How to Hike the Comalander Trail in San Antonio

The Comalander Trail in San Antonio is one of the city’s most underrated natural gems—a serene, scenic route that winds through native Texas hill country, limestone outcrops, and shaded riparian corridors. Though less crowded than nearby attractions like the San Antonio River Walk or Government Canyon, the Comalander Trail offers hikers a deeply immersive outdoor experience with minimal urban intrusion. For nature lovers, trail runners, and weekend explorers seeking solitude and scenic beauty, mastering how to hike the Comalander Trail is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know—from trail access and navigation to safety protocols and seasonal considerations—so you can confidently explore this hidden corridor with preparation and respect for the environment.

Located just south of the city’s core, the Comalander Trail connects public lands managed by the San Antonio Parks Department and the Guadalupe River Basin Alliance. It is not a single, marked loop but rather a network of interconnected paths that trace the contours of the Comalander Creek watershed. Its appeal lies in its raw, unpolished character: no commercial concessions, no paved sidewalks, and no crowds. What you gain is authenticity—a chance to witness native flora like Texas persimmon, prickly pear cactus, and eastern red cedar, and to hear the rustle of white-tailed deer, the call of wild turkeys, and the distant murmur of water over limestone bedrock.

Unlike more developed trails, the Comalander Trail requires a higher degree of self-reliance. There are no ranger stations, no GPS beacons, and few signage markers. This makes preparation critical. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious beginner, understanding the terrain, weather patterns, and local ecology will transform your experience from a casual stroll into a meaningful journey through one of San Antonio’s last remaining wild corridors.

This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the Comalander Trail safely and sustainably. We’ll break down the logistics, share best practices honed by local outdoor enthusiasts, recommend essential tools, highlight real-world examples of successful hikes, and answer the most common questions. By the end, you’ll not only know how to hike the Comalander Trail—you’ll understand why it deserves a place on every San Antonio outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.

Step-by-Step Guide

Hiking the Comalander Trail is not a matter of simply showing up and following a path. Its lack of formal signage and multiple access points demands careful planning. Below is a detailed, chronological step-by-step guide to ensure you navigate the trail with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Research and Choose Your Route

The Comalander Trail is not a single defined trail but a system of unofficial footpaths that follow the natural contours of Comalander Creek. There are three primary access zones: the northern trailhead near the intersection of I-35 and FM 1518, the central corridor near the Comalander Nature Preserve, and the southern segment near the San Antonio River Authority’s conservation land. Each offers a different experience.

The northern route (approximately 2.3 miles one-way) is the most accessible for beginners. It begins at a small dirt pull-off just east of FM 1518, marked by a weathered wooden post and a cluster of mesquite trees. This segment is relatively flat, with minimal elevation change, and follows a well-trodden path along the creek bank.

The central corridor (3.8 miles round-trip) is ideal for intermediate hikers. Access is via the Comalander Nature Preserve parking area on Old Fredericksburg Road. This section includes steeper limestone inclines, narrow rock scrambles, and the most diverse wildlife sightings. The path here is less defined, so a GPS device or offline map is strongly advised.

The southern segment (5.1 miles one-way) is for experienced hikers only. It begins near the confluence of Comalander Creek and the San Antonio River, requiring a longer approach through private land with permission. This route includes the trail’s most dramatic topography—cliff edges, seasonal waterfalls, and dense thorny thickets. Only attempt this if you have prior off-trail navigation experience.

Decide your route based on your fitness level, time availability, and comfort with navigation. For first-timers, the northern route is recommended.

Step 2: Check Weather and Trail Conditions

San Antonio’s climate is highly variable. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F, while winters can bring sudden cold fronts and rain. The Comalander Trail is particularly sensitive to rainfall—its creek beds can flood within minutes during thunderstorms, and muddy sections become treacherous.

Before heading out, consult the National Weather Service’s San Antonio forecast and check the San Antonio River Authority’s real-time stream gauge for Comalander Creek. Avoid hiking if rain is predicted within 24 hours. Even light showers can turn dry creek beds into fast-moving channels.

Also, verify trail accessibility through the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation website. Occasionally, sections are closed for habitat restoration or wildlife monitoring. No official alerts are posted on-site, so online verification is critical.

