wellness
Cycling Routes Safe for Families and Beginners Expand Across Laredo Parks
Newly marked paths in two city parks give Laredo households low-traffic options for weekend rides.
How we reported this
Laredo Parks and Recreation opened three new beginner loops on July 1 along the southern edge of Lake Casa Blanca and the northern section of Chacon Creek.
The routes respond to rising demand for family outings as Laredo’s active wellness culture draws more households outdoors during the summer months. City records show permit requests for group cycling events climbed from 42 in June 2025 to 67 this June.
Marked paths at two parks
The Lake Casa Blanca loop runs 2.4 miles on a paved service road closed to motor vehicles from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily. Families enter at the main park gate on Bob Bullock Loop and follow blue arrows past the fishing pier. A second 1.8-mile circuit starts at the Chacon Creek trailhead on McPherson Road near the Del Mar neighborhood and stays on crushed-gravel paths separated from traffic. Both sites offer free parking and water fountains checked weekly by parks staff.
The Laredo Bicycle Coalition runs free Saturday clinics at these locations through August, supplying helmets for children under 12 and basic bike checks before each session.
Participation numbers and costs
A 2025 city health survey counted 1,150 residents in organized family rides, a 30 percent jump from the 2024 total. Single-day bike rentals at the Lake Casa Blanca concession stand cost $12 for adults and $7 for children, with all-day family packages at $35. Helmets and locks are included.
Residents can download the current route map from the city website or pick up paper copies at the parks office on Hidalgo Street before heading out. Riders are advised to start before 9 a.m. to avoid peak heat and to carry water for the full loop distance.