Overlook Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

Close to some of Government Canyon's most popular features, Overlook Trail is a short detour off of the Joe Johnston Route. Look for the single marker on the right showing the starting point only a few hundred feet into Caroline's Loop. The path curves north as a packed dirt singletrack. Compared to some of the more rugged trails in the area, Overlook is generally smooth and easy, with few rocks to contend with.

It's a short, low grade climb to an opening on top of a bluff around the quarter mile point. Here, hikers can experience an outstanding panorama of the Hill Country. Heading off the trail a few feet also leads to a bird's eye view of the dinosaur tracks along Joe Johnston Route. Use caution, as there is no barrier to prevent a fall, and the bluff is fifty to sixty feet high.

After enjoying the view, continue along the trail to the north. The remainder of the route is a bit more rocky, but also more shaded. Watch for tree roots and a few low-hanging branches.

Two thirds of a mile in, the trail turns southeast and heads back to Joe Johnston Route. It ends at another marker, directly across from the Zizelmann House.

The Texas Hill Country is well known for its abundant tree life. Government Canyon exhibits a number of these varieties, including mountain laurel, Ashe juniper, mesquite and live oak. Birds and deer are the most common animals encountered in the area.