Lone Star Hiking Trail Hike 18, Mercy Fire Tower Hike ~12.1 Miles
Details
The Hike:
Mercy Fire Tower Loop is the hike for today's segment of HATS' 8th attempt to complete the ~120 mile Lone Star Hiking Trail. Be sure to touch base with Cindy after you park to get counted for completing this hike.
We will follow the LSHT by Tarkington Bayou then return along FS Roads and ROWs.
Of special note is a turn that many hikers miss that adds extra miles to the day. Bring and use the hike map. Or follow the hike leader after the break until we turn off the LSHT.
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.
The Trail:
The hike is over the loam soils of the region and will be mostly shaded. This area is typically dry even after a rain.
Geolocated Maps:
With the demise of Avenza, we now suggest the FO Maps app to load the PDF map.
COMMUNITY CARPOOL:
Alan is organizing a community carpool. The goal is that everyone gets a ride or a rider.
Leaving at 7:30 AM sharp
Judson Robinson, Jr. Community Center.
2020 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
Google Map Link
Gathering Place:
Lone Star Trailhead #14
https://goo.gl/maps/snfN4rJvLGE2
Call or text Alan at 713 863 8038 if you need help.
There is no bathrooms at the trailhead or along the hike. Stop on FM 2025 near the freeway.
Weather Forecast:
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.4714&lon=-95.106&FcstType=graphical
Hike Map:
In the photos.
Geolocated Maps:
Mercy Winter Loop
After Hike Event:
Back Pew Brewing Company
26452 Sorters McClellan Rd, Porter, TX 77365
https://g.page/backpewbrew?share
http://www.backpewbrewing.com/
To find your place on your personal path to hike the LSHT, see our progress sheet.
Link to LSHT Progress Chart
To support work on the LSHT donate or volunteer with either of these great organizations.
The Sam Houston Trails Coalition
https://www.samhoustontrails.org/
The Lone Star Trail Hiking Club
https://lonestartrail.org/
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."