The Unique Hike In Texas That Leads You To Plane Wreckage From 1953
By Katie Lawrence|Published October 23, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
We have no shortage of amazing hikes here in Texas, but not many also serve as a history lesson. This amazing trail at Franklin Mountain State Park leads to the intact wreckage of a B-36 Bomber plane, and you can see the ruins firsthand.
One fateful day in December of 1953, a blizzard and dust storm occurred simultaneously. The pilot of a B-36 Bomber scheduled to land at Biggs Airfield couldn't see the runway in such treacherous weather conditions.
Frantically circling around to buy time while looking for a safe landing place, one of the plane's wings collided with the Franklin Mountains. A massive fire started almost immediately, sending smoke signals into the sky for days to come.
From there, turn left and keep climbing until coming to a fork in the road. Head left and hike to the southernmost rock in a group marked by yellow circles - this is where the wreckage is located.
A somber scene, dozens of memorials have been built on the mountaintop. Engine pieces, landing gear, and even part of a tail fin are fully intact and accessible for an up-close look.
The trail is definitely challenging, but pets and kids over 10 are welcome so long as a close eye is kept on them. Bring plenty of water and snacks, although the risk of overheating is significantly lower now than during summertime.
