Aransas Pathways

Rockport and Fulton have been tourist destinations since the 1890s when the railroad came to Aransas County. More than a century later, these communities draw visitors seeking to get away from the hectic day-to-day pace and enjoy the serenity of the Texas Coastal Bend. Beyond unplugging and recharging during your vacation, a trip to these side-by-side communities reveals a deep respect for the past and a dedication to preserving this important coastal ecosystem for future generations. Rockport and Fulton have done this in a spectacular fashion. They’ve developed dozens of outdoor destinations and historic sites that showcase the natural beauty and share the story of people who’ve called Aransas County home since its early days. Collectively, these sites form a network called Aransas Pathways. To travel these pathways is to discover the area’s wildlife, nature, waterways, and history.

Pay a visit to the Aransas Pathways Pavilion in Rockport to plan your journey. Information placards highlight dozens of unique destinations across four areas: Birding, Hike & Bike, Kayaking, and History. The sites have been carefully chosen to guide you to the incredible destinations in the area, to foster an appreciation for the rich biodiversity, and to promote conservation.

Aransas Pathways’ world-class birding sites attract everyone from casual observers to experienced birdwatchers from around the globe. Bird watching venues include the Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, Ivy Lane, and the Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary — a 6-acre preserve named after the renowned ornithologist who first described hummingbird migration in Texas. Trails through coastal grasslands, ancient oak forests, and waterfront parks invite you to connect with nature either on foot or by bicycle. Meanwhile, paddlers will have plenty of freshwater streams, lakes, and sheltered bays to explore. Aransas Pathways’ kayak launches allow you to get in and out of the water easily so you can spend your time taking a leisurely cruise through coastal marshes, embarking on multi-day expedition along the Rockport-Fulton Paddling Trail, or anything in between.

No matter which avenue you choose to discover, you’ll find nature and history converge along the Texas Coastal Bend, with historic markers paying tribute to the people and events that have played a part in what you see today. For those who want to delve more deeply into the area’s heritage, Aransas Pathways’ fourth avenue for discovery leads visitors to the History Center of Aransas County and self-guided historic walking tours of Rockport and Fulton.

Perhaps several avenues have piqued your interest. Aransas Pathways makes creating your ideal, one-of-a-kind itinerary a breeze whether you visit for the day or for the week. Combine what you love to do and set out on a journey of discovery that’s uniquely your own.

For a full list of destinations and additional information, please visit Aransas Pathways official website.