23 Hiking Trails in TEXAS (Exciting, Amazing, & Challenging)
Texas is home to all-around year exploration, which it disperses to locals and tourists in grand style.
Join the league of individuals who connect their minds to nature by exploring the sceneries and adventure attached to hiking.
From the mesmerizing lakeside trails to the rocky ones, hikers are stunned by the challenges and the body-strengthening advantages hiking trails offer.
If you intend to go hiking in Texas, this article is for you to satisfy your differing taste in hiking trails while still recommending the best.
Pack your gear, bikes, dog, refreshments, and everything you might need for the hiking because things are about to go down.
Stay on!
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Bike Trails in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Fort Worth, Texas.
1. Marion Sansom Park (Eleven Varied Trails)
Experience the mind-blowing terrain of Marion Sansom Park in Fort Worth.
Eleven hiking trails are opened and lobbed together to satisfy visitors.
The geologic force of the Cretaceous Period shaped the steep hillside and the waterfall in Marion Sansom Park.
Different hiking or biking skill levels have a trail assigned to them.
Thanks to the Fort Worth Mountain Bike Association, there are also creations of different trails to challenge individuals who want to hike while on a bike.
The Park contains part of the Trinity River Paddling Trail, a 130 miles project paddling trail, and a good spot for Kayaking lovers.
Marion Sansom Park breathes in the Post-Depression era style, and it is open for picnics, family gatherings, pets, hiking, and natural sceneries.
Address: 2501 Roberts Cut Off Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76114, United States.
2. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (20 Miles of Diverse Trails)
Step into creating memories of nature on a visit to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge.
The 20 miles of hiking trails wind through the wetland, forests, and prairies, which are habitats for bison, deer, geese, and other species of birds.
Hikers are open to terrains of varying difficulty and experience. Instead of self-guided hiking, you can demand a staff-guided hike for histories, insights, and security through the center.
The refuge also offers fishing and paddling opportunities for visitors exploring nearby lakes and waterways.
For unique hiking targets, like seeing specific animals, hikers need to get a map or directives through the trails required to meet such demand.
There are also summer camps for children in Kindergarten to 5th-grade children.
Military-active or retired personnel have discounts to their advantage on a visit to the center too.
Take your dog, friends, and family along, for this is a perfect way to explore one of the conserved natural habitats of Fort Worth.
Address: 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76135, United States
3. Eagle Mountain Park (5 Miles of Greenland Trails)
Enjoy a free hiking moment through the 5 miles of trails of pure Greenland in Eagle Mountain Park.
Kickstart your hiking by taking along your hiking gear and outfits to match the weather condition.
The terrains are smooth, but the Park doesn’t accept dogs, horses, bicycles, campfires, or public consumption of liquor.
Aside from the hiking trails, Eagle Mountain Park has two pavilions, water fountains, restrooms, benches, and picnic tables for individual and family gatherings.
In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy fishing and kayaking on Eagle Mountain Lake, picnicking, and birdwatching at the Park’s designated areas.
While the Park has six trails for exploration, there is a short quarter trail named “Overlook Trail.”
It is renowned for differently captivating views of the Park unavailable on other trails.
Address: 11601 Morris Dido Newark Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76179, United States
4. Arcadia Trail Park (Lush Creeks & Wooded Areas)
Arcadia Trail Park is a hidden gem in Fort Worth’s suburbs, open for hikers thrilled by the serene natural setting.
Experience a top-notch hiking moment through a trail that starts and ends at the same point in Arcadia Trail Park.
The trail wound through lush creeps, wood areas, and terrains filled with wildflowers and grasses, making for a picturesque and peaceful hike.
With its complimentary amenities, hikers and bikers are eligible to navigate the 6.5 miles loop in grand style.
Want to have your families around or have a get-together?
The Trail Park has playgrounds, freestyle football spaces, baseball pitches, restrooms, and picnic tables for your satisfaction.
