start from Maple trail for easiest uphill

riverrat has not uploaded any photos with this log entry.
User: riverrat - 11/25/2004

Location: Lost Maples

Rating: 5stars
Difficulty: 4stars  Solitude: 4stars
Miles Hiked: 5.00 Miles  Elapsed Time: 6 hours

Comments:

First trip there with kids ages 6 and 4 which is why our time is a bit longer than some. First hike ever for us in LM was the East Trail, going in from the far east side (Maple Trail). First mile or so is easy hiking with a few stream crossings . After primitive campsite A you will be facing a very steep climb up what we call the "stairs". This can be tough on your knees. Take your time. Some shade can be found. The main overlook should not be missed. You will be overlooking The Ponds and will be able to see the trail that you will be following down. From this vantage point it looks fairly level. NOT. It is known as the "killer mile of boulders" in some circles. One step then slide a little. One more step, slide a little more. Much easier going down than up in my opinion. Once at the Ponds spend time walking up stream aways. Just downstream from the Ponds  is a waterfall, sometimes big sometimes not so much. From there back to the overflow parking lot is an easy mostly level hike with a few more stream crossings. Finish out the hike by heading back to the day use area and where you started this hike. The majority of the people we saw were either at the Ponds or at the beginning of the trail. Leaves are usually mostly gone by thanksgiving.



Recommended Item
Recommended Item Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites: New Edition
Laurence Parent
List Price: $27.95 Your price: $24.27 Buy Now
Since it was first published in 1996, Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites has become Texans’ one-stop source for information on great places to camp, fish, hike, backpack, swim, ride horseback, go rock climbing, view scenic landscapes, tour historical sites, and enjoy almost any other outdoor recreation.