Hiking Texas Old Zoo Trails Reveals a History and Rugged Beauty

Tucked away east of Abilene, the Old Zoo Nature Trails in Cisco might be one of the strangest hikes you’ll ever take. I visited this spot years ago, not knowing what to expect. I admit this trail is no joke. It may look like a short stroll, but if you’re not prepared, it’ll wear you out faster than a summer sunburn on a 105-degree day.

My Trip to the Trail: Curiosity Met Its Match

I went out of sheer curiosity, having heard the buzz about an “abandoned zoo” hike near Cisco. I didn’t pack water or sunscreen. I was at Lake Cisco testing for my scuba license, and I was completely unprepared. Big mistake. After about 30 minutes on the trail, the heat and rugged terrain had me turning back. This isn’t your average park path; it's an intense trail.

If you plan to hike the entire trail, come prepared with water, hiking boots, and maybe even a friend who knows their way around backcountry paths. While parts of it are less than a mile, the overgrown brush, stone steps, and eerie old enclosures make this trail more adventurous.

The Ghost of the Cisco Zoo

Back in the 1920s, this site was home to the Cisco Zoo, a small but lively tourist destination that also featured a swimming pool and cabin rentals. Unfortunately, after a couple of tragic animal deaths, the zoo began to decline and was eventually shut down. While the pool stayed open for a few more decades, the zoo itself was slowly swallowed by nature.

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Rusting iron gates, crumbling animal enclosures, and some moss-covered staircases are all that remain today. Walking through it feels like a place where time stopped, and nature took over.

Saved by the SAFE Team

Thanks to a local nonprofit called SAFE, Students, Athletics, Families, and Education, the old zoo site has been partially restored and opened as a nature trail. Their work cleared the brush and created a walkable, though rugged, hiking path through the ruins. Today, the trail is open to the public, offering an unforgettable experience.

More Than Just Ruins, It’s Scenic Too

While the zoo ruins are the main draw, the trail also offers some breathtaking views of the Eastland County landscape. Who could ever imagine that this part of West Texas would be this lush, green, and beautiful? It’s a surprisingly peaceful, quiet hike where you'll only hear an occasional bird call or your heart beating as you walk.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re planning a visit, respect the trail. Although it's a short hike, it packs a punch with its rugged terrain. And yes, you’ll need plenty of water and real hiking shoes. This isn’t just another walk in the park; it’s a walk through our awesome Texas history located at 4902 Hwy 6, Co Rd 112, in Cisco, Texas.