Itinerary: Nature Tour

This tour is designed to be taken at your own pace. The Convention Bureau will be glad to work with scheduling and finding places to dine along the way.

Day 1

  1. Your tour begins at Abilene’s nature place, the Abilene Zoo. We hope your visit brings you an improved appreciation and under standing of the world around you.
  2. Next stop is Fort Griffin State Historic Site where you can stroll a 3/4 mile nature trail or take the 1-1/2 mile walking trail that's located on a terrace just above the Clear Fork of the Brazos River. There are opportunities to view and photograph much of the area wildlife including white-tail deer, ducks, raccoons, many birds, armadillos, and squirrels. The State of Texas Longhorn Herd is also located in this park. Wander the historic trails through the remains of Fort Griffin. The Fort once held command of the southern plains, saw the end of both the great herds of buffalo and those who hunted them, and was home to a rugged group of men. An interpretive center is also available.
  3. Return to your accommodations.

Day 2

  1. Start your day with a hike of Abilene State Park's Elm Creek Nature Trail, a mile long trail that wanders along the creek through scenic woodlands. The State Park is seated in an area with much underground water and has many large pecan, live oak and cedar trees and abundant wildlife. Enjoy wildlife observation and photography opportunities for white-tailed deer, raccoons, armadillos, foxes, squirrels, cottontail rabbits and a large variety of birds.
  2. Lunch, have a catered picnic in the park. After lunch hike around Lake Abilene as you continue exploring the park. Return to your hotel and have dinner on your own.

Extra Day

Spend one or two days at the Stasney's Cook Ranch. The Stasney's have restored the spacious 93-year-old Cook Ranch House into a wonderful country retreat. There is a full-time cook and caretaker to fulfill your every need. Great meals are prepared in a ranch atmosphere and guests with special diets are welcomed. An Argentine Grill is available for cookouts or chuck-wagon dinners can be prepared upon request. The grand outdoor patio offers a scenic view of the longhorn herd and wildlife in the beautiful valley below. A 13-station sporting clay range and rifle range are nearby. A hot tub, pool table, shuffleboard, jukebox, player piano and wet bar provide activities for a quiet country evening.

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