These fantastic day hikes in Texas are perfect for any day of the week.
When it comes to Texas, there is no shortage of hiking trails. Lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails on one of these 10 amazing day hikes in Texas. Don’t forget water and sunscreen.
It’s the perfect time to consider purchasing a Texas State Park pass if you plan to hike several state parks—it’s an excellent investment.
10 Amazing Day Hikes In Texas
Need some fresh air and wide-open spaces? If so, head to one of these fun hiking destinations this weekend!
Also, if you’re bringing your dog along, it must always be on a 6ft or shorter leash. When your dog is not hiking with you, they are supposed to stay in your car or a crate. But on hot days, that won’t work, so plan accordingly.
Most Texas State Parks are $6-$8 to enter, with children under 12 being free.
1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
West Texas (Amarillo)
It’s the Grand Canyon of Texas! Palo Duro Canyon State Park has over 18,000 acres and 30 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to complex. The park offers an array of 2-4 mile hiking trails that overlook the canyons and are family-friendly. It is located in the Panhandle, driving distance from Amarillo. If you camp overnight, you’ll see breathtaking sunset and sunrise views.
Admission Cost: $8
2. Eagle Mountain Lake
North Texas (Near Fort Worth)
Eagle Mountain Lake boasts one of the prettiest lakes in north Texas and is a hiking gem just outside downtown Fort Worth. The park has six trails to choose from, with maps throughout. The trails are wide, well-maintained, and great for all hiking levels. If swimming is on the agenda, try the Shady Grove Park area for a day in the sun.
This is one of the North Texas hiking trails to put on your hiking list.
3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Texas Hill Country (Near Fredericksburg)
Climb the top of the pink granite dome for sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country. To reach the top of the dome, you must climb 425 ft, but it’s well worth it. The park has over 10 miles of trails, and the loop around the dome is great if you aren’t up for climbing up. A visit to Fredericksburg afterward might be fun. You can hike, backpack, rock climb, picnic, birdwatch, and geocache at Enchanted Rock – check it out.
4. Big Bend National Park
A hiker’s true gem here in far West Texas – so get your hiking boots all worn in before you go. There is no shortage of trails at Big Ben National Park, and with over 150 miles of trails and 800,000 acres to explore, you’ll make a full day of it and some. Before going, check the website to see what you should bring along.
5. Caprock Canyon State Park & Trail
West Texas Panhandle
“Where the Bison Roam.” One of the Panhandle’s rugged but beautiful parks. The park has over 90 miles of trails that range from 1 to 15 miles. The park has free-roaming bison and is the summer home to half a million bats! If you’re looking for a full day’s hike, be sure to explore the Trailway. It passes through the Clarity Tunnel, one of Texas’s last active railroad tunnels. If you have a horse, you may want to bring him along. Many trails out here allow horses.
Admission Cost: $5
6. Mineola Nature Preserve
East Texas
Located overlooking the Sabine River, this is an East Texas gem. Take the alligator loop trail; if you’re lucky enough, you might spot one of the creatures! Mineola has the most adorable downtown area in Texas if you’re up for it.
7. Suter Wildlife Refuge
Corpus Christi
This one-mile nature trail takes you through grassy marshes, woodlands, and mudflats, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Be sure to bring binoculars to get an up-close view of all the birds.
8. Big Thicket National Preserve
East Texas
Big Thicket in Kountze, Texas, has over 40 miles of trails. You can select your hiking trails by length or what you want to see during the hike. The park offers many trees, plants, wildflowers, and birds. There are a few closures here, so plan before you go – Big Thicket National Preserve.
9. Tyler State Park
East Texas
Another excellent East Texas hiking trail in the Piney Woods of Texas. You will enjoy shaded trails, towering trees, and plenty of wildlife. If exploring nature isn’t enough for the little ones, have them find the geocaching that’s hidden around the park. Other outdoor activities at Tyler State Park include boating, fishing, swimming in the lake, and mountain biking. Bring a picnic to enjoy after a long day of hiking.
10. Dinosaur Valley State Park
North Texas (Near Fort Worth)
Hike along the Paluxy River (Glen Rose, TX) for dinosaur footprints! Be sure to pick up a map with all the dinosaur tracks at the entrance. After hiking, cool off in the Blue Hole swimming area. It is one of the best day hikes in North Texas and my favorite state park to take my kid.
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