The Buffalo Bayou Trail, also referred to as the Sandy Reed Memorial Trail, cuts across Houston and meanders through the many parks that line the waterway, as well as the historical Glenwood Cemetery. It stretches 15 miles and is fully paved, offering a pleasant outdoor escape in an urban setting.
Sandwiched between Memorial Drive on its north side and Allen Parkway to the south, the west end of the trail is particularly popular and easy to access. Much of this section is shaded and you’ll even find a thriving bat colony under the Waugh Drive Bridge. And, if you want to see the views from the water, canoe and kayak launches are available near the Sabine Street Bridge and City Lot H.
Parking is available in the parks that line the trail, including (from east to west):
We rode on Jan 27, 2020, starting at Elenor Tinsley Park, riding clockwise to west end, back to east by UHD, then completing loop. Who knew Houston had a river ride nearly as scenic as in San Antonio.
Trail alternates between street and lower level, so there are gentle hills. Lots of maintenance underway, so appears the city takes it seriously.
Best bathrooms ever on a trail at Lost Lake.
But, you do have to pay attention to the map to put together a ride of the length you desire. Fairly well signed.
This is a slow scenic ride, not a workout ride, due to the number of pedestrians, dog walkers on one side with dog leash across the trail, etc., esp around dog park (which is prolly one of the best dog parks we have seen).
Riding under the roads above with rolling hills is a stark contrast to trees and parks on Allen parkway. This trail has it all, always a fun ride as short or as long as needed. The pedestrian bridges are a nice touch too!
It’s a great challenge for me when I feel like rollerblading over biking. Yes. I’m one of those crazies that enjoy both modes of recreational mobility. My only complaint would be it gets crowded, so you’re bound to run into either those biking snobs or those rollerblading snobs. Idk why either camp thinks they look cool. We look like idiots lol let’s just get along! Trail was a blast though. And this app makes it a lot easier to know how to get back to your car.
7/22/2017
Location: McKee St. bridge entrance (no paved entrance) North of Buffalo Bayou heading east past Jensen Dr. until it converts into Swiney St.
This trail has no signs of entry or maintenance and is filled with homeless people seen along the trail (use caution).
The path under the 59 overpass seems especially unsafe hidden from public view and also filled with homeless and suspicious-looking people.
I wouldn't recommend and would avoid this trail (especially if alone). I couldn't find any updates by the city of Houston on the construction progress of this trail.
Getting better, better signage for pedestrians and bike trails would be great. I encountered peds on bike trail very often.
Great MTB trail that runs along Allen Parkway. Recent improvements and attractions has made this one of my favorite bike rides in the Metro-Houston area. The layout of the Park's bike/hike, friendly design should be the model for any future development.
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