Take a Walk On The Wild Side!

Leon Creek Greenway System

My wife and I recently discovered a hidden outdoors gem for our now out of shape mid-50's bodies: The Leon Creek Greenway System. A part of the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department Greenway System it runs about 15 miles total. The longest segment (about 13.5 miles) begins with a station at IH-10/1604 and continues through O.P. Schnabel park and down to Bandera Rd. where a new section opens up all the way down to Ingram Rd. near Loop 410.

The main trails are paved with either concrete or asphalt and are a fairly easy walk for everyone. The majority of these trails are pretty level will gentle grades but there are some elevation changes here and there and particularly around O.P. Schnabel Park. But nothing most walkers or joggers can't handle. Plus on most stretches there are stations about every mile or two with water fountains and a place to rest.

For the biker/jogger/hiker looking for something more challenging there are plenty of dirt trails off-shooting the paved trails. These trails can be very rugged and very challenging as they typically charge through the natural brush and can be very narrow and twisting and with steep elevation changes. Those on foot should be very aware that these trails are often used by bikers and there is little to no room for two on the trail.

Living on the northside near Fiesta Texas we like to access the main trails at either the Valero Trailhead (IH-10/1604), Bamberger Park or Buddy Calk Park (both on Babcock Rd. a bit south of 1604), or O.P. Schnable Park (Bandera Rd./Braun Rd.). We park the car at one of these locations and walk about 2.5-3.0 miles in about one hour (out about 1.25-1.5 miles and then back). The trails are marked every .25 mile so it's easy to keep track. If you are biking you will go much further but you'll have to figure that one out for yourself.

Be sure to take enough water to last the length of your walk/bike/jog. Even though there is water at the trailheads some stretches are longer than others. Also, be aware of snakes and other critters; even though the paved trails are well traveled you are out in nature and generally following a wide creekbed. Also be aware that Leon Creek can be a mighty flood zone when we get rain. If we've had significant rainfall or are about to << GET OUT OF THE CREEK! >>. You may want to hit the treadmill at the gym instead.

One other point of interest: there are many neighborhoods adjoining and along the main trails. Some of these neighborhoods are Regency Meadow, Park at University Hills, Oxbow (direct access), Parkwood, French Creek Village, and many others. The Greenway Trails certainly add to the lifestyle of any neighborhoods within walking/biking distance to the trails.

For more info on Leon Creek Greenway or any of the other greenways or parks click on the link below:

San Antonio Parks & Recreation Greenway Trails    

Now, get out there and have fun!