Color-coded symbols help to guide hikers about the path’s difficulty in front, and dogs are allowed only when on a leash.
You will never know how exciting this is until you visit!
Address: 8401 Big Rock Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76126, United States
Also see our article on Swimming Pools in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Austin, Texas.
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt (Swimming Hole & Cliffs)
The sublime mixture of various distinct trails makes Barton Creek Greenbelt a target to explore for hiking satisfaction.
Start the hiking from then 1.2 miles of lush and natural pathway through Zilker Park, and follow as it continues into the deep swimming hole available towards the Campbell Hole.
You can explore the swimming hole or enjoy the scenery while hiking near its bank.
In addition to this, there is a famous limestone rock, nicknamed Urban Assault, on the Gus Fruh Trail, which visitors who look forward to rock climbing during their hiking moments.
Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls trail creates the perfect biking experience for visitors intending to enjoy its cliffs and rocky topography.
Inclines during hiking are adventurous and stunning, which is what Hill of Life & Trail’s End’s trailheads offer anyone up for the challenge.
The Barton Creek greenbelt has everything thrown at visitors with all these varieties, and you shouldn’t miss out too.
Address: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704, USA
2. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail (Sculptures Along The Trail)
The Lady Bird Lake came into existence after the Colorado River Flood Control Project in the 1950s, and it also gave birth to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
People gathered around the newly created Lake and tried walking through its muddy banks to explore the picturesque view of the Lake.
Years after, the same trail was paved, developed, and named after one of Austin’s Mayor and his wife, Ann, and Roy Butler, both environmental preservation enthusiasts.
The looped trail is one of Austin’s cultural heritage for locals and tourists.
Part of the trail’s highlights is the bat-filled walk through the Congress Avenue Bridge and the sculptures along the trail.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see thousands of sleeping bats that fill the clouds of Austin city during their hours.
The trail is worth visiting, even after countless days of hiking there.
Address: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741, United States
3. River Place Nature Trail Canyon Trailhead (Texas Hillside Representation)
The Canyon Trail, formerly part of the community’s water supply development project, represents the Texas hillside.
After its closure for its original purpose, it was developed to become a stunning trailhead for hiking with its steep pathways and challenging topography.
The inclines are fantastic, with more than 5000 log stairs integrated for support through the terrain.
There is a Lower Panther Trail, a portion of the trail named after a mountain Lion that was tracked down before the trails got divided into the Little Fern Trail option and the Water Line Trail, which are all connective to nature and wildlife.
Taking a hiking tour around the Canyon trail should remind you of the trail’s natural beauty and why environmental conservation is essential.
Address: 8820 Big View Dr, Austin, TX 78730, United States
Also see our article on Kayaking in Texas.
Hiking Trails in San Antonio, Texas.
1. Friedrich Wilderness Park (Diverse Wildlife & Difficulty Levels)
This Park trail began years after the urbanization of San Antonio chased German Immigrants who perused the land for ranching and farming in the late 1800s.
While featuring wildlife like raccoons, snakes, deer, and various species of birds, hikers are awed by the range of difficulty and unique experiences the hiking trails offer.
With up to 10 miles of trail, Friedrich Wilderness Park is interested in the security of the hikers and, thus, only offers hiking sessions when the trails are impassable or muddy to the extent that hikers will have to try out of the paved trails.
As a first-timer, you are advised to bring more water if you visit in dry weather.
Still, after that first experience, you will surely bring along resources to enjoy its picnic areas, fun atmosphere, and the trails in general.
Address: 21395 Milsa Dr, San Antonio, TX 78256, United States
2. McAllister Park Trailhead (Signposted Trails For Safety)
During the 1920s, this area was acquired by a group of businessmen who wanted to turn it into a residency community until the Great Depression took over the plan and made them sell it to San Antonio.
The McAllister Park trailhead features a pathway with an incredible atmosphere of hiking and decent topography with differing difficulty.
