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The Cistern at Buffalo Bayou Park – Explore Sign loop from University of Saint Thomas

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

The Cistern at Buffalo Bayou Park – Explore Sign loop from University of Saint Thomas

Moderate

2.7

(16)

hikers

The Cistern at Buffalo Bayou Park – Explore Sign loop from University of Saint Thomas

02:25

9.43km

40m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 19, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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2.19 km

Sandy Reed Trail

Highlight • Trail

Love all the sculptures and art installations around. This area is less shady than the areas closer to downtown though so please keep that in mind

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3.26 km

View of Houston Skyline

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

It is VERY hot during the summer, Free parking is available across the bayou at the visitor center

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4.28 km

Hobby Center Pedestrian Bridge and View of Houston Skyline

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

The Hobby Center Pedestrian Bridge connects both sides of the Sabine Promenade, which runs along Buffalo Bayou, providing a convenient way to access the trail on either side, away from the busy street. The views of the Houston skyline from the bridge are spectacular, especially in the evening when the city lights create a beautiful backdrop.

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4.85 km

The Cistern at Buffalo Bayou Park

Highlight • Monument

The Cistern, in the Buffalo Bayou Park in Houston, is one of the first underground drinking-water reservoirs in the city. It was built in 1926 to supply the city with water and is open for the public to explore.

The interior of the cistern consists of a dimly lit chamber with rows of concrete columns. For more information on opening times and prices, visit this website buffalobayou.org/location/the-cistern

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