These fantastic day hikes in Texas are perfect for any day of the week.
When it comes to the Texas landscape, there is no shortage of hiking trails fit for a day out in nature. It’s time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails on one of these 10 amazing day hikes in Texas. Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen, and always hike with a companion.
It’s the perfect time to consider purchasing a Texas State Park pass if you plan to hike several state parks in one year—it’s an excellent investment, and there are benefits to having a pass. I appreciate the fact that purchases from the gift shop are at a discount.
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!
Additionally, if you’re bringing your dog along, it must always be on a leash that is 6 feet or shorter. When your dog is not hiking with you, they should stay in your car or a crate. But on hot days, that won’t work, so plan accordingly.
Most Texas state parks charge $6-$8 to enter, with children under 12 admitted free.
1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
West Texas (Amarillo)
It’s the Grand Canyon of Texas! Palo Duro Canyon State Park spans over 18,000 acres and features 30 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. The park offers an array of 2- to 4-mile hiking trails that overlook the canyons and are suitable for families.
We recommend the Lighthouse Trail and the Rock Garden Trail for families.
The park is located in the Panhandle and is within a quick driving distance from Amarillo. If you camp overnight, you’ll see breathtaking sunset and sunrise views. Glamping (luxury camping) is also available.
Admission Cost: $8; reservations are recommended
2. Eagle Mountain Lake
North Texas (Near Fort Worth)
Eagle Mountain Lake boasts one of the most picturesque lakes in North Texas and is a hiking gem located just outside downtown Fort Worth. The park offers six trails to choose from, each with its own map. 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.
We recommend the Crosstimber Trail, Trinity Trail Loop, and the Trinity River Trail at Oakmont Park for families.
This is one of the North Texas hiking trails to put on your hiking list.
3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Texas Hill Country (in 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 features over 10 miles of trails, and the loop around the dome is ideal for those who prefer not to climb. You can hike, backpack, rock climb, picnic, birdwatch, and geocache at Enchanted Rock. A visit to Fredericksburg afterward might be fun.
4. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend County
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 Bend 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.
We recommend the Window View Trail, the Basin Loop Trail, and the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail for families.
5. Caprock Canyon State Park & Trail
West Texas Panhandle
“Where the Bison Roam.” One of the Panhandle’s rugged but beautiful parks. The park features over 90 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 15 miles in length. 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, 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.
We recommend the North Prong Spur to North Prong Camping Area Trail, the Canyon Loop Trail, and the Caprock Canyon Rim Trail for families.
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, and if you’re lucky, you might spot one of the creatures! Mineola has one of the most adorable downtown areas in Texas, if you’re up for it.
We recommend the Johnnie Bendy Trail to Beaver Pond or the Rail Bed Trail to Buckskin Loop – both are easy trails and great for families.
7. Suter Wildlife Refuge
Corpus Christi
This one-mile nature trail takes you through grassy marshes, woodlands, and mudflats, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Be sure to bring binoculars to get an up-close view of all the birds. Great for families.
8. Big Thicket National Preserve
East Texas
The Big Thicket in Kountze, Texas, features over 40 miles of trails. You can select your hiking trails by length or what you want to see during the hike. The park features a diverse array of trees, plants, wildflowers, and birds. There may be a few closures in the area, so plan ahead before visiting – 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 hidden geocaches 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.
Admission Cost: $6
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. Dinosaur Valley State Park.
Admission Cost: $8
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