Excellent series of loops

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User: Riff Raff - 11/2/2005

Location: Balcones Canyonlands NWR - Doeskin Ranch

Rating: 4stars
Difficulty: 3stars  Solitude: 3stars
Miles Hiked: 3.50 Miles  Elapsed Time: N/A

Comments: As suggested here, I did all three of the main loops in one outing. The Rimrock Trail was first as it looked to be the most strenuous, and indeed it was a decent ascent. The Shin Oak trail at the top was a nice break from the climb. Could still look back and see the parking lot throughout the climb up Rimrock Trail, but after hitting the top I never saw it again until I was back at the trailhead. Getting out of sight of 1174 is nice for the solitude factor, and the only people I saw were in the Creek Trail area. Plus a random overflight of a military helicopter. Overall this is a very nice area, with lots of meadows and clearly marked trails (pretty much every intersection I might have been confused by had a sign clarifying it). If you want to feel solitude, do avoid the Pond & Prairie Trail though - it goes right next to FM 1174.

Area around Balcones Canyonlands NWR - Doeskin Ranch
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