Laguna Atascosa NWR--West Lake Route

Tips for Birding

National Wildlife Refuge pass required. This can be an intimidatingly long route if done as a loop on foot. However, a section of the trail can be done from the Prairie Trail parking lot. From the lot, head across General Brant Road and trek north. The trail wends through wet prairie, wetlands, and a couple of ponds before reaching Laguna Atascosa at about two miles. the trail then continues along the west side of the laguna. 

Birds of Interest

Long-billed Curlew, Harris's Hawk, Swamp Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark.

About this Location

Rest room access depends on where you start your walk. There are rest rooms at the refuge visitor center at some distance from this trail.

About Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

See all hotspots at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Laguna Atascosa was established in 1946 to provide habitats for wintering waterfowl and other migratory birds, principally redhead ducks. Today, there is an expanded emphasis that includes endangered species conservation and management for shorebirds. The refuge is a premiere bird-watching destination with more recorded species of birds than any other refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The refuge is open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset. There is something for everyone, with over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails. Maps and a self-pay station are located on the right-hand side of the visitor center door. The refuge has five bird feeding stations and four water features around the visitor center. The visitor center trails are ADA accessible, and at 0.8 of a mile, with plenty of bird viewing areas, the trails are a birder's must! Once you get your birding in, take a beautiful scenic bike ride around the 14.2-mile loop of Steve Thompson Wildlife Drive (STWD). The only driving trail is Lakeside Drive. This trail will take you to Osprey Overlook; Osprey Overlook overlooks our 3,500-acre freshwater lake named after the refuge. There are multiple trailheads near this location, Gator Pond, Scum Pond, and County Trail. One of our most popular hikes is going south on the Gator Pond, turning east on Mud Trail, and then north on Scum Pond; this short 3-mile hike is excellent for every outdoor enthusiast.

Notable Trails

The full route is long. A short out-and-back route is possible from the trailhead on General Brant Road.

Features

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge Official Website and Chuck Hundertmark

Last updated March 10, 2024