Step 3: Gather Essential Gear

Unlike urban trails, the Comalander Trail has no water fountains, restrooms, or emergency phones. You must carry everything you need.

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with aggressive tread are non-negotiable. The trail features loose gravel, slick limestone, and root networks that can cause slips.
• Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. There are no reliable water sources along the trail, and even shaded sections can become dangerously hot.
• Navigation: Download the Gaia GPS or AllTrails offline map of the Comalander Trail. Save the coordinates of your start and end points. A physical topographic map (USGS San Antonio South Quadrangle) is a useful backup.
• Clothing: Wear moisture-wicking, light-colored fabrics. Long sleeves and pants protect against poison ivy, chiggers, and thorns. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are essential.
• First Aid: Pack a small kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for ticks), and an EpiPen if you have allergies.
• Other: Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), sunscreen, a lightweight rain shell, and a whistle. A portable power bank for your phone is recommended.

Step 4: Arrive Early and Park Safely

Arrive at your chosen trailhead no later than 7:00 a.m. to avoid midday heat and to secure parking. The northern trailhead has space for 4–5 vehicles; overflow parking is available on FM 1518 shoulder, but never block gates or private driveways.

At the central preserve, parking is limited to a designated gravel lot. Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle. The area is generally safe, but theft from unattended cars has occurred.

Before stepping onto the trail, take a photo of your vehicle’s location and note nearby landmarks. Cell service is spotty, and GPS can drift in dense tree cover. A physical landmark (e.g., “next to the large live oak with a lightning scar”) will help you find your way back.

Step 5: Navigate the Trail

Once on the trail, follow these navigation cues:

• Look for faint, packed earth paths—these are the most consistent indicators of use.
• Follow the sound of running water. The creek is your primary guide.
• Watch for cairns (small rock piles) placed by regular hikers. These mark junctions or hazardous turns.
• Use your GPS device to check your progress every 15–20 minutes. If you deviate more than 100 feet from the creek’s general path, you’re off-route.
• At intersections, pause and reorient. The central corridor has three major forks: one leads to a rocky overlook, one to a seasonal spring, and one to a dead-end thicket. Only the first two are worth exploring.

Do not rely on trail markers—there are none. If you’re unsure, backtrack to your last known point. It’s better to walk 0.5 miles backward than to wander for an hour.

Step 6: Respect Wildlife and Environment

The Comalander Trail is part of a protected watershed. Do not disturb native species. Observe animals from a distance. If you encounter a rattlesnake (common in spring and fall), remain still and allow it to move away. Never attempt to move or provoke wildlife.

Stay on the path. Venturing off-trail damages fragile root systems and accelerates erosion. Pack out all trash—including food wrappers, fruit peels, and biodegradable items. Even apple cores can attract invasive species and disrupt natural foraging patterns.

Do not pick plants. Texas bluebonnets, wild roses, and yucca blooms are protected under state conservation guidelines. Take photos instead.

Step 7: Exit and Document Your Hike

When you complete your hike, return to your vehicle using the same route you entered. If you’ve taken a loop, verify your exit point matches your starting coordinates.

Before leaving, take a moment to note any trail changes: fallen trees, new erosion, or signs of illegal dumping. Report these to the San Antonio River Authority via their online form. Your feedback helps preserve the trail for future hikers.

Consider logging your hike in a personal journal or on a community platform like AllTrails. Sharing your experience helps others prepare and contributes to collective trail stewardship.

Best Practices

Hiking the Comalander Trail successfully is less about speed and more about mindfulness. Below are proven best practices that separate casual visitors from experienced, responsible trail users.

Travel in Groups of Two or More

While solitude is part of the trail’s appeal, hiking alone increases risk. At least two people should always be present. If one person slips, becomes injured, or gets lost, the other can summon help or provide first aid. Inform a friend or family member of your planned route and expected return time.

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Adhere strictly to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts (fires are prohibited).
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

Even small actions—like stepping off the path to take a photo—can have cumulative environmental damage. Stick to the trail, even if it means a longer walk.

Hydrate and Fuel Strategically

Dehydration is the leading cause of trail-related emergencies on the Comalander Trail. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Consume electrolyte-rich snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars) every 45 minutes. Avoid sugary drinks—they can cause energy crashes.

On hot days, pour water over your hat or bandana to cool your body temperature. Wet clothing and a shaded hat can reduce core temperature by up to 10°F.

