelchair. There are a few sections with exposed tree roots.