Ponderosa Walking Park - A Hidden Walking Nature Trail In Houston
Ponderosa Walking Park - 333 Woerner Rd. Houston, Texas
While browsing through Google Maps, a new nature trail near me popped up to explore. Instead of window shopping online retailers, I scan through my map to find ideal hiking trails to pass the time.
After a quick scan of the 20-acre Ponderosa Walking Park, I beckoned the pup, grabbed my camera bag, his leash, and we jumped in the car.
As soon as I arrived, my attention was quickly redirected from the early morning glow of sunrise along the nature trails to the beautiful Bald Cypress trees dripping with Spanish Moss. But there is more to this small Houston natural area and walking trail than the Bald Cypress trees. This outdoor space packs a lot of diverse habitats into its small space.
Ponderosa Walking Park is a hidden natural area gem just north of Houston, Texas, encompassed by lush greenery and home to teeming wildlife.
The Picnic Pavilion and Open Space
Right off the relatively compact 10 car parking-lot are the picnic pavilion and large open field. But get here early if you want a parking space. This natural area and its walking trails are quite popular with local residents, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers.
While I don't know whom to contact for the picnic pavilion, I've talked to some locals, and they say it's first come, first serve.
Walking Paths and Nature Trails
Texas Meadow and Butterfly Gardens
Butterfly Garden at Ponderosa Walking Park
As you make your way down the walking trails, past the picnic pavilion, veer left around the first pond to enjoy an abundance of wildflowers. The walking trails lead to an open meadow with brightly colored flora and a butterfly garden.
Make sure to wear protective sun attire since this portion of the nature trail doesn't have any shade. Plus, don't forget to bring water with you.
Marsh Habitat
When I visit my first stop along the walking trails is the bald cypress trees. Instead of going left to the open meadow, follow the walking path to the right. There you'll find the much photographed bald cypress standing proudly in the small turtle filled pond.
Wrapping Up
Ponderosa Walking Park is one of Houston's beautiful hidden gems. Nestled in the Ponderosa Forest community, it's a lovely place to enjoy a morning workout, a brisk walk in a natural environment, or to meander along the walking trails enjoying the scenery.
This walking park has definitely made my top 5 nature trails in the greater Houston area.
And if you know of someone who lives or is visiting Houston and would find this article helpful, please share it with them. Know of any other hidden nature or hiking trails in Houston, let me know in the comments. I would love to explore them.
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