Walk Along Pre-Dinosaur Tracks On This Short And Easy Hiking Trail In Texas
By Katie Lawrence|Published June 07, 2023
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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).
There are a few places where you can see dinosaur tracks in Texas, but the Dinosaur Trail System at San Angelo State Park is one of, if not the, best. Clocking in at just four miles (round-trip!), this quick and easy hike is peppered with 200-million-year-old footprints from dinosaur-like creatures. Let’s journey back to prehistoric times, shall we?
Tucked away inside of San Angelo State Park is a little-known portal back to prehistory. The 4-mile Dinosaur Trail System is short, sweet, and scenic - not to mention the fact that it's peppered with dinosaur tracks from a land before time.
With an elevation gain of under 40 feet, the out-and-back takes under an hour to complete. There is little to no shade, however, so I would definitely recommend bringing sun protection and not visiting in the middle of the day.
The scenery here is quite beautiful. You'll see lots of vegetation native to the West Texas desert, including several different types of cacti. Additionally, the North Concho River can be seen from the trail, with its tranquil waters lulling you into a state of transcendental bliss.
Of course, the 300-million-year-old animal footprints scattered all along the path are the highlight of the trail. Dating to the Permian Period, these tracks are even older than the dinosaurs, likely left by extra-large, primitive amphibians such as Eryops and reptile-like creatures like Dimetrodon.
Informative signs are located at several points throughout the trail to provide context to the footprints. The signs also feature a trail map so you know exactly where you are at all times.
For more information about seeing dinosaur tracks in Texas at San Angelo State Park, visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Have you ever embarked on this unique trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Check out our previous article to learn about a Mexican restaurant in San Angelo with surprisingly delicious burgers. Treat yourself to one after your hike!
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