Mineola Nature Preserve

The Mineola Nature Preserve has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit. It is truly a hidden treasure that the town of Mineola holds.

The Mineola Nature Preserve is a fairly new attraction. It is a 3000 acre preserve that has nature trails you can walk, trails you can take by horse back and even bike trails. It runs along the Sabine River. All together there is about 15 miles of riding trails.

The Preserve is home to many creatures of many sorts. You can visit a bee hive and see the bees working in action. On another trail you may see a real live alligator enjoying the swampy waters of the river. A wild hog has even been known to grace the presence of hikers.

Along the trail you will find a pier or two that overlooks the swampy grasslands of the Sabine. You just never know what you may find or see. It is always exciting to anticipate what may cross your path. Everytime I have been there I have encountered some type of animal. I have seen the alligator I mentioned earlier, I have seen an owl, turtles, bees and birds. You can see deer and raccoon and other wild life as well. It has been said that 191 different species of birds have been identified at the preserve.

The walking trail is about 4 miles long. On those walking trails you get to cross over a rickety wooden bridge that is a lot of fun! The trail is where the old railroad use to be. Occasionally you will see railroad ties of the old railroad track along the path.

The preserve has a covered pavilion that is great for get togethers. It is a prime place for birthday parties, Senior parties, family reunions and just about any kind of get together you have.

On the premises of the preserve they have nice bathroom facilities and a nice playground for kids. The pavilion overlooks a beautiful view of the valley that makes up the preserve.

A new attraction that you can find at the Mineola Nature Preserve has been recently added. An archery range for bow and arrows.

There is a native grasses and flowers section at the Preserve that has gorgeous flowers in bloom. What is so nice about this is they have signs posted that actually tell you what kind of grass or flower you are looking at. At the beginning of the walking trail is a small pond for fishing. There is a small dock you can sit on and just watch the water or break out the fishing pole.

When visiting Mineola the Nature Preserve is definitely one stop you need to make. You will not be dissapointed.