About
Length (round trip)14.7 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Typical time7 hr 15 min
TrailheadBig Sandy Trail
ParkingThe trailhead is located on Sunflower Road, west of FM 1276 in Dallardsville.
SurfaceSandy
Best season<p>Hunting is allowed in this area Oct-Feb; wear orange if you hike Big Sandy Trail during hunting season.</p>
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityThe Big Sandy Trail follows wide, old dirt roads. Trail users can expect to encounter tree roots, muddy stream crossings, and washboarded sections. While the grade is gentle, there are prolonged uphill and downhill sections.
What you'll see 🌊 River or creek🚲 Bikes🐴 Horses

The Big Sandy Trail follows old logging roads that wind through the woods. This is the only trail in the preserve open to bicycles and horses. Distance: 14.7 miles roundtrip Type: Out-and-back and loop combination Location: Big Sandy Creek Unit Trailhead: Parking lot on Sunflower Road Lat/Long: 30.614694, -94.671056 Overview Big Sandy Trail has some elevation gain and loss as it follows gentle slopes. This trail is a great option for those looking to camp in the Big Thicket backcountry. From the trailhead on Sunflower Road, walk past the metal gate next to the information kiosk to begin the hike. The trail intersects several old logging roads-follow the signs for the horse trail to stay on the main trail. Side pathsmay be explored on foot, but they are not maintained and may be overgrown. At3miles, cross a bridge over Simmons Branch. This small tributary flows south to Big Sandy Creek. At 6.6 miles, the loop section begins. Go left or right to continue on the 1-mile loop. When you complete the loop, return 6.6 miles to the trailhead. Safety Hunting is allowed in the vicinity of the Big Sandy Trail from October 1 to February 28. Wear orange if you visit this trail during hunting season. The Big Sandy Trail is the only trail in Big Thicket National Preserve that goes through a hunting area. More Information Download a trail map Explore the Big Sandy Creek Unit

Tips
Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times.Please pick up your pet's poop!
Location

Big Sandy Trail

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.