Simmons Research Trail

Cross the side driveway (where roadrunners are commonly seen!) and follow the shorter John Barr Trail to the extended loop of the Simmons Research Trail.

The trail highlights the research conducted by the Center to better understand the effects of fire, grazing and mowing on the growth of native grasses and landscapes. There are several plots representing research on ecological design such as green roofs. Here, researchers collect real-time data on how native plants are responding to temperature and stormwater runoff. 

What You’ll See on This Trail

  • The effects of prescribed fires on native landscapes
  • A variety of grasses, cacti, wildflowers, trees and shrubs throughout the year
  • A sinkhole where rainwater begins an underground journey to Barton Springs
  • Research plots where data is actively collected year round and applied to various studies

Dig Deeper

Tour With a Land Steward

LOCATION
TRAIL LENGTH
  • .6 miles
EXPLORE PLANTS

FIND A PLANT

Discover the Native Plants of North America