Embedded Files
The ILC trails are available for ILC, DIU, PBT, and friends.
This site is dedicated to the trails on the International Linguistics Center in Dallas, TX.
Center Trails Map
Center Trails Map
Click here to open or download the 5/10/2025 center trails map.
The light green arrows show entry points to the MK Trace from the Center. The Center trails have trail map signs at most junctions to help you keep track of where you are.
Lower trails are shared with mountain bikes from Big Cedar Wilderness Trails by Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA). These trails are unidirectional for DORBA riders and are indicated with blue stars.
Orange triangular warnings indicate trails that leave the Center to adjoining trails. Beware of going beyond these points without an extended trail map or apps to help you keep from getting lost.
No Public Access signs are posted on some lower trails to keep DORBA bikers from using the upper trails. ILC hikers can ignore these signs.
Coyotes, bobcats, and snakes are occasionally on the trail. You should not avoid the trails due to wildlife, but keep your eyes open and keep your distance if you see any.
Click here for a trail map that extends beyond the Center and for interactive maps.
Click here for information on trail map signs.
Guidelines
Guidelines
Always carry water with you.
Hike with a buddy, or make sure someone knows where you are.
Learn the name of each trail you are on, and check sign posts for locations on the map.
Do not walk on the trails when muddy, after a heavy rain.
Dog owners, show respect for others by brushing droppings well off the path.
BIKES
BIKES
Mountain bikes are available for DIU students to check out. It is highly suggested that first-time riders go in a group with others. Contact Jack Shoemaker for details.
3 WORDS
3 WORDS
Each trail map lists three unique words, known as what3words. These words can be entered on the free what3words app or website to identify the precise location of any 3-meter square on Earth. This can be used when giving your location to an emergency responder, or just telling a friend exactly where you are.
Highlights along the center trails
Trail Trotters
Trail Trotters
Here you will find links to images and descriptions of all the flowers and trees here on the ILC in Dallas, TX, documented by the delightful Jack Shoemaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use the trails?
Anyone who is affiliated with the International Linguistics Center or SIL Global.
Where can I find these trails?
You can find trailheads all around campus. There is one major trailhead just inside the gate, across the road from the Mahler and Pike buildings. There is another major trailhead at the community gardens (near the warehouse/mail center). The Center trail map above has large green arrows at all entry points to the trails from the Center.
Help! I'm lost!
Not really a question, but okay. Trail maps are posted at most trail intersections. When in doubt, try to find trails that lead uphill. There are some trail connections that lead away from the ILC property. The trail maps have orange triangular warning signs at locations where you are leaving the trail. Click here for maps and information to use when off ILC trails.
What's with that pond and structure on The Path Down Under?
There is a water retaining pond east of Delphinium Knoll. This started out as a project by a World Arts student, along with a building for ducks and a pump house to provide water for the ducks and some trees. The project was cancelled, but the pond and buildings are still standing. Be careful around the pond with young children, but otherwise enjoy the site and additional wildlife that are around it.
What about riding bikes on the trail?
The best places to ride mountain bikes are on the Beaver Run, Arcade Link, and Arcade trails indicated with stars on Center trail maps. These trails are loops off of the DORBA/Big Cedar main Ranger trail and are shared with DORBA riders. These trails are one-way trails as are all DORBA trails. These riders are not supposed to come further onto the ILC trails, which is indicated by No Access signs. However, ILC members are free to ride bikes on all trails in either direction. But any time you encounter hikers, respectively give the right-of-way to the hikers.
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