Little Rattler Loop - 53 Miles - Moderate
- Seth Newsome
- Jun 10, 2024
- 2 min read
The Little Rattler Loop is a perfect weekend adventure! Beginning in downtown Stephenville, you'll wander through town, passing the picturesque Tarleton State University campus, before joining the somewhat busy FM 8 highway toward Lingleville.
The initial and final 6.5 miles of this journey are on pavement as you return to town, while the remaining 39 miles consist of roughly 90% gravel. What makes this route special is not just one, but TWO stops at the renowned Lingleville Country Store. Here, you can indulge in some of the finest third-wave coffee, homemade muffins, pies, cheesecakes, and a rotating selection of craft beer and premium cigars. If you're on a family trip or vacation, consider having your significant other meet you at the store to enjoy these treats without facing the additional 16 or so miles back to Stephenville.
Regardless of how you choose to tackle this route, you'll discover some of northwest Erath County's hidden gravel road gems. Many of these roads are seldom traveled, frequented mainly by ranchers and wind project traffic. As you ride, you'll reach one of the closest points to the area's wind energy projects (at the map's northeast corner). Take a moment to pause, listen to the powerful turbines whirring in the prevailing south wind, and recharge your own batteries before taking on what is sure to be a prevailing headwind for a few miles before turning back towards Lingleville.
Embrace the vast expanses and unobstructed vistas of the rolling hills, and don't forget to stop and capture photos of the Texas wildflowers that bloom during the spring and early summer months.
You'll find yourself captivated by the serene beauty of these tranquil country lanes as you navigate through creek bottoms and challenging hills, ultimately rewarded with exhilarating descents and tree-lined roads.
During the hot summer months, carry at least three bottles of water or a hydration pack. While you can replenish your supplies at the Lingleville Country Store around miles 16 and 36, the relatively long stretches between stops on a sultry summer day may necessitate a bit of extra nutrition.
Always remember that Lingleville is one of the highest points in the area, so save a little energy for the climb back into town. From Lingleville back to Stephenville, you'll generally enjoy a downhill to flat route with a mostly favorable prevailing tailwind.