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An up-and-down rollercoaster in a scenic city maintained park with something for everyone, including camping.


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Map Key

8.1

Miles

13.1

KM

99%

Runnable

709' 216 m

High

591' 180 m

Low

486' 148 m

Up

482' 147 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

8%

Max Grade (5°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Those on foot should travel in a counterclockwise direction while cyclists ride in a clockwise direction for safety. See the park website for more detail.

Runner Notes

This is a great running trail but be mindful of the seemingly infinite amount of exposed roots and the, at times, endless flow of cyclists.

Description

This trail can be accessed at a number of trailheads/parking areas. Regardless of starting position, it is important to note that runners should travel in a counterclockwise direction. This park is used fairly regularly by cyclists that travel in the opposite direction for increased safety and visibility.

If following the attached track, the trail will begin across from a small parking area/pavilion, and pond. There will be a monument sign at the start of the trail that sometimes has posted information, but don't count on it to contain a trail map as it isn't always up-to-date. Bring the Trail Run Project mobile app to help keep yourself oriented.

The first third of this trail travels through heavy tree cover with many turns and twists that travels by creeks and fields. There are several places where trail navigation can be tricky, but just stick to the posted signage and you'll likely remain on the correct path. After meandering back and forth in the forest, you begin to weave in and out of fields that are covered in wildflowers in the spring, and thick prairie grass the rest of the year.

When running through the fields be sure the keep an eye out for cyclists as they tend to pick up speed in the open areas of the trail. Proper trail etiquette states they should yield to those on foot, but for safety's sake be prepared to step aside and give them the right of way.

After large stretches of the trail finish winding through some massive fields, you again reenter the forest where you'll pass by some small ponds and additional creekways. This trail has tons of tripping hazards with exposed roots so mind your step. Don't forget that you are in the forest so keep your eyes open for those that slither, as they are present as well as other wildlife.

Overall, this is a great trail that has you traveling up and down constantly throughout your journey. This is a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and has tons to offer every runner and outdoor enthusiasts.

Contacts

Land Manager: City of McKinney, TX

Shared By:

John Shuttlesworth

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 9 votes

#1

in Erwin Park

#8098

Overall
  4.2 from 9 votes
5 Star
44%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
22%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in Erwin Park

#128

in Texas

#8,098

Overall
45 Views Last Month
5,488 Since Apr 25, 2017
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

The trail passes through many large fields that, with the right timing, offer a wondrous rainbow of wildflowers.
Apr 27, 2017 near McKinney, TX
Raised boardwalks keep boots dry as you travel through wet areas of the park.
Apr 27, 2017 near Melissa, TX
Lush native vegetation masks the trail in small meadows.
Apr 27, 2017 near McKinney, TX
The trail often travels from sunny meadows into heavy tree cover.
Apr 27, 2017 near Melissa, TX

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