Rocky Hill is the best 45 minute trip that you can make from Austin. The main loop is about 16 miles total and you'll encounter a wide variety of trails, from the straightforward jeep trails to ledges, short climbs, twists through the trees, bunny hops over logs and more. And Fat Chuck is one hell of a climb!

Although there are many areas that the trial is actually rocky, it might as we have been named "Sandy Hill Ranch" because there are more sandy trails than anything else. Every time I leave, I end up cleaning out about a pound of sand out of my drive train. Once you finish your ride, there is no option to pass on the cafe. Teh Rocky Hill Cafe has awesome burgers and fresh cut fries (you deserve it) along with ice cold beer. To not stop is a crime - we will hunt you down.

About 45 miles southeast of Austin, just past Bastrop in Smithville.

Take Highway 71 east to Route 153. Follow 153 east about 2-3 miles to the entrance of Rocky Hill Ranch. Look for the old bike hanging from the gateposts.

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Low through high

About 16 miles but several different paths means you can make your own ride

Rocky, sandy, lots of loose soil and sand make cornering a challenge.

Trail map

GPX Format

Medium, but there are several water stations to make sure that nobody is without water. Later in the day they could run dry though

BAR - with the best burgers for 50 miles

$8 to ride

Fat Tire Ale - ice cold and waiting for you. If you are riding with a group, buy them a 6 pack of cold Shiner, it's cheap and good

Rocky Hill Ranch Website
Smithville Weather

Video

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Copyright 2009, John Fruehe