OutKick Outdoors Picks 5 Lubbock Hikes for No. 12 Texas Tech's Week 1 Opener

Q: Which popular Lubbock hiking destination is unexpectedly closed to football fans this season due to major construction?

The affected destination is **Buffalo Springs Lake**. While it was highlighted as one of the best hiking options near Lubbock for Texas Tech visitors, part of Buffalo Springs Lake is temporarily closed because of major construction tied to the **McMillan Dam upgrade**. According to local reporting, access to **McMillan Dam, the nearby nature trail, and adjacent fishing areas** has been shut off for safety while crews use heavy equipment in the area. That means football fans hoping to use Buffalo Springs Lake’s popular nature trail this season may find that specific area off-limits until the dam work is completed, which officials said is expected by the end of the year.

Q: What ancient 12,000-year-old secret awaits Texas Tech fans exploring the trails just outside the football stadium?

The “12,000-year-old secret” is at **Lubbock Lake Landmark**, where evidence of human habitation on the South Plains dates back nearly **12,000 years**. Just outside Texas Tech’s football setting in Lubbock, the landmark offers more than a casual hike. Its nearly five miles of trails run through open prairie and along **Yellowhouse Draw**, where visitors can see an important archaeological preserve with signs of ancient camps, animal remains and excavation areas tied to some of the region’s earliest known residents. Additional local material notes the site preserves roughly **13,000 years of history**, making it one of the area’s most significant stops for fans who want history and outdoors in one trip. It is also one of the easiest and most accessible options for visiting fans. Admission is **free**, the trails are generally considered **easy**, and the site is family-friendly. Some sources also note that **leashed dogs are allowed** on the trails. Anyone heading out should still prepare for **hot, dry West Texas conditions** in early September. Bringing plenty of water, sun protection and light clothing is especially important because much of the area is exposed. So for Texas Tech fans looking for the hidden story beyond game day, the answer is a short trip to **Lubbock Lake Landmark**—where a simple walk can double as a look into **12,000 years of human history**.

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 1

Five Lubbock-area hiking spots were highlighted for fans traveling to see No. 12 Texas Tech face Abilene Christian in Week 1, with Lubbock Lake Landmark billed as the must-do stop.
West Texas heat shaped the guide, which warned September visitors about dehydration and urged hydration and appropriate clothing despite the area's drier conditions.
Lubbock Lake Landmark offers nearly 5 miles of trail and free admission, while Dunbar Historical Lake adds 2-mile and 5-mile loop options popular with hikers and mountain bikers.
Buffalo Springs Lake and Mae Simmons Park were pitched as closer-in scenic choices, pairing canyon and lake views with rougher terrain and city-access convenience.
Caprock Canyons State Park, 90 miles from Lubbock, was the farthest recommendation, featuring 25 miles of trails, a 2.3-mile overlook climb and roaming bison for extended-stay visitors.