Sweaty Taste of the xTx: Hill Country Challenge Nov. 2-7, 2025

Join us for a unique, weeklong field test of the proposed xTexas Trail. Equestrians, cyclists, are coming together to travel approximately 100 miles in the Texas Hill Country, evaluating the route and helping shape the future of a statewide long-distance trail.

We'll be in rugged, remote, rural and romantic Real County testing the route and exploring the region from Medina through Leakey to Rock Springs. The location is one of the most stunning along the route.

Your hosts for this event are xTx Founder and Board Chair Charlie Gandy and our Executive Director in Training Beckie Irvin.

Note: You can come for just one day, the full time, or anything in between depending on your schedule and your energy!

There are two ways you can participate in this event:

1. As a "hands on" ground proofer hiking, biking, or riding your horse along the draft route and testing it out. This may also include your support team.
2. As someone who wants to learn more about long distance trail stewardship and leadership by attending our nightly sessions. Your days will be open, but we hope you'll support the xTx mission by visiting and documenting local amenties to share them for our photo bank and social media.

This is not a race — it’s a working event. Participants will log hazards, test mixed-user conditions, and provide feedback that will directly influence the design and safety of the xTexas Trail.

What to Expect"

• Daily mileage: 20+ miles on road shoulders and rural back roads for ground proofers
• Ground proofing participants must be fit, self-supported, and prepared for long days outdoors.
• All meals are on your own. Cabins at The Springs Retreat include full kitchens, or you may eat in town.
• Nightly gatherings will be held around 5:00 pm each day for those who’d like to share takeaways from that day's discoveries, help crowdsource options to any challenges, and learn about trail stewardship and leadership.
• Whether or not you stay on site at The Springs you're welcome to attend the nightly gatherings. S'mores will be provided!
• Dogs are welcome on property but not inside cabins. Do not plan to take dogs on the trail — conditions are unsafe for pets.

Lodging

Participants may book lodging directly at The Springs Retreat (cabins and limited RV hookups) or stay off-site in Leakey. Lodging is separate from event registration.

A Registration Fee is Required

Space is capped at 100 participants. A $100 registration fee helps cover direct event costs and staff support.

For more information, visit the event page on our website xTexas.org/events where you can find a detailed Participant Guide with answers to all of your questions!

Above: This is the route we'll be ground proofing different sections of! We'll be focused on Medina through Leakey to Rocksprings.

Below: Real County is known for its crystal clear rivers!