Kershaw Ryan State Park's Overlook Loop

The Overlook Trail follows a loop path of just under a mile the climbs from the oasis-like park setting in Kershaw Ryan State Park into the arid canyon above before dropping back into another side of the canyon. Hikers seeking a bit more of a challenge and the wider vistas that come with it may want to hike the Canyon View Trail, which heads further out along this path. Though the Overlook Trail has a few good views of its own.

Head out through the lush canyon and hike out into the exposed and dry wash. At a fork in the trail that may or may not be signed, head left. This path will soon take you to another fork where another left turn will lead to a gradual descent. A bench provides a great vantage point to look down into the lush garden area of the park. Soon, handrails carved into the stone steps lead to the final descent before the trail touches down at an area just beneath the parking area.

The Overlook Trail offers a chance to see the variety of landscapes within Kershaw Ryan on a relatively short path that is hikeable by most ability levels. Note that the brief arid portion of the trail contains no shade. Hikers are subject to park rules, including 8 a.m. to sunset park hours and a $5 entrance fee.