Tucked away at the southwest end of Dallas County is this jewel of a state park, set on the shores of a lake that was filled only in 1989. While most visitors come here for the fishing and boating (you can rent all kinds of craft at Joe Pool Marina), Cedar Hill State Park offers outstanding recreation that’s not too far from you downtown loft. You will enjoy a walk around the historic farm buildings built by John Penn, who settled his family here in the mid-1800’s, while your spirit will be restored by the park’s abundant flora and fauna. Rugged limestone hillsides are covered with forests of elm, mesquite, and juniper, and below them patches of prairie that harbor endangered tall grasses and other plants (who could resist the chance to see an antelope-horn milkweed or trout lily?).

Bobcats and raccoons shelter among the trees, and in the fall more winged guests arrive—kinglets, warblers, and flocks of cedar waxwings. But my favorite attraction is the twenty or so miles of mountain biking trails that were built by the avid cyclists of the Dallas Off Road Bicycle Association. Three separate loops snake through the forest all the way down to the shore, and they range from three to just over twelve miles long, so everyone can find a comfortable challenge. Just watch the weather’ the trails are closed after a heavy rain. From Dallas, take Interstate 20 west for 6 miles, then head south on FM 1382 and travel 4 miles; call 972-291-3900 or visit the park's web site. Day use is $5 per person.

Charlie Llewellin