Annona to Avery

Before planning your trip, please review the Rules and Campsites posted on the NETT Coalition website.

Overview

The Westerly edge of the Avery portion of the trail starts at County Road 4310 in Red River County and continues for 6.2 miles to the Red River/Bowie County line. At 3.5 miles from the start you reach the city limits of Avery, Texas.

The Texas and Pacific Railway through Avery was opened on August 11, 1876. In the early 1990’s the railway ceased operations, removed the rails and the land was rail banked for recreational use.

From the 1920’s into the 1970’s Avery was known as the Tomato Capital of Texas. In 1946 a record 329 rail cars of tomatoes were shipped. By 1947, tomatoes provided a $1.1 million economic boost to Red River County. Three tomato sheds operated in Avery until 1966. Changing demands, marketing and government regulations brought the industry to an end in the early 1970’s. The area is now mainly agriculture use, mostly comprised of cattle and horse farms, with the trail bordering miles of pastoral scenery.

Avery is home to Avery ISD, a convenience store and two cafés, the Family Dollar Store and two antique stores.

North of the trail one mile you will find the Avery City Lake. It is equipped with picnic tables, grills, a newly renovated playground and a covered family gathering area. Operating hours are from dawn till dusk.

Avery Community Volunteer Fire Department sits on the trailhead in downtown Avery. They maintain a hostel/bunkroom for use by trail users on a donation basis. Camping beside the Fire station is also allowed. For info contact them on their Facebook Page “Avery Community Volunteer Fire Dept.”

Distance

8.4 miles

Surface

Very overgrown.

Condition

Rideable east of Garland Chapel Rd., but very overgrown and very rutted in parts, which may lead to large sections of standing water. Use US Hwy 82. The bridges in this section are not rideable. Travel at your own risk. Use Hwy 82 as an alternate route.

Facilities

Very limited parking in Annona and Avery.

Campsites

The public is asked to contact the person listed for each trail town to make reservations for camping. A complete list of campsites and contact information is posted on the NETT website.
Avery (Avery Volunteer Fire Department Hostel):
Contact Person – Gary Tucek (903) 244.4731