My Getaway: A Conversation With Emily Mullan

Originally from the Chicago area, Emily moved to Seattle after high school, then to Texas after college. She’s an artist, who majored in visual communications, and enjoys making candles. Her job is doing visual inventories for personal relocations all over the world. She also participates in the Art Squared market. Emily is very proud of her home along the Blanco River (with her two cats and a leopard gecko) and intends to stay in San Marcos indefinitely. Even with all her travels, this place is her favorite.

Why do you value the natural areas?

I value natural areas because as the city expands, it’s important to keep green spaces for recreation and wildlife. I’m always looking for something interesting to do. Hiking and photography help to keep my body and mental state healthy. It’s also important to preserve our resources, especially water recharge zones.

Who or what most influenced your view of the natural world? 

My parents have always been outdoors sort of people. I grew up hiking, camping, swimming, biking, boating, and cross-country skiing. They had a pop-up camper and fishing boat. I also attended Girl Scout camp in upper Wisconsin at the invitation of a friend. It was always the highlight of the summer.

What attracted you to the Greenbelt Alliance?

I moved from Austin to San Marcos in 2015 and had seen the plans regarding the loop and check, connecting the trails of the city. The check includes the green space in front of my house along the Blanco River. I hope that eventually there is a bike trail that connects it to the San Marcos River trail. I agree with the goal of connecting the city, especially the east and west sides. It’s an investment in the future, and I considered joining the Alliance as part of my moving budget.

What do you most enjoy doing in support of SMGA?

I enjoying telling people about the wonderful trails, volunteering at events, and sharing my photography on social media. A lot of people don’t explore what is literally in their own backyards, and we have a lot to offer here. With social media, we have an opportunity to bring positivity, and nature is one of the most positive things in my life that I like to share with other people.

What is your favorite trail? What do you like about it?

As much as I like Purgatory, I’d have to say Spring Lake Preserve, only because it was my sanctuary during most of Covid shutdown times. I spent a lot of time then at a house on the hill on the edge of the preserve, helping to take care of an older gentleman with dementia. I really like how it connects to Aquarena, the views, water features, creek beds, and Spanish moss.

What do you most enjoy doing when you visit the Greenbelt? 

I love finding and exploring new things. A new trail is like gold to me. I like looking into karst features, tree stumps, and checking out creek beds for fossil features. And taking photos of all of it. I also enjoy kayaking and swimming the river in the summer.

What recommendations would you give new users of the trail?

Bring enough water and be prepared for the elements. Have a map. Research the Alliance website and utilize google maps also. Expect the unexpected and have FUN!