Haller's Haven Trail - Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Haller's Haven Trail is located at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge along Lake Texoma. The trail is a lollipop loop just under three miles in length. It can be accessed via the Goode Day Use Area Northwest of the refuge's visitor center. If you are visiting the refuge and your time is limited or you are not up for a longer trail, such as the Meadow Pond Trail, this is a good trail to traverse. The trail includes ponds, lake views, and forest.
A short distance after you begin the trail, to your right you will encounter the aptly named Picnic Pond. This is a small pond with picnic tables where you can rest, admire a view of the pond, or enjoy a picnic.
A short distance beyond Picnic Pond, you will come to a bridge. After crossing this bridge, you will be able to view Lake Texoma to your left and Dead Woman Pond to your right. Birds are likely to be found on pond.
Continuing past Dead Woman Pond, the trail turns to forest. On the November afternoon which I traversed the trail, many leaves had fallen from the trees. However, those that remained showed the beauty of their fall colors.
At roughly 3/4 mile into the trail, the split occurs which creates the lollipop. This trail is well defined and well marked by signs such as the one shown in the picture.
A spur from the main trail, provides access to the lake. Taking this spur will add just under one-half mile to your hike.
The loop portion of the trail runs through some beautiful forest. On my hike, no wildlife other than birds was encountered. However, numerous tracks indicated the presence of wildlife such as deer and feral hogs. With the completion of the loop, you will make your way back to the trailhead to finish the trail.
Along the trail are benches which allow you take a break, admire views of the lake and ponds, or watch wildlife.
There is no fee to access Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is open sunrise to sunset. A vault toilet is available in the Goode Day Use Area. Be advised that portions of the refuge are closed during the year for hunting. Check the refuge or Friends of Hagerman websites to find dates. Hagerman National Wildlife is a North Texas gem. Even if you opt to forgo a hike on one of the refuge's trails, it is worth your time just to drive through the refuge roads and admire the wildlife, especially the birds.
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