Do you want to hike to Government Canyon’s Protected Habitat (Pro Hab)? Are you feeling unsure about taking on such a long hike? Join experienced guides who will lead you on a series of progressively longer hikes to help you prepare for the annual Pro Hab hike. These hikes will take place on rocky, uneven trails with moderate elevation change.
Protected Habitat Area trails are open annually from September-February. This training hike is one of a three-part series leading up to the full 13-mile Pro Hab Hike. The annual 13-mile guided hike will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2025. NOTE: In case of inclement weather on January 4, the hike will be rescheduled to January 11, 2025.
Prep Hike 1: Saturday, October 19, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm; 6-7 miles
Prep Hike 2: Saturday, November 16, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm; 8-9 miles
Prep Hike 3: Saturday, December 14, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm; 9-10 miles
Annual Pro Hab Hike: Saturday, January 4, 2025, 8:00am - 3:00pm; 12-13 miles (January 11; rain date)
Join any or all of these hikes as we get ready for the main event. While this series of hikes will help you prepare for the longer Pro Hab Hike in January, a consistent training plan is encouraged to avoid injuries.
Who is Invited
Open to ages 14 and older; participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; no pets please.
Registration & Fees
Registration is NOT required for this hike; however the group size is limited to the first 15 people that check-in with the hike leader between 7:30 and 7:45.
Though the hike is free, all Natural Area entry fees apply.
To save time at the Fee Booth on crowded days and ensure entrance, please pre-purchase and PRINT OUT a Day Pass. Please note: reserving a Day Pass does not guarantee a spot for you on the hike! You MUST check-in with the hike leader!
When & Where to Meet
Meet at the Rainwater Tower next to the Visitors’ Center and be ready to go no later than 7:45AM. The hike starts promptly at 8:00AM.
What to Wear & Bring
Dress in layers appropriate to the weather. Carry at least 3 liters of water per person, snacks, lunch, sunscreen, bug spray and hat. Wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking shoes or boots. To reduce human impact on the Natural Area, please follow the Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics.
Cancellation & Details
This program is subject to cancellation. Should there be inclement weather, please check Natural Area conditions by calling GCSNA's main office at 210-688-9055, or go to GCSNA’s website, twitter feed or Facebook page.
If ADA assistance is required, please request modifications using this form, or email accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov at least 2 weeks in advance.