I have lived in Austin for more than two decades and have never visited Mary Moore Searight Park, off of Slaughter Lane. I had no idea what I was missing! This parks sits on 344 beautiful acres with six miles of trails.
Yesterday, my mother and I took advantage of the fantastic spring weather to check it out. The park has plenty of parking and was pretty empty at 10:00 a.m.
Our first stop was the bathroom; it was surprisingly clean and stocked with soap and toilet paper.
There is a nice large pavilion near the bathroom that can be reserved for parties or groups. Two playscapes are located near the the pavilion.
We opted to take the mile loop trail. It is paved, but there were several pot holes. It was fine for walking and biking, but I don’t think a bike with training wheels could manage. As far as strollers, I would recommend a jogging stroller; an umbrella stroller would not fare well.
Along the trail, there are several Vita Course exercise stations. The activities remind me of the Presidential Fitness tests from back in the day. I attempted the bar hang only to remember that I am almost 40 and my arms are like sad little chicken wings.
We chose to stick to the paved trail, but there are several smaller non-paved trails; just look for the hiking pictogram.
The fields of wildflowers are spectacular this week. Now is the perfect time to visit this hidden oasis.
Know before you go:
- Take water with you! There is a water fountain near the front of the trails, but we found ourselves parched after walking the loop.
- There are several benches throughout the trails.
- Bring your camera, there are some great photo opportunities.
- This park has equestrian trails as well. So, if you have a horse, you’re in luck!
- If you enjoy Disc Golf, bring your frisbee. The course is “awesome,” according to a group of young men playing.
- Don’t be surprised if you hear the buzzing of airplanes. The Hill Country Aeromodelers, a radio control model airplane club is located near the park. They have a 550 by 50 foot runway. According to their website, visitors are welcome. Check their website, Hill Country Aeromodelers to see if they will be flying during your visit.
This park really does have it all!
Mary Moore Searight Metro Park
907 W Slaughter Ln
Austin, TX 78748
Melissa, a former teacher, enjoys finding the humor in her everyday life. Thanks to her three daughters, there is never a dull moment. She has written for MomSense, Scary Mommy, and several local websites. Her blog, Domestic Engineering, helps to keep her sane. In her “spare” time she dreams of one day becoming a spokesmodel for StarSearch.