Hikers are aided with signage through their designated trails to notify them of the challenges in front.
Trailheads are accessible for hiking and biking, along with the map and tour guide.
The park cares about the security of hikers without compromising the entertainment it should offer.
Visitors have playscapes, picnic spots, water fountains, dog play spots, and other amenities to satisfy their thirst for fun.
If you also intend to jog through, the terrain favors your course.
Address: San Antonio, TX 78247, United States
3. Olmos Basin Trailhead (Challenging Terrain For Hikers)
Adventurers!
If you want an unforgettable outdoor experience in San Antonio, look no further than the Olmos Basin Trailhead!
It starts with the provision of wheelchair facilities that span as far as 2.8 miles of hiking trail, and it gets further enhanced to be longer, according to the trailhead’s mandate to serve everyone visiting.
The Olmos Basin has this lush greenery, and the topography could be more challenging for an average hiker.
This trailhead is well-maintained and easily accessible, with ample parking and restroom facilities.
It is also pet-friendly, making it a perfect outdoor environment for that me-time with your little buddy.
While there are directories and aid spots, visitors should have their fill and reserve of water along with them.
Some hikers find the terrain challenging, which might be the same for you.
Get all your gear and aids ready to enjoy this beauty of nature.
Address: 651 Devine Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States.
Also see our article on Ice Skating in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Houston, Texas.
1. Sam Houston Park (City’s Oldest Park Trails)
Talk of the city’s oldest park trails, talk of Sam Houston Park!
The Park is named after Sam Houston, the first president of the Republic of Texas and served as the first Governor when it became a state.
Journeys through Sam Houston Park trails don’t only intrigue you in the form of topography and mesmerizing land formation, and it intrigues you more when you learn about the history of the Park.
On your adventure, chances are, you will see the Kellum-Noble House, the oldest surviving brick structure in Houston, which dates back to 1847. Isn’t that amazing?
And unlike other trails, which close minutes before sunset, you can have a super night hiking in the Park till 11 pm.
The moments of pure adventures await you in Sam Houston Park trails.
Address: 1100 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
2. Terry Hershey Park (Dusk-Till-Dawn Hiking Trails)
Have you ever wanted unrestricted hiking and biking?
Find your way to explore the dusk-till-dawn hiking trails in Terry Hershey Park.
It is a 10 miles long paved terrain surrounded by a beautiful colorful setting.
The trail also comes across the banks of Buffalo Bayou before submerging into a wood area.
If you are a naturalist or an enthusiast of nature, there are shorter trails aside from the main Terry Hershey Park Hike & Bike Trail.
These lead to habitats of turtles, white-tailed deer, over 200 species of birds, and some swarm area creatures.
Apart from these, Terry Hershey Park has a smooth topography that runs into the Buffalo Bayou, declines and inclines on some steep terrain.
Bring your dogs, bikes, and everything you will always want to have fun with, then explore what nature offers here.
Address: 15200 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079, United States
3. Memorial Park Hike and Bike Trailhead (Varying Bike & Ski Trails)
Thirty miles of multi-use trails creep into dense forests and rocky areas.
The challenge and adventures are for those willing to put aside their fears and enjoy nature’s topography to its brim.
Memorial Park was named to honor American soldiers who died in World War I in 1924.
Hikers, runners, and cyclists can choose from the varying mountain bike trails, snowshoe trails, or cross-country ski trails.
The terrains are primarily flat and paved, making it an environment to develop hiking skills without many challenges.
There are picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and an 18-hole golf course for visitors to enjoy without paying a dime.
While it can be busy on peak days, there is always somewhere in the woods to have silent moves and breath in nature in its pure form.
Address: 7575 N Picnic Ln, Houston, TX 77007, United States
Also see our article on Tubing in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Dallas, Texas.
1. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve (Tranquil Hiking, Running & Biking)
Sometimes, all a human wants is tranquility, which Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offers.
