Hike, Bike, Meander Through the RGV

by Eryn Reddell Wingert

W arm South Texas weather allows more days to enjoy the outdoors. Cities across the Rio Grande Valley offer residents and visitors a variety of walking trails--not to mention hundreds of municipal and state parks to meander through. Here’s a sampling from across Valley.

Brownsville - Resaca de la Palma State Park, 1000 New Carmen Ave., is a little off the beaten path but worth visiting. The park’s Ebony Trail is part land and part boardwalk over a resaca bed. The park also has viewing stations to witness wildlife visiting water and welcomes bicyclists.

Edinburg - Take a relaxing stroll through the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands at 714 Raul Longoria. The 40-acre oasis offers a respite from the everyday. This park, with all its trails, offers visitors a slower-paced experience. Take a cue from the birds and butterflies. Plan to stay a while so you’ll have time to wander.

Harlingen - There are over 1,000 acres of park land with walking and nature trails. Native plants and wildlife--including birds, butterflies, and javelina--are part of the trails at Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, 1000

TX-499 Loop. The Arroyo Hike and Bike Trail, 1110 New Hampshire St., offers scenic views of the Arroyo Colorado waterway.

McAllen - The 2nd Street and Bicentennial trails stretch for miles and are perfect for walking, running, and bicycling; multiple parking spots are available along each path. Local parks like Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center offer meandering trails for nature enthusiasts.

Mission - Get your steps in at Bentsen State Park, 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive, or ride the trails at the Mission Hike and Bike Trail. You can actually ride or hike both since the