Texas is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to spend some more time on the trails. Whether travelers live in Texas and want to get outside more frequently or they’re visiting the state specifically to experience the wonderful National and State Parks, there are lots of trails to explore. These hikes don’t get enough attention and are often overshadowed by more famous National Parks in Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and California. However, they offer scenic views and an excellent workout. Add these 10 trails to your outdoor adventure list in Texas.
10 Santa Elena Canyon Trail, Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is located in Far West Texas, close to the border with Mexico. Many travelers start the journey to Big Bend from Odessa or El Paso, Texas, and make their way to the park via the artsy town of Marfa. The Santa Elena Canyon Trail offers epic views for minimal effort, given the short duration and small amount of elevation gain.
- Length: 2.7 km
- Elevation Gain: 65 meters
- Difficulty Level: Easy
9 The Lighthouse Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The Lighthouse Trail in Palo Curo Canyon State Park is considered a moderately challenging route. It’s an out-and-back trail that takes just over 2 hours to complete. Hikers can bring their dogs on this scenic route as long as they are on a leash.
- Length: 9.3 km
- Elevation Gain: 159 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
8 Lost Maples East Trail Loop, Lost Maples State Natural Area
The Lost Maples East Trail Loop is located near Vanderpool and is a circuit that takes just under two hours to complete. The trail is open year-round, and hikers can bring their dogs if they are on a leash. It’s also a popular trail for cycling.
- Length: 7.1 km
- Elevation Gain: 171 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
7 Gorman Falls Trail, Colorado Bend State Park
Located near Bend, Texas, Colorado Bend State Park is home to many scenic trails, and the Gorman Falls Trail is one you can’t miss while visiting. It’s an out-and-back route that typically takes a little over 1 hour to complete. The first part of the trail is fairly flat but becomes rocky the closer hikers get to the falls. Wearing sturdy footwear is key.
- Length: 4.5 km
- Elevation Gain: 101 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
6 Guadalupe Peak Trail, Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Hikers looking for a challenge in Texas will find it on the Guadalupe Peak Trail. Located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the trail is an out-and-back route that takes roughly 5.5 hours to complete. Depending on the time of year, there can be snow and ice in the top half of the trail, making it very slippery. It’s a good idea to bring trekking poles and wear proper hiking boots for safety. Standing at 2,667 meters, Guadalupe Peak is the highest in Texas, making completing this trail quite a feat.
- Length: 13.5 km
- Elevation Gain: 900 meters
- Difficulty Level: Hard
5 South Rim Trail, Big Bend National Park
The South Rim Trail in Big Bend National Park is a loop that typically takes around 6.5 hours to complete. The distance and elevation gain make this a challenging hike, but the views are worth it. To protect their knees, hikers should consider doing the loop so that they go up Pinnacles and down Laguna Meadows. This makes the descent less steep.
- Length: 20.1 km
- Elevation Gain: 810 meters
- Difficulty Level: Hard
4 The Lone Star Hiking Trail To Double Lake, Sam Houston National Forest
The Lone Star Hiking Trail to Double Lake is an easy route that takes just over an hour to complete. It’s a loop with minimal elevation gain making it perfect for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the scenery in the Sam Houston National Forest. Families with kids who want to get outdoors in Texas will love this trail.
- Length: 5.6 km
- Elevation Gain: 23 meters
- Difficulty Level: Easy
3 Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin
Although the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail is a long one, the minimal elevation gain makes it a moderately challenging route that advanced beginner hikers can manage. It takes around 4.5 hours to complete the out-and-back trail that follows the creek. Located near Austin, Texas, this is a peaceful place for a morning hike with a dog.
- Length: 22.2 km
- Elevation Gain: 185 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
2 The Window Trail, Big Bend National Park
The Window Trail in Big Bend National Park, far West Texas, is an out-and-back trail that takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. The trail is incredibly scenic and is easier going in than coming back. Many hikers recommend bringing trekking poles for knee support on the descent.
- Length: 8.4 km
- Elevation Gain: 289 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
1 Cedar Brake Trail Via Cattail Pond Trail, Cedar Ridge Preserve
Hikers looking for an easy yet rewarding hike can complete the Cedar Brake Trail via Cattail Pond Trail in just over 1 hour. The trail is near Dallas, Texas, making it a perfect day hike for visitors seeking a glimpse of nature in the area. There are some steps, and the trail is well-marked and well-maintained.
- Length: 4.3 km
- Elevation Gain: 81 meters
- Difficulty Level: Easy