With its challenging steep inclines, descents, wooded areas, small ponds, grasslands, and exciting wildlife, this place is perfect for hiking, running, and mountain biking.
While away from the atmosphere of noise in Dallas City, the trails submerge into excellent means of destressing one’s soul.
It has various creatures for hikers to behold, from the speedy white-tailed deer, turtle, and reptiles to the armored armadillos.
Keep an eye out for the many bird species that call this place home – they’re a sight to behold!
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an outdoor adventure in Dallas.
So, grab your hiking boots, bring some friends, and get ready to experience the thrill of nature like never before!
Address: 2875 Pierce St, Dallas, TX 75233, United States
2. Big Cedar Wilderness DORBA Trail (Electrifying Atmosphere)
Imagine trails named “Death Valley,” “Pitbull,” “Ranger,” “Barbwires,” and many other terrifying names.
You already know that the electrifying atmosphere in the trails is mind-blowing and challenging.
The Big Cedar Wilderness DORBA Trail is one of the rare wooden hill trails in Dallas.
The attention-needing terrains and stunning views combine with the multi-purpose hiking/biking trails to give visitors moments they will never forget.
While the trails have evolved over the years, the wildlife is untouched.
Your hiking could get you to see deer, rabbits, coyotes, and even the occasional bobcat.
Bring your gear and a bike, and you will talk about the experience to your absent friends all day.
It is, however, not advisable to bring kids all along.
The Big Cedar Wilderness trail has more than just hiking to give out; it is always a refreshing adventure alongside!
Address: 13701 Big Cedar Trail, Dallas, TX 75253, United States
3. Cedar Ridge Preserve (Mild Difficulty With Rocky Steps)
From being a railroad line in the 1900s to becoming a popular hiking trail in Dallas, the Cedar Ridge Preserve is the right place for hiking, birdwatching, and nature study.
The serenity the trails offer alongside the mind-blowing cliffs, meditation areas, inclines, hills, and ponds, is worth having.
Cedar Ridge Preserve has varying topography, and hikers have a mix of rocky steps and flat landscapes to go up hills while returning from the hikes.
Families, friends, and students can have a fantastic time together with the terrain’s mild difficulty without missing out on the natural Lake in the Preserve.
You should be here!
Address: 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75249, United States
Also see our article on Horseback Riding in Texas.
Hiking Trails in El Paso, Texas.
1. Franklin Mountains State Park (Ancient Indigenous Tribes’ Trails)
Discover one of God’s creation’s wonders on a Franklin Mountain State Park hike.
Thousands of years ago, the Jornada Mogollon and Apache tribes were the indigenous tribes who lived in these mountains, and they left behind various rock arts, carves, and artifacts that hikers can see.
With its over 100 miles of differing trails, hikers can choose to explore trailheads of matching difficulty with their capabilities.
On some trails, children of 4 to 9 years can also experience easy hiking moments, prompting the discussion about the Aztec Cave Trail, the most famous trail in Franklin Mountain Park.
The rugged terrains, inclines, and general topography through the rocky cliffs are soothing for all age groups, alongside the histories they carry.
Hikers can have overnight camps, tours of all trails, parties, and fire nights.
Address: Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso, TX 79930, United States
2. Chuck Heinrich Memorial Park (Sunset Views & Tranquility)
The sunset views and the tranquility as hikers move along these eventful trails are the pacesetters for what to look forward to in Chuck Heinrich Memorial Park.
A plain natural landscape extends for several miles, and the trails are of different difficulties, which are all still usable for amateur mountain bikers to practice on without higher chances of injuries.
Have a good time with your friends on a visit and explore the trails, but be careful; there are fewer directive signs installed through the trailheads.
If you love weird trails, take your bike, dog, or hiking gear, and explore the Lazy Cow or the Mad Cow trails.
You will always need more Chuck Heinrich Memorial Park; you will always want more hiking moments!
