Along the Old Katy - 62 Miles - Challenging
One of the few mostly north–south mixed‑surface routes out of Stephenville, this ride begins on familiar Erath County "roadie" roads before the pavement finally gives way to dirt south of Harbin. A quick jaunt through Tarleton State University puts you on course, followed by nearly ten miles of smooth pavement to ease you into the day.
Once across FM 913 (Alexander Road), the route transitions primarily to gravel, crossing the Bosque River no fewer than three times on the way to the historic town—and newly crowned gravel destination—of Hico.
Settled in the mid‑1800s, Stephenville serves as the home base for this route. As you ride toward Hico, it’s hard not to imagine life in antebellum Erath and Hamilton Counties. Very much part of the Wild West, this region was Comanche territory until after the Civil War.
While the route doesn’t explicitly pass through the unincorporated town of Alexander, it does roll through nearby Clairette. Both communities emerged as the Missouri‑Kansas‑Texas Railroad pushed through the area in the early 20th century. More commonly known as the Katy Railroad, the MKT fueled growth in towns between Stephenville and Hico during the height of rail travel in the 1930s. This branch ran roughly from Waco to Stamford, with more than 30 stops along the way, according to a 1932 map.
As you continue, the Bosque River reappears in glimpses, culminating in one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the area—tree‑canopied lanes that parallel the river on the approach into Hico. Keep an eye out for abandoned bridges from former roadways and subtle remnants of the old Katy rail bed tucked alongside the route.
Beyond Clairette, you’ll cross the Bosque and its tributaries three separate times, including two striking iron trestle bridges weathered red after decades of standing guard over the water below. The shaded approach into Hico offers a welcome reprieve, especially on hot summer rides.
Use caution when entering Hico and crossing State Highway 6. Once safely through, refuel at the Allsup’s convenience store or linger a bit longer at one of Hico’s up‑and‑coming restaurants. Barbacelli’s is a solid choice for pizza, while Green Canoe Outfitters is a great stop for a cold drink or refreshment.
This is an excellent summertime route—often marked by headwinds on the ride into Hico and rewarded with a tailwind on the way home. There are no refueling stops between Stephenville and Hico, and cell service can be spotty. Come prepared with plenty of food and water, but most importantly, give yourself time to soak in the quiet, beautiful country roads of Erath and Hamilton Counties.