Texas Executive Hiked New 100-Mile Spring Trail
A state-mandated trail connecting San Antonio to Austin aims to boost regional public health through land conservation.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Hiking
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Great Springs Project CEO Garry Merritt has begun a 100-mile hike to highlight a massive conservation initiative connecting four iconic Texas springs. The project, mandated by state law, aims to protect 50,000 acres of the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.
Why it matters
The trail initiative addresses long-term water and land conservation while creating new infrastructure for outdoor physical activity across Texas. This development marks a major milestone in linking major population hubs through accessible green space.
House Bill 4230, passed in September 2025, codifies the development of the 100-mile trail corridor linking four major spring systems. The project is currently being built in phases based on a combination of funding, permitting, and construction realities.
The players
Garry Merritt
The CEO of the Great Springs Project who is hiking the proposed route to advocate for land and water conservation.
Great Springs Project
A nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting 50,000 acres of land and connecting iconic Texas spring systems.
The details
The trail is designed to connect Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs, and San Antonio Springs, creating a continuous corridor between Austin and San Antonio. The project utilizes a phased construction approach, incorporating segments like the Limestone Link in San Marcos, which opened in August 2026. This network serves as both a recreational asset and a conservation strategy for the Edwards Aquifer.
Timeline
September 2025: House Bill 4230 was signed into law.
August 2026: The Limestone Link in San Marcos opened to the public.
Weekend of October 10-11, 2026: Garry Merritt began his 100-mile hike.
2036: The official trail completion deadline for the Texas bicentennial.
Health Landscape
This trail development represents an evolution in regional health infrastructure by integrating environmental protection directly with public recreation. It follows the pattern set by House Bill 4230, which formalizes the link between land conservation in the Edwards Aquifer and public accessibility.
As new trail segments like the Limestone Link continue to open, residents should check local park maps to identify safe, accessible routes for walking or hiking near these spring systems. Consult your physician if you are planning to increase your physical activity levels significantly as new public infrastructure becomes available.
The takeaway
The trail project highlights the growing intersection of conservation and public health in the Texas corridor. Residents can track project progress and support the mission by exploring existing sections like the Limestone Link in San Marcos.
Further reading
For more on how state-level projects support local outdoor activities, see Hiking.
More information
Find project updates and route maps on the Great Springs Project official website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MySA.
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