Texas Hikes and Brews: A Rambler's Guide to a Perfect Day (The Texas Experience, Books made possible by Sarah '84 and Mark '77 Philpy)

Is there a better way to spend a Texas afternoon than outdoors on a trail and then sitting back to relax with a cold one? Authors Jay Maddock and Debra Kellstedt would say there isn’t. Texas Hikes and Brews: A Rambler’s Guide to a Perfect Day presents twenty-four different hiking itineraries throughout the Lone Star State, each coupled with an outstanding independent brewery.

While Texas abounds with hiking opportunities, Maddock and Kellstedt focus on exploring the less-traveled spots across the state, selecting routes primarily located in state parks and an occasional national park and local greenway. Divided into four geographic sections radiating outwards from their home base of College Station, readers will find sites local to Central Texas and stretching all the way out to Big Bend. From short hikes of just over a mile to some of more than ten miles, there’s a hike for those of all skill levels, designed to reveal the beauty of Texas. The breweries represent the independent flavor of Texas craft brewing, providing a full picture of the specialties, the physical space, and food offerings.

Each hike includes data points such as type of trail, completion time, miles, number of steps, and other vital information (restroom facilities, for example) for readers. Maddock and Kellstedt further expound on individual subjects such as landscape features, Texas history, facts about beer and brewing, and “pro tips” from the authors (state park annual passes are a must).

Whether you’re interested in discovering new sites for getting into the Lone Star State’s great outdoors or are a craft beer aficionado looking to support small business breweries—or maybe even both—Texas Hikes and Brews is for you.

JAY MADDOCK is a Regents Professor at Texas A&M University and directs the Center for Health & Nature. DEBRA KELLSTEDT is an assistant professor and extension specialist at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.