Squabble Creek is Rockwall's real mountain-bike trail system

Most people picture Rockwall as boat ramps and lakefront lawns, so the dirt at 1401 Dickson Lane surprises newcomers. Squabble Creek is a genuine mountain-bike system, six miles of trail laid out as six connected single-track loops, with hills, tight-and-twisty stretches, smooth flowing sections, and a few fun rollers where the trail rides the creek.

It's not bikes-only. The trails are open to hikers, runners, and folks walking a dog, so a weekday evening you'll see all of them out there. The gates run 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and there are restrooms and a drinking fountain at the trailhead, which makes it an easy after-work stop rather than a whole expedition.

Dirt trails change with the weather, though. North Texas blackland clay turns to glue after rain, and riding it wet chews up the tread. The local DORBA volunteers who help maintain it post conditions, so glancing at that before you head out saves both your ride and the trail.