Hike Through A Cemetery, Whimsical Moss Trees, And A Suspension Bridge At Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge In Texas
If your usual hiking adventures are getting a tad stale, head to Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge in Hidalgo for something different. This historic preserve features wispy Spanish moss trees, a stomach-dropping canopy walk, and cemetery – not to mention some of the greatest ecological diversity in Texas.
Despite only spanning a little over 2,000 acres, this hidden gem has been deemed the "jewel of the National Wildlife Refuge." This is due to its unique position at the intersection of several ecosystems, which allows for incredible biological diversity.
An impressive 14 miles of trails lead through wispy Spanish moss trees that sway in the wind as if to beckon hikers further into their clutches. As you trudge along, keep an eye out for rare wildlife such as malaquite butterflies and chachalacas.
Experience a canopy walk like none other in South Texas. An expansive rope bridge stretches between two ginormous towers, giving visitors an aerial view of wildlife grazing in the forest canopy.
Several hikes lead right along the water's edge. Allow yourself to stand in awe of the mighty Rio Grande: life-giving elixir for all the animals and plants who inhabit the area.
Hop on the nature tram and enjoy a 1.5-hour ride that traverses seven miles of the refuge. It stops at the historic Santa Ana Cemetery, which harbors the remains of Cristoval Leal - the original grantee's adopted son - and his wife.
Knowledgeable tour guides will go into detail about the area's gruesome history, including a tomb raid that left bones scattered all over the ground for nearly three decades. Close your eyes and feel the restless energy of vengeful spirits weighing heavily over the land.
Have you ever been to Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge? If so, what’s your favorite piece of scenery? Let us know your thoughts, and check out our previous article for another epic treetop adventure: This Canopy Walk In Texas Will Make Your Stomach Drop.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
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