Dinosaur Tracks and Hill Country Overlook [Suggest Edits]

Description

While Government Canyon State Natural Area features a number of fun trails and interesting features, the vistas are few and far between - there are simply too many trees blocking the view. The viewpoint on the Overlook Trail not only provides a panorama of the edge of Texas's famous Hill Country, but it also overlooks one of the park's most popular features: a series of 110 million year old dinosaur tracks, left behind when San Antonio was at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico.

The trail leading to the viewpoint is fairly easy, and few people realize that the overlook is only a short distance from the tracks. Finishing the Overlook Trail and heading back south allows trail users to also visit the Zizelmann House, located at the north end of the trail, and the information sign located next to the tracks themselves at the foot of the bluff.

Short Hike: The overlook is about three miles from the Government Canyon Visitor Center parking area. Cross the concrete bridge to the east of the center and take the Joe Johnston Route at the Backcountry Trail on the left.

Signs marking the distance for the dinosaur tracks are posted every half mile. However, to reach the overlook, head left on Caroline's Loop around the two and a half mile point, and then follow the Overlook Trail a few hundred feet in. A clearing at the top of the bluff is about a quarter mile in, which is where the viewpoint is.

Use caution when on the bluff. It is about fifty to sixty feet high and no barrier exists to prevent a fall. Visitors with children may want to forego the overlook and stay on the Joe Johnston Route to view the dinosaur tracks at ground level.

Family Friendly: Kids love dinosaurs, and while tracks aren't as exciting as the displays found in some museums, there's an undeniable coolness of seeing a track in person. You couldn't ask for a nicer trail, either.

Gem Type: Prehistoric Site