Things To Do in Aransas Pathways

When Shakespeare wrote, “The earth has music for those who listen,” he could have been writing about the Texas Coastal Bend. Whether music for you is the call of the songbird, the lapping waves, or the rhythm of your kayak paddles slicing through glassy water, nature’s playlist accompanies those who travel Aransas Pathways.
Aransas Pathways isn’t just a single sanctuary or walking trail, but rather a network of outdoor destinations designed to connect you with nature through bird watching, hiking/biking, and kayaking. Aransas Pathways’ fourth avenue of exploration leads visitors on a journey back in time to discover the historic events and notable people (including Connie Hagar — The Bird Lady of Rockport) who shaped Aransas County.

Go Birdwatching

When Connie Hagar first came to Rockport and began bird watching, virtually nothing was known about hummingbirds and their migration through Texas. As a self-taught ornithologist, Connie’s study of hummingbirds and other migratory birds put Aransas County on the National Audubon Society’s map. If Aransas County is on your birding list, it’s time to grab your binoculars, load your Merlin app, and keep your ears peeled for the music of songbirds. Connie Hagar’s old stomping grounds are now top destinations for bird watching, particularly during the migration when hundreds of different species pass through the area. Aransas Pathways has made birding easy whether this is your first outing or you’re a seasoned birdwatcher looking to check whooping cranes off your list.
You’ll find birding sites through coastal prairies and stands of ancient live oaks. Favorites include the Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, Ivy Lane, and the Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. Each nature preserve provides a rest stop for migratory songbirds and Monarch butterflies. 
Other birding sites in the Aransas Pathway network allow a bird’s eye view of wading birds and waterfowl from boardwalks and bridges hovering over coastal marshes, lakes, and creeks. Sites to check out include Shellcrete Birding and Nature Site and the Holiday Beach Pond. You may even spot endangered whooping cranes that are making a comeback thanks to conservation efforts and protected habitats like those offered by Aransas Pathway, Goose Island State Park, and Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

Explore the Nature Trails

For those seeking some solitude and time to commune with nature, you’ll find scenic hiking and biking trails throughout Aransas Pathway’s network of outdoor destinations. Trails range from easy walks through ancient oak forests and along coastal wetlands to more challenging treks that offer stunning views overlooking the bays.
For cyclists, the granddaddy of all trails is the Aransas County Grand Tour Route. The looped, hard-surface route takes riders through the historic downtown areas of Rockport and Fulton, as well as along the coast. Biking the entire 40-mile course is geared for experienced cyclists, but portions of the route through residential areas and along the coast are suited for less advanced riders.

Kayak Along the Coastline

Paddle your way through the coastal ecosystem to find yet another path to solitude and a whole new perspective on the environment. You’ll discover peaceful lagoons, saltwater marshes, and tree-lined freshwater streams that are havens for wildlife. Every level of kayaker — from beginner to sea-worthy — will find a route to experience the serenity and the unspoiled natural beauty of the coast. Whether you want to check out the estuaries to spot birds, fish in the meandering waterways, or watch the sun set over the bay, Aransas Pathways’ kayak launch sites have you covered. The variety and locations of launch sites accommodate both your skill level and interests.

Those with several days on their itinerary can tackle the 30.2 mile-Rockport-Fulton Paddling Trail. The journey takes you from Port Bay in the south, through Copano and St. Charles Bays, to the idyllic Cavasso Creek in the north. Novices and those who have less time to spare can enjoy shorter portions of the route. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.

Discover Rockport-Fulton's Rich History

Along with conserving the delicate coastal ecosystem, Aransas Pathways honors the people and preserves the history that have made Rockport and Fulton the destinations they are today. The History Center of Aransas County, located in an 1800s Queen Anne-Victorian Cottage, shares the area’s rich heritage through indoor and outdoor exhibits which change on a regular basis.
Throughout Rockport and Fulton, you’ll find markers identifying historic homes, businesses, churches, and graves. Both cities have self-guided walking tours of their historic downtowns, as well. While visiting the San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railroad Depot — a historic landmark in Rockport — check out the Aransas Pathways’ information kiosk. Here you can chart a course for discovery and adventure that makes your heart sing!