On May 3, Sul Ross State University invites the public to take a guided hike up Hancock Hill with native plant expert Helen Snook, who will share her knowledge of West Texas ecology and restoration efforts while leading a moderately strenuous 1.8-mile trek.
The free hike, which runs from 9 to 11 a.m., is part of an ongoing program hosted by SRSU staff to connect community members and visitors with the natural and cultural history of Alpine. Though the famous Sul Ross Desk won’t be part of this route, participants will enjoy sweeping views of the town and surrounding desert while learning about the native grasses and forbs that help define the Big Bend region.
Snook, a team member with West Texas Native Seeds, is deeply involved in the collection and production of local seed varieties used in regional land restoration. Her work spans from greenhouse cultivation in Alpine to on-the-ground conservation in Africa, where she and her husband frequently assist with wildlife surveys and education efforts.
The hike begins at the Hancock Hill Trailhead, 700 N. Bird Street, and includes a 383-foot elevation gain over rocky and sometimes steep terrain. Space is limited to 12 participants, and pre-registration is required. Organizers stress that participants should be confident in their ability to hike at a brisk pace on uneven ground.
In addition to her work in Alpine, Snook has supported mountain lion research in the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park, and conducted amphibian surveys for the City of Austin. She holds a master’s degree in Ecology from the University of Tennessee, where she focused her field research on human-elephant conflict in Kenya.
Participants should bring 1–2 liters of water, wear closed-toed shoes with good traction, and dress in long pants and layers suitable for sun and wind. The hike is free of charge but contingent on weather conditions and may not be rescheduled.
For more information or to register, email GuidedHikes@sulross.edu.
