Dallas isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think about hiking or trailing. But let me tell you something, Dallas offers stunning treks for all interests, from short easy trails to days-long hikes. Here in this article, we have included the best trails and places to hike in Dallas that you must consider while planning your next hike.
From beginners to advance, we have kept everyone in our mind while making this post. Whether you are looking for a hike, short trail, biking, or enjoying outdoor nature with your friends and family, Dallas should be always on your list. So without further ado, let’s start.
List Of Places To Hike In Dallas :
1. Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve
Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve is undoubtedly one of the finest places to hike in Dallas and traveling with your mates. The long-standing hiking area is located near Joe Pool lake and is managed by Audubon Dallas. The high Cedar Ridge offers several locations with breathtaking views. There are spots to wade and explore along the sporadic waterways.
The White Rock Escarpment’s summit is where the preserve is located. Shin oaks, junipers, and red cedars line the slopes. You will also come across some beautiful streams near the preserve. Colorful birds like painted buntings will surely enlighten your mood, please your ear and accompany you in your trailing.
If you plan your route beforehand, you can visit the butterfly garden, relax by a pond, and climb hills all on the same day. Plan accordingly by keeping in mind that it is closed on Mondays and it will no longer remain open after sunsets.
● Address: 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75249, USA
2. Trinity River Audubon Center
The Great Trinity Forest, which is known as America’s biggest urban hardwood forest, is home to the 6,000-acre Trinity River Audubon Center. Aside from trailing and hiking, it provides excellent spot for bird watching as well. Note that the entry fee is free on the third Thursday of every month. For the rest of the days, there is a minimal entry fee that you will need to pay.
The park’s 4-mile hiking track winds through wide open areas, making it a fantastic place for hikers to spend a few hours alone in the wilderness. The majority of the routes are paved, and with little effort, wheelchair users may access the boardwalks. Hikers may take in unobstructed views of the Trinity River, colorful birds, and wetlands.
The spectacular hiking spot is open from Wednesday- Friday 9 am- 3 pm and Saturday, and Sunday 8 am- 3 pm. The weather forecast is important to check before planning your trip because there is no refund policy.
● Address: 6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217, USA
3. Dogwood Canyon
Dogwood has been among the famous places to hike in Dallas for trailers and hikers for years. It will take you nearly 25 minutes of driving from Downtown, Dallas to reach Dogwood Canyon. Some of Dallas’ greatest elevation points are located in this region, which offers nearly two miles of hiking paths.
The name Dogwood Canyon was inspired by the dogwood trees that grow in abundance in this area, making it a fantastic place to visit in early Spring. Besides trailing opportunities, the area offers breathtaking views of natural sceneries, which you will definitely want to capture on your smartphones and cameras.
Dogwood Canyon remains open from Wednesday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm and the last trail entry is 3 pm. Note that dogs and any other sort of pets are not allowed inside the trailing area (however, trained service dogs are allowed).
● Address: 1206 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, USA
4. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is one of the perfect places to hike in dallas with its 3 miles of natural hiking way and 3 miles of paved trail. There are also well-built bike tracks that allow riders to explore the wildlife reserve. Spring is the best time to visit here because of the colourful various flowers which will add more to the place’s charm.
The park with an almost 200-acre area features a bottomland forest with gigantic trees like elms and oaks and provides a spectacular view of the surroundings. Parking areas, covered pavilions, playgrounds, and restrooms are also there to make your experience comfortable.
It remains open from Sunday through Tuesday 5 am to 11 pm, Wednesday 2 pm to 11 pm, and Thursday to Saturday 5 am to 11 pm. Make sure you deposit pet wastes in trash cans, properly dispose of litter, stay on trails that are designated for use, and don’t disturb any plants as they are against their rules.
● Address: 6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093, USA
5. Spring Creek Forest Preserve
Situated at the heart of Richardson, Spring Creek Forest Preserve is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to hike in dallas. Over 600 different types of flora and animals may be found in the Spring Creek Forest, including 300-year-old trees. You may often come across some herons, egrets, and hummingbirds.
