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Hikers Explore Trails & Win Park Passes through Wilco’s “25 in 25” Challenge at River Ranch

Results are in for the “25 in ‘25 Challenge” launched by the Williamson County Park’s Department on July 22, 2025, to celebrate the second anniversary of the opening of River Ranch County Park.

By the event’s November 30th deadline, over 50 participants had successfully met their goal by walking, hiking or jogging 25 miles within the park’s beautiful and extensive trail system.

Collectively, this year’s “Finishers” traversed 1,984 miles. While some participants covered the trails at a time, pace and distance of their own choosing, others took part in one or more of the five Guided Hikes offered by FRRCP over the course of the Challenge.

This year, renowned distance runner Forrest Gump accompanied groups and was honored with a Dr. Pepper and a box of chocolates at the conclusion of the final leg of his quest.

Nine lucky “Finishers” were rewarded with a Wilco Annual Parks Pass (valued at $50) generously donated by the Friends of River Ranch.

To view photos of Challenge participants exploring park trails, click here.

FIFTH ANNUAL MEETING MIXED BUSINESS & SOCIALIZING

At FRRCP’s Fifth Annual Meeting on September 30th, a gathering of Friends enjoyed food and libations under the oaks at the Liberty Hill Beer Market while hearing a recap of activities this past year (10/01/24 – 9/30/25) and conducting some essential business.

Following committee reports, River Ranch County Park Supervisor Robert Moss commended the group on their accomplishments and shared plans for future park improvements. Those assembled were honored to have as guests Williamson County Parks Department staff members Emsud Horosovic (Parks Assistant Director) and Katie Mikulak (Park Operations Director).

Highlighting the meeting were remarks by retiring Parks Director Russell Fishbeck, who had headed the Parks Department since 2019 and was instrumental in the opening of River Ranch CP. Other special speakers included representatives from the "Save Our Stars" initiative, a local organization which spearheaded the movement to have Liberty Hill officially designated as the first International Dark Sky Community in Williamson County. Speakers included Donna Leonard and Liberty Hill Mayor Crystal Mancilla.

After acknowledging the contributions of retiring Board Member Shelley Frankin, members elected the FRRCP Executive Committee for fiscal year 2025-2026: Kathy Corbett (President); Teresa Moen (Vice-President); Karen Shawhan (Secretary); Wayne Collins (Treasurer); Mike Chaffin (Member-at-Large); and John Kendall (Member-at- Large). Mary Dobbelaere (Communications Director) and Crystal Bailey (Volunteer Coordination Director) will remain on the Board, as appointed by the Executive Committee.

To view the Meeting Minutes, Annual Treasurer's Report, and more photos, click here.