From northwest of Weatherford in central Parker County, the Trailway travels 20 miles west to the downtown district of Mineral Wells in eastern Palo Pinto County. It connects to Lake Mineral Wells State Park, where you can camp and picnic.
The Trailway is 20 miles long and 10 feet wide. Two miles of surface from the downtown Mineral Wells trailhead toward the east are asphalt. Finely crushed and screened limestone tops the remaining 18 miles.
The 16 bridges have decks and rails for safety. The Trailway's 500-foot signature bridge allows safe travel over U.S. Highway 180. The bridge, adorned with 104 Lone Stars, meets Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
All four trailheads have paved parking, drinking water, restrooms, trail information and accessible parking. Pay fees at the self-pay stations located at each trailhead, or at the Lake Mineral Wells State Park headquarters.
- Weatherford Trailhead: Off FM 920, northwest of downtown Weatherford.
- Garner Trailhead: Next to FM 113, two miles north of U.S. Highway 180.
- State Park Trailhead: In Lake Mineral Wells State Park. A portion of the trail that connects the park to the Trailway has a steep grade.
- Mineral Wells Trailhead: Next to U.S. Highway 281, four blocks south of U.S. Highway 180.
Comments
Tomorrow, 10/4/2021, I will attempt the out & back route in unsupported fashion. Thank you for the insights from your run, Greg!