Most people don’t associate winter with hiking, but in most parts of Texas, winter is actually the best time to be outdoors. These seven laid-back hikes are perfect for kicking off 2020, with just enough challenge to leave you invigorated without sacrificing any of the peace and serenity that accompanies a leisurely stroll.

1. Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail (Big Bend)

Big Bend is by far one of the most beautiful places in Texas, but some of its trails are a tad bit too strenuous for those of us who aren't avid hikers. Luckily, this half-mile path gives you the same breathtaking views without all of the effort. Plus, you get to see Dugout Wells, a sparkling oasis in the middle of the dry desert.

2. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Summit Trail (Fredericksburg)

Getting to the top of the pink blob we all know and love doesn't take as long as you might think - just about 20 minutes. But don't be fooled by the time, the hike is incredibly demanding - however, the view that awaits you when you reach the summit is more than a worthwhile reward. You might even hear the groans and see the flames that the Tonkawa Indians claimed to have experienced many years ago.

3. Gorman Falls Trail at Colorado Bend State Park (Bend)

1.5 miles is all that stands between you and one of the most amazing hidden gems in Texas. Gorman Falls is an over