Kiskadee Trail (1/8 mile) starts between the Visitor Center and the refuge office building. This short, shaded loop surrounds a shallow pond that holds water in wet years. Featuring an observation deck and small bridge, Kiskadee Trail offers even the casual hiker an opportunity for a close-up view of several native shrubs and trees and possibly a variety of birds.

Mesquite Trail (1? mile) starts at the Visitor Center parking lot. Trees shade portions of the trail as it winds through grassy savannas. Two small ponds located along the trail hold water in wet years. Signs of deer and coyote are evident along the trail.

Paisano Trail (1 mile) is a remnant of the gunnery range located here during World War II. Verdin, roadrunner, long-billed thrasher, and plain chachalaca await the watchful birder. Our only paved trail, it is good in wet weather.

Lakeside Trail (1? miles) starts at Osprey Overlook on the Laguna Atascosa. Views of the lake and thorn forest provide the possibility of good birding. Wildflowers are plentiful, especially during March and April.

Moranco Blanco (3 1/10 miles) starts a short distance past Redhead Ridge on Bayside Drive. Moranco Blanco is a primitive route with good views of the bay and yucca in bloom (spring).

Alligator Pond: Alligator watching has become very popular at the refuge. During wet years they seem to inhabit every pond. Alligator Pond, .25 miles south of Osprey Overlook, usually has a gator or two. Alligators can also sometimes be seen on the resaca on Lakeside Drive. Alligators can be dangerous; stay on the road and do not feed or disturb them. Keep a close eye on small children and pets.

Biking:

Bicycles are permitted on tour roads and some service roads. Service roads are primitive routes where riders should be prepared for emergencies. Check with refuge staff for approved routes. Bring plenty of water, know how to repair a flat, and be able to walk several miles if your bike breaks down. Off-road riding is prohibited.

From Harlingen, go east on Highway 106 14 miles past Rio Hondo. Take a left at the T and drive 3 miles to the visitor center. From South Padre Island, take Highway 100 out of Port Isabel and exit right on Farm Road 510 at Laguna Vista. Continue 5.4 miles to the Cameron County Airport road. Take a right and continue approximately 7 miles to the visitor center. From Brownsville, go north on Paredes Line Road (1847) through Los Fresnos to Highway 106. Take a right and go approximately 10 miles to the T. Take a left and drive 3 miles to the visitor center.