La Subida Trail

Dogs No Dogs

One of the more rugged trails in Government Canyon, La Subida cuts about three-quarters of a mile out of the longer Black Hill Loop by heading straight down the hillside.

La Subida begins around Black Hill's high point after a climbing segment. The marker at the turnoff is easy to miss, but it is sandwiched by Black Hill markers on either side which can help in locating the intersection. The first quarter mile is a quick descent down the slope of the escarpment. Rocky and uneven, the singletrack is similar to the trickier sections on Sendero Balcones and can be a tough go for less experienced hikers.

Eventually, the path levels out in a semi-grassy area. Look for a nice variety of sotols and other yucca-type plants around this section.

As the trail turns south, it makes one more short descent, ending back on Black Hill Loop at another set of markers.

The Texas Hill Country is well known for its abundant tree life. Government Canyon exhibits a number of these varieties, including mountain laurel, Ashe juniper, mesquite and live oak. Birds and deer are the most common animals encountered in the area.