The track is fantastic for hikers of all abilities. Bike riders and pedestrians of all fitness levels will enjoy the 2.3-mile circle track. There are some paved sections and some dirt walkways in this forest preserve. Feel free to take your pups here, as it is completely pet-friendly.
The authority keeps arranging online webinars and talks routinely, and you too can participate in that meetings. The zoom id and passcode are available on their website. Take advantage of the park’s pavilions and picnic tables for lunch.
● Address: 1770 Holford Rd, Garland, TX 75044
6. Boulder Park Trail
Boasting a creek, forest, river, and rich wildlife, Boulder Park Trail is one of the best trail and places to hike in dallas featuring a 4.1-mile trail route. However, use caution when crossing the creek because it could be slippery. Boulder Park has two different loops both for experienced trailers and inexperienced trailers. The red loop is challenging, perfect for experienced trailers, and the blue loop is comparatively easier, perfect for new trailers.
The area is rich in wildlife, so you may come across various animals and birds here. Be careful while trailing because you may also encounter some snakes, an experience you never want. Bikers are also welcome here. The greatest time of year to go there is from March to October when it gives the best experiences.
● Address: 6600 Pastor Bailey Dr, Dallas, TX 75237, United States
7. Oak Cliff Natural Preserve
This Natural Preserve offers the best natural scenery in Dallas. It is a well-maintained natural preserve boasting rich wildlife, forests, prairies, river valleys, and more. Along this thickly forested road, hiking, running, and mountain biking are all fantastic possibilities.
Spring is the ideal season to go since the flowers are in full bloom. If possible, keep a map with you, as the route may seem a little confusing sometimes. There are different loops, named after different colors like the white loop, yellow loop, and purple loop. Remember that purple is the shortest and easiest trail in Oak Cliff Natural Preserve.
Note that any sort of fishing, horse riding, disturbing natural objects, camping, or cooking is strictly prohibited here. However, birdwatching, mountain biking, environmental research(with permission), and photography are allowed. You can take your pets here but they must be on a leash.
● Address: 2875 Pierce Street, Dallas, TX 75233
8. North Shore Trail
If you are looking for really long trekking, North Shore Trail can be the perfect spot for you. With a length of 22.5 miles, it is one of the longest trekking places to hike in Dallas. Mountain bikers love it for its challenging terrain and dramatic elevation variations.
Although it’s a reasonably challenging walk, the stunning lake vistas and chilly gusts off the water are well worth the effort. Spring is the best season for visiting as it is when nature remains at its best. Although the path is safe for both cyclists and walkers, you should exercise caution because there are some unpaved areas.
The trail is open year-round but make sure you check the weather forecast before planning the trip. It also has several parking spots. Camping, ground fires, and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited inside the area. Dogs are welcome but they must be kept under a leash.
● Address: Northshore Trail, Flower Mound, TX, USA
9. Texas Buckeye Trail
Though small, Texas Buckeye Trail is one of the most famous and visited trekkings in Dallas. It is a 2.1-mile circular hiking site that is ideal for novices. The “Buckeye” trees that line the Trinity River gave rise to the name of the Texas Buckeye Trail.
This is a fantastic hike for bird watching and viewing the local fauna. The unexpected twists and turns of the trekking ways will surely give you a thrilling experience. Along with an impressive canopy of old trees and adequate signage to guide hikers to the river, this trail has large boulders for sitting purposes.
It is best to avoid visiting on rainy days because the trekking paths become muddy. Get your hiking gear ready, call your friends, and come to Texas Buckeye Trail to experience nature like never before.
Conclusion – Places To Hike In Dallas
Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned pro looking for adventure, the Dallas area offers rewarding treks for all interests and abilities. From scenic city parks to sprawling nature preserves, the unique and varied places to hike in Dallas highlighted here provide a glimpse of the captivating Texas landscapes that await just outside the metroplex. Getting back to nature has never been more satisfying.