Last updated: November 4, 2024
Place
Longleaf Pine Trail
NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
Quick Facts
Location:
Kountze, TX
Amenities
13 listed
Bicycle - Rack, Information, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Pets Allowed, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Water - Bottle-Filling Station, Water - Drinking/Potable
The Longleaf Pine Trail is Big Thicket's newest trail! Opened in 2024 to celebrate the preserve's 50th anniversary, the trail begins at the visitor center and leads to a small observation platform in a longleaf pine savannah.
Distance: 1 mile roundtrip out-and-back
The Hike
To begin, follow the boardwalk from the visitor center parking lot toward park headquarters. Trail signs point the way; head to the right along the service road, go past the maintenance yard, then go left to where the trail begins at the edge of the woods. From here, follow the winding path through shady forest, over small bridges, and eventually to a sunny, open longleaf pine forest.
Eventually the trail meets an old road; turn right (south) along the road until you reach the newly-constructed observation platform. Look for woodpeckers flying among the pines, scan for wildflowers, or just enjoy the solitude.
A little further past the platform, a 3-sided panel provides information about the preserve's ongoing longleaf pine restoration project. Many of the young longleaf pines in this area were planted by volunteers.
To return to the visitor center, retrace your steps.
Picnic Area
There are 8 picnic tables under pavilions in the visitor center parking area.
Getting Here
Address:
Big Thicket Visitor Center
6102 FM 420
Kountze, TX 77625
Follow signs to the visitor center. The trail begins on the east side of the parking area.
Accessibility
Surfaces on the trail include wooden boardwalk, unpaved road, and hard-packed soil covered in pine needles and leaves. The trail is wide enough for a wheelchair. There are some exposed tree roots. The elevation is mostly flat with a couple of small dips down to bridges. The platform has an accessible ramp.