Address: Officer Andrew Barcena Dr, El Paso, TX 79934, United States
3. Lost Dog Trailhead (Shaded Trails & More Challenging)
With a blend of flat terrain and a bit of loose graphite, hikers have a memorable to themselves without much stress.
The trails are of beautiful topography and come with little difficulty without compromising on showcasing the park’s natural beauty.
It is different from the average rainforest hiking many hikers record they experience – it is born out of a desert environment and gives the vibes of an African Safari.
There is more shade on the Lost Dog trails, and you should be prepared with more aids than you need because the adventure can become more challenging.
Finally, do. Not. Touch. The. Cacti!
Besides the spines, glochids cover many types of cacti.
Tiny barbed hairs can become embedded in hundreds of your body parts, causing skin irritation.
Address: 1651 Redd Rd, El Paso, TX 79911, United States
Also see our article on Bowling in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Fredericksburg, Texas.
1. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (Rock Climbing & Cliff Trails)
One of the Native American tribes, Tonkawa, believed that the rock was enchanted, filled with spirits, and dangerous to be alone at night.
The myth has passed from generation to generation.
Now, we have the sceneries of land formations, rock patterns, and beautiful sceneries that attract hikers to convince us that it is enchanted.
Nicknamed the “Pink granite dome,” the area is home to hiking trails of stunning views and difficulties.
From rock climbing to cliffs, inclines, and distinctive terrains, hikers enjoy total cardio done to their bodies on a complete journey through any of its trails.
You should come with plenty of water and pack your next meal because while you might be concerned about engaging the magical landscapes, your body can demand more fluids than you think.
You can visit the park store too and shop there.
Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
2. Pedernales Falls State Park (New Juniper Ridge Trail Challenge)
Combine hiking, fishing, mountain biking, swimming, and fun on a visit to the Pedernacles Falls State Park.
The sceneries of the wildlife and natural environment make hiking memorable on these trails.
Various challenges can be taken on the different canyons and rocky pathways from the 5.5 miles of Twins Fall trail to the 6 miles of Wolf Mountain trail.
There is a new 10 miles on Juniper Ridge Trail where hikers might have one of their most challenging times due to its terrain.
However, the walk through the Tobacco and Wolf Mountain in Pedernales Falls is worth trying.
Camping is allowed and must be booked before the days of actual camping to avoid reservation issues.
The Pedernales Falls State Park is an excellent center to experience top-notch hiking adventures alongside your friends and family.
Address: 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636, United States
Also see our article on Fun things to do in Texas.
Hiking Trails in Georgetown, Texas.
1. Berry Springs Park and Preserve (Well-Groomed & Peaceful Trails)
The well-groomed trails combine with the peaceful nature of the park to give hikers the experience they seek.
While there are multiple trails, hikers can see beautiful donkeys, birds of different species, and flowers.
Family gatherings and camping are allowed for specific periods, and children can come for summer camps in the park.
The topography is smooth, and the trails are unpaved, but the scenic atmosphere makes visitor explore their inner connection with nature.
Get your hiking gear, take your friends or family along, and enjoy hiking in Berry Springs Park and Preserve.
Welcome yourself to a great and fun place.
Address: Rockledge Park, Mountain Bike Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States
2. Rockledge Park (Year-Round Beautiful Trailhead)
In Rockledge Park, Northshore Trailhead is another popular point in Georgetown, Texas, suitable for mountain biking and other exploratory activities.
The trailhead is open year-round and is always a beautiful place to visit anytime for recreation.
Experience the mix of sun and partial shade when camping at Murrell Park, where the trailhead is.
Down the trails, visitors can maneuver all around in comparison with other trails in other parks.
The topographies are smooth, and the trails are paved with directive signs.
Whether it is to have a good time with friends and families or to connect more with nature, Rockledge Park trails will give you both.
Address: Rockledge Park, 3600 Pilot Point, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Outdoor Activities, Botanical Gardens, and Playgrounds in Texas.
Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Hiking Trails in New York and Florida.