Jim Turner Chevrolet
Feb 5, 2021

Mountain biking is an outstanding way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and spend some time with friends or family members. Whether you’re a beginning biker or an experienced rider, the area around McGregor, Texas, has some great trails. Here are some of the best places where you can test your skills. 

Cameron Park 

Cameron Park is near downtown Waco, about 20 minutes away from McGregor. It’s a municipal park at the confluence of the Brazos and Bosque rivers, and there’s a network of trails that runs right along the river. Cameron Park covers 416 acres. There are more than 20 miles of paths to explore, and it’s a National Recreation Trail. You can see the spectacular Bosque River and the surrounding terrain from Lovers Leap, a cliff on top of a soaring, 100-foot-tall limestone bluff.  

More than 150 signs let users know about the trail names and difficulty levels, and there are several convenient map kiosks in the park to help you find your way. The more advanced routes include steep climbs and descents, ramps, and rocky trails. As you ride, you can view public art installations on the trails. You can also try some exciting, challenging jumps. 

The Lacy Point Nature Trail  

The Lacy Point Nature Trail is on the west shore of Waco Lake, about two miles west of Waco Dam. It’s popular for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, and the trail is 19 miles long. There are several picnic tables along the shoreline, interpretive trail markers, and directional maps. You can see Bottomland hardwoods, grassland, and scrub, and the lake is a great place for fishing. The smooth terrain makes it easier to tackle for beginners than the Cameron Park trails. Bikers will pass year-round springs and old-growth Eastern Red Cedar forests.  

More than 400 species of terrestrial and aquatic plants live in the area. You can see deer, bobcats, bald eagles, foxes, armadillos, and seven species of turtles.  

The Lake Waco Dam 

This path is 2.8 miles long, and it crosses the Lake Waco Dam. It’s paved and closed to cars and other vehicles, so it’s perfect for biking. The dam provides a beautiful view, and restrooms are available. Pets on leashes are allowed, and you can even go swimming in the lake. The trail opens an hour before sunrise and closes an hour before sunset, and the closest parking lot is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. There are three trail entrances with water fountains and rest areas. 

The Friar’s Creek Trail  

The Friar’s Creek Trail is also paved, and it starts in South Temple Park, about 40 minutes away from McGregor. This trail is partially shaded, and there are playgrounds and picnic areas nearby. There’s a fun, entertaining disc golf course as well. 

Mountain biking is a wonderful way to keep in shape and enjoy the outdoors. The area near McGregor has trails for everyone; from beginners to advanced riders. The scenery is beautiful, and you’ll see a wide variety of wildlife.