About us
This group is for people who want to explore the the Houston area on foot. We hike every weekend. Our hikes are normally 10-12 miles so a reasonable fitness level is needed. We plan camping trips around Texas with occasional trips to National Parks and other special hiking location.
HATs leaders are fellow hiking enthusiast, not guides. We encourage all members to plan for hikes as if they are going solo as the best way to assure safety.
To find out more about our hikes and what you may need to prepare for a hike. https://www.hatsandmore.org/
See our Houston hikes map for more on where we hike.
https://www.hatsandmore.org/houston-hikes
Then join us to trace out your own path on the map.
Join us for less intensive activities at our social Meetup group, More and More.
https://www.meetup.com/More-and-More/
If you know of places to hike or you'd like to revisit a favorite hike, please let Tom know. If you are visiting Houston and want to hike with us, let Tom know in advance and we will try to accommodate you.
HATs is friendly with other Meetup groups that also offer great outdoor activities.
Houston Urban Trekkers
https://www.meetup.com/HoustonUrban-Trekkers/
City Walks Houston
https://www.meetup.com/city-walks-houston/
Upcoming events
13
Bluebonnet Quest - Week Two Fiorenza Park ~9.1 Miles
Joseph Fiorenza Park, 4025 Eldridge Parkway, Houston, TX, USThe Hike:
A second hike in our quest for Bluebonnets.The flowers have spoken and the best in the Houston area right now seem to be at Fiorenza Park.
After some time enjoying them we will do the Brays Headwaters Hike.
About HATs and our hikes
https://www.hatsandmore.org/
HATs organizers are not guides nor do we have any special training. We are here to come up with hiking ideas and get the hike started. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if hiking alone, including the fitness level to make long hikes. Then enjoy the hike among friends.We hike about 3 MPH. This is faster than many walking groups.
Trail Safety:
Hiking is supposed to be fun. If you don't feel well or can't keep up, tell someone right away. Stop walking so it doesn't become something serious. Contact the hike leader. We can help get you off the trail.
Tom: 832-439-5797What to You Need:
Supportive sports shoes, water, snacks and a hat.
Gathering Point:
Approximate address:
13511 Westpark DrBathrooms:
At the start and a few places along the hike.The Trail:
Paved and full sun. This is a shared use trail so be aware of bicycles,Weather:
Weather,govHike Map:
In the photos.
Geolocated Maps:
Click HereAfter Hike Event:
TBD
Suggestions welcomed
Anyone know a fun place in the area that can take a group?
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1lSydpxMopshzYxDq5k2BLA0XjoUkGWJNPast Hikes in the Area:
2016
2016
2015About The Park:
https://cp4.harriscountytx.gov/Explore/Parks/Precinct-4-Parks/archbishop-joseph-florenza-northhttps://cp4.harriscountytx.gov/Explore/Parks/Precinct-4-Parks/mcclendon-park
More about where we hike:
Houston Area Hikes
List of hikes we have made15 attendees
Lone Star Hiking Trail #19: Winters Bayou 11.2 miles
Lone Star Hiking Trail - Trailhead # 15, Cleveland, TX, USWinters Bayou segment is the final segment of the Lone Star Hiking Trail and the location of one of the two bridges that need replacing. You will see how the stream has undermined the footings of the bridge though it seems safe for now.
Bring three liters of water, a change of shoes, and plenty of bug spray. Oh, and plenty of bug spray.
This hike takes us through Big Thicket-like wetlands and creek bottoms This is a relatively strenuous course through miles of bottom land, best approached in cool weather. So be ready for a great hike
About HATs and our hikes
https://www.hatsandmore.org/HATs organizers are not guides nor do we have any special training. We are here to come up with hiking ideas and get the hike started. Take the same precautions you would if hiking alone, including the fitness needed to make long hikes. Then enjoy the hike among friends.
COVID PRECAUTIONS:
Bring and wear a mask when not hiking and follow the best practices to prevent the transmission of COVID. We have had a COVID spreading incident in a carpool and recommend that you don't carpool.Gathering Place:
Lone Star Trailhead #15
15151 FM1725, Cleveland, TX 77328
https://goo.gl/maps/bPJAEixVcVpYNnc5A
Google Plus Code" 9RVR+5M Cleveland, TexasCall or text Alan at 713 863 8038 if you need help.
The Hike:
We will cross Winter's Bayou and the East Fork of the San Jacinto River then follow the ground as it slowly rises to the Mercy Firetower Trailhead. Much of the trail is rough with many trip hazards. This area has several deceptive trail turns so I recommend Avenza App users to be sure to get Tom's PDF maps for the trek. Depending on recent rains, the area could be muddy and mosquito-y. The hike is over the sandy soils of the region and will be mostly shaded.Weather Forecast:
Winter's Bayou National Weather forecastHike map is in the photos.
More maps and tracks:
Seg 19 maps and moreThe Best Map: Any hikers with the Avenza Maps App are encouraged to download the file:
Winter's Bayou Hike PDFEmail the PDF file to your iPhone or Android. Open the pdf in your phone and "share" it with Avenza Maps. That way you can see exactly where you are on the geolocated map during the entire hike.
To find your place on your personal path to hike the LSHT, see our progress sheet. Starting with Quest 5, we will simplify scorekeeping by trimming the list to include active hikers only. All you have to do is show up to be counted.
HATs Lone Star Trail ScorecardTo see the groups progress on this quest to complete the trail, see our map.
Click HereCOMMUNITY CARPOOL:
Everyone gets a ride or a rider. Alan Foster carpool leaves Judson Robinson Community Center, 2020 Hermann Drive at 6:45 am.From the Official Guidebook for the Lone Star Trail
"One of the hidden jewels of Texas, the Lone Star Hiking Trail is the only long-distance National Recreation Trail in the state. At 128 miles (including loop trails), it is also the state’s longest continuously marked and maintained footpath. The trail meanders through flat and gently rolling forests of pine, oak, and mixed hardwood, and cypress swamps and bayous in the famed Big Thicket area in east Texas, in the Sam Houston National Forest. The seemingly endless variation of forests, much of it designated wilderness, provides a paradise for tree-lovers and bird watchers year-round. The trail is well-suited for both short and long hikes (of up to 10 days), appealing to dayhikers, overnight backpackers, long-distance hikers, and others seeking a peaceful outing."
https://www.wildernesspress.com/product.php?productid=16836
After Hike Event:
The Back Pew
https://www.backpewbrewing.com/contact/26452 Sorters McClellan Rd.
Porter, TX 77365Indoor and outdoor seating.
18 attendees- $15.00
Canyon Lake - Guadalupe River Camping and Hiking
3145 Potters Creek Rd, Canyon Lake, TX, USJoin us to explore the park and trails at Potters Creek park on Canyon Lake. people around the state refer to it as “The Jewel” of the Texas Hill Country. It’s a fitting honorary title for this community because it’s a true gem of the Lone Star State. Its location, on the Guadalupe River, north of New Braunfels makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. White-tailed deer, foxes, roadrunners, and other wildlife can be spotted along the Guadalupe River.
THIS IS FOR FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT CAMPING. RSVP HERE ONLY IF INTENDING TO CAMP WITH US. YOU CAN STAY AT A HOTEL OR MOTEL INSTEAD OR TAKE A DAY TRIP, AND JOIN US FOR THE HIKES POSTED SEPARATELY. .
Park Website: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55581-d146643-Reviews-Potters_Creek_Park-Canyon_Lake_Texas.html
Camping: I have been reserved The Group Shelter site with water/electric Showers and restrooms are nearby with space available for up to 24 persons/tents. The site has a large awing with tables with a campfire ring
Friday: arrive at campsite set up camp.
Saturday Hike: Madrone Trail Click Here
Sunday Hike: Canyon lake Gorge Trail to Guadalupe river park Click Here
Optional Group Dinner: Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
https://gristmillrestaurant.com/menu/POLICIES AND WHAT NOT:
Organizers: We (organizers) are volunteering our time sharing this event with you, please be respectful to the group. We are like minded people coming together to share our outdoor adventures with others. In no way do we offer a guided event or take any liability for your well being. Each event is well defined and describes the physical requirements, it's up to you to determine if you are capable of the event . In case of emergencies the appropriate emergency response teams will be notified. You are responsible for all your own camping gear. You must understand this before signing up.
As a courtesy to fellow hikers, if your plans change, please update your attendance status to "NO" so others can be assured a camping spot.
Camping Checklist For Beginners:Click Here (https://www.meetup.com/Houston-Area-Trails-More/pages/20893174/What_do_I_need_when_Camping/))7 attendees 
Canyon lake North Shore Madrone Trail 8.5-9mil
WQ3C+XF Canyon Lake, Canyon Lake, TX, USWe will be exploring the trails around canyon lake north shore this trail is described as An awesome rocky taste of Hill Country trails, located about 30 minutes north of new braunfels
Website: https://www.canyonlakeguide.com/helpful_info/parks.htm
Hike: This will be a loop trail.
Meet at the Madrone trail head parking lot.
Trail Map: Click here
The hike and the planned trail route & mileage is as a guide and is subject to change based on the weather and trail conditions.
Weather Forecast
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.126&lon=-95.155&FcstType=graphicalWhat to bring:
Food and water, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen.
As always, each person assumes responsibility for their own safety. Therefore, you should be in good health and physically fit, know your own limitations. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult/guardian.After hike event: TBA
About HATs and our hikes
https://www.hatsandmore.org/
HATs organizers are not guides nor do we have any special training. We are here to come up with hiking ideas and get the hike started. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if hiking alone, including the fitness level to make long hikes. Then enjoy the hike among friends.14 attendees
Past events
1373
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