Sunday, June 14, 2020

30 Hikes in 30 Days: Day Two: Round Rock Memorial Park, Round Rock, Texas

Day Two:  Sunday, June 14, 2020

Memorial Park consists of 14.11 acres of land. This park provides a cool and shaded atmosphere with the abundance of trees. The 0.60 mile trail runs alongside Brushy Creek, which provides a stimulating view for any runner, walker, or bike rider. Follow the trail to see the legendary “Round Rock” that can be seen in Brushy Creek. For the softball players out there, Memorial Park offers a softball field along with a full concession stand. Parking is available just outside the field and only a few steps away from the playground. Park goers can also enjoy other amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and drinking fountains.
                                -- from the Round Rock Parks and Recreation website

This morning's hike was in Round Rock Memorial Park.  Just off I-35, it's a hidden gem.  I've driven past the entrance on my way to meetings at C.D. Fulkes Middle School on several occasions and had no idea.

We drove over a one-lane bridge to arrive at a small parking lot nestled between a softball field and a playground.  We made our way down the paved path and got to a road where a man was casting his fishing line into the water.  A marker told us this was Brushy Creek, and also the site of the "Round Rock" whence the town got its name.  We stopped to snap a selfie in front of the famous boulder, which neither of us had known about until today.

The author, left, and his lovely bride, crowned by the "Round Rock" 

Soon after getting a shot of me looking regal in front of a babbling waterfall, we came to a sign reading "Trail Closed."  We paused, discouraged, and considered being upstanding, rule-following members of our community until, that is, we saw two fisherman in camouflage jackets and waders ignore the sign, at which point we said, "Eff it!" and forged ahead.

The author, posing for a statue in front of a waterfall


So glad we did.  Round Rock Memorial Park turned out to be a beautiful hike and a fantastic workout.  

And yet another gorgeous morning spent with my lovely bride!

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