Know Your Limits

The Comalander Trail is deceptively challenging. What appears as a gentle walk can quickly become strenuous due to uneven terrain, heat, or elevation gain. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or excessively fatigued, stop immediately. Find shade, hydrate, and rest. Pushing through can lead to heat exhaustion or worse.

Use the “talk test”: if you can’t speak in full sentences without gasping, you’re overexerting. Slow down.

Prepare for Emergencies

Cell service is unreliable. Carry a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach or a personal locator beacon (PLB). If you don’t have one, carry a whistle and a mirror. Three whistle blasts or three flashes of light are universal distress signals.

Know the nearest emergency contacts: the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (210-335-1000) and the San Antonio Fire Department (210-207-7777). Have their numbers saved in your phone and written on a piece of paper in your wallet.

Visit During Off-Peak Seasons

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant wildflower displays. Summer hikes (June–August) are possible only before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m., and even then, heat index values often exceed 110°F.

Winter (December–February) is quiet and cool, with temperatures averaging 50–65°F. The trail is less muddy, and wildlife is more active. However, mornings can be frosty, and creek crossings may be icy. Wear traction devices if ice is present.

Support Trail Conservation

The Comalander Trail survives because of community stewardship. Volunteer with the Guadalupe River Basin Alliance or the San Antonio Parks Foundation. Participate in monthly cleanups or native plantings. Your involvement ensures the trail remains accessible and ecologically intact.

Tools and Resources

Successful navigation of the Comalander Trail relies on the right tools and trusted resources. Below is a curated list of digital and physical aids used by experienced hikers.

Digital Tools

• Gaia GPS – The most reliable offline mapping app for this trail. Download the “San Antonio Backcountry Trails” layer. It shows elevation profiles, creek lines, and user-generated waypoints.
• AllTrails – Search “Comalander Trail” for recent user reviews and photos. Pay attention to trail condition reports posted within the last 48 hours.
• NOAA Weather Radar – Use the interactive radar to track approaching storms. Avoid the trail if red or orange cells are within 15 miles.
• USGS Topo Map Viewer – Access the free San Antonio South Quadrangle map. Print a copy or save as a PDF. It shows contour lines critical for identifying steep sections.
• Texas Parks & Wildlife Wildlife Tracker – Check for recent snake or coyote sightings near Comalander Creek.

Physical Resources

• Topographic Map (USGS San Antonio South Quadrangle, 1:24,000 scale) – Essential for understanding terrain. Available at REI or the San Antonio Public Library.
• Field Guide to Texas Wildflowers by Tull and Miller – Helps identify native blooms and avoid toxic plants like poison ivy and jimsonweed.
• Comalander Trail User Guide – A 12-page PDF compiled by local hiking groups. Includes annotated trail maps, safety tips, and historical notes. Download from the San Antonio River Authority’s website.
• Trail Journal – A waterproof notebook to record observations, wildlife sightings, and route changes. Useful for future reference and sharing with others.

Local Organizations

• San Antonio River Authority – Manages water quality and trail access permissions. Their website has real-time creek level data.
• Guadalupe River Basin Alliance – Hosts volunteer trail maintenance days and educational hikes.
• San Antonio Parks Foundation – Offers guided interpretive walks during spring and fall. Great for beginners.
• Texas Master Naturalists – Hill Country Chapter – Provides training in local ecology and often leads small-group hikes on the Comalander Trail.

Recommended Gear Brands

• Footwear: Merrell Moab 3, Salomon X Ultra 4
• Hydration: CamelBak Podium, Hydrapak Speedster
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2, Suunto 9 Peak
• Clothing: Columbia Bugaboo II, Patagonia Capilene
• First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight

Real Examples

Real-world experiences provide the most valuable lessons. Below are three detailed accounts from hikers who successfully navigated the Comalander Trail—and one cautionary tale.

Example 1: Sarah M., First-Time Hiker (Northern Route)

Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher from North San Antonio, had never hiked off a paved trail before. She followed the step-by-step guide, downloaded Gaia GPS, and packed two liters of water and snacks. She started at 7:30 a.m. on a cool April morning.

“I was nervous about getting lost, but the creek kept me on track. I saw a family of deer, a red-tailed hawk, and even a kingfisher diving for minnows. The trail was muddy in spots, but my boots held up. I turned around at the third cairn—2.1 miles in—and made it back by 10 a.m. No cell service, but I felt completely connected to the land.”

Sarah’s tip: “Bring a small notebook. I wrote down every plant I saw and looked them up later. It turned my hike into a learning experience.”

Example 2: Javier R., Experienced Trail Runner (Central Corridor)

Javier, a 45-year-old firefighter and avid trail runner, completed the central loop in 2 hours and 18 minutes. He carried a GPS watch and a lightweight windbreaker.

“The climb near the limestone outcrop is brutal—almost 300 feet in 0.4 miles. I had to stop twice to catch my breath. But the view from the top? Worth it. You can see the entire watershed. I saw a black bear track—fresh, from last night. I didn’t go further. Safety first.”

Javier’s tip: “Run at your own pace. The trail isn’t a race. I passed three hikers who were walking slowly. We nodded. No words needed.”

Example 3: The Chen Family (Weekend Family Hike)

The Chens, a family of four from Cibolo, brought their two children (ages 7 and 10) on a 1.5-mile out-and-back hike. They used a stroller for the youngest on the flat northern section and carried the older child on their back for the rocky parts.

“We packed peanut butter sandwiches, apple slices, and juice boxes. The kids loved spotting bugs and rocks. We played ‘I Spy’ with native plants. We left no trace—picked up every wrapper, even the banana peel.”

Their tip: “Bring a small magnifying glass. The kids spent 20 minutes examining lichen on a rock. That’s the magic of this trail—it invites curiosity.”

Cautionary Tale: The Solo Hiker Who Got Lost

In June 2023, a 28-year-old man attempted the southern segment alone, without GPS or water. He became disoriented after a sudden thunderstorm flooded a creek crossing. He spent 8 hours wandering before being found by a landowner.

“I thought I knew the way,” he later wrote. “I didn’t. The trail vanished. The heat was crushing. I didn’t have a phone signal. I screamed for help. I was lucky someone heard me.”

His advice: “Never underestimate this trail. It doesn’t forgive mistakes.”

FAQs

Is the Comalander Trail open year-round?

Yes, but access may be temporarily restricted after heavy rain or during wildlife monitoring periods. Always check the San Antonio River Authority website before heading out.

Are dogs allowed on the Comalander Trail?

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in the designated nature preserve area. Clean up after your pet immediately.

Can I camp on the Comalander Trail?

No. Overnight camping is prohibited. The trail is a day-use corridor only. There are no designated campsites or fire rings.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. Plan accordingly. Use facilities before arriving or carry portable waste bags for emergencies.

What’s the best time of year to hike the Comalander Trail?

March through May and September through November offer the most comfortable temperatures and the most vibrant plant and animal life.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Yes, but only the northern segment. The central and southern routes involve steep climbs and rough terrain not recommended for children under 12.

Can I bring a drone?

Drone use is prohibited on all public lands managed by the City of San Antonio and the River Authority without a special permit.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop, stay calm, and slowly back away. Do not attempt to move or photograph it. Rattlesnakes are protected and will not chase you. Give them space—they’re more afraid of you than you are of them.

How do I report trail damage or illegal activity?

Contact the San Antonio River Authority at 210-302-2500 or submit a report via their website. Include photos and precise location details.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Spotty at best. Verizon has the most consistent signal near the northern trailhead. AT&T and T-Mobile often lose connection in the central and southern sections. Assume no service and plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Hiking the Comalander Trail is more than a physical activity—it’s an act of reconnection. In a city known for its history, culture, and bustling urban life, this quiet corridor offers a rare opportunity to experience Texas Hill Country in its most natural state. The trail doesn’t demand perfection; it asks for presence. It asks you to slow down, to listen to the creek, to notice the way light filters through live oaks, to respect the quiet rhythm of the land.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to hike a trail—you’re learning how to be a steward of it. Every step you take with care, every piece of trash you carry out, every moment you spend observing rather than consuming, contributes to preserving this fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

Whether you’re a San Antonio native seeking a new adventure or a visitor drawn by the promise of solitude and beauty, the Comalander Trail welcomes you—not with fanfare, but with stillness. Prepare well, move respectfully, and let the trail reveal itself in its own time.

Go lightly. Go prepared. Go with wonder.