Mae Simmons Park Trails: Lubbock's Hidden Gem

Lubbock, Texas, typically known for its expansive plains and vibrant university life, is also home to the Mae Simmons Park Trails, offering riders an unexpected treasure trove of singletracks, challenging climbs, and some heart-pounding descents.

Trail Overview

Distance: 11 miLevel: Very EasyRoute type: LoopLocation: Lubbock, Texas

The Ride

Starting from the parking lot, riders head North across Canyon Lakes Drive and quickly encounter their first decision at the initial junction: head into the west loop with a left turn. This loop holds about 2 3/4 miles of singletrack that saw its genesis in June, 2001. For adrenaline junkies, there's a particularly technical section: a steep, loose climb nestled between two sentinel-like trees. Clear this, and you're greeted with a 9-inch ledge. The reward for conquering this? A table rock drop that spirals you down a winding, rocky trail.The trail's natural design offers multiple offshoots, most notably the aptly named "Cactus Alley," a singletrack lined with prickly pear cactus - not for the faint-hearted. The Drop Bridge Trail, introduced in 2002, promises technicality with climbing turns and a 10-inch platform drop onto a downhill armored section.For those interested in history, there's a section created from a trail clinic held in June, 2003, laid with an incline gauge, promising reduced maintenance and the thrill of a gulley plunge. It's designed for water run-off and stands as a testament to innovation in trail development.

Trail Highlights:

• Stink Hill: A climb with a surprising reward at the top—a less potent sewer vent.
• Durwood Forest: A serene section following the south side of the creek leading to Alligator Crossing Bridge.
• Shippwrecked: A trail add-in with steep descents, tricky ledges, and sweeping turns.

Getting There

From I-27, follow 19th street east for roughly 2 miles until reaching Martin Luther King Boulevard. A half-mile southward turn leads to Canyon Lakes Drive. Heading east for approximately 3/4 mile, keen eyes will spot the boat loading ramp and parking lot to the south of the road, perched on the lake's north shore.

Rider's Note

For those accustomed to Palo Duro's rides, Mae Simmons Park Trails provide an engaging alternative, aptly summarized as: "It's a fun trail, best you will find around Lubbock without going to Palo Duro."The uniqueness of Mae Simmons lies not just in its technical aspects, but also in the way it seamlessly weaves nature, challenge, and history into one rideable tapestry. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced rider, there's something for everyone. So, gear up, pedal on, and enjoy this Lubbock jewel!