Lost Maples Maple Trail is one of Lost Maples State Natural Area's standout hiking destinations, winding through TX's diverse terrain. The trail covers 10.0 miles with 1800 feet of elevation change, making it a hard outing suitable for experienced hikers. Trail stats: 10.0 miles, 1800ft elevation gain, Hard difficulty. Surface: Rocky. Trail type: Loop. Estimated time: 5-7 hours. Fee: $6/person. Dogs: No. Permit: No. Wildlife in the area includes golden-cheeked warblers, deer, black bears. Keep your eyes open and maintain a respectful distance from any animals you encounter. Best seasons: October-November for bigtooth maples; spring also beautiful. Recommended gear: sturdy trail shoes, 2+ liters of water, sunscreen, and a trail map. In summer, an early start beats the heat on this exposed TX trail. Practice Leave No Trace: pack out all waste, stay on the marked trail, and leave rocks and plants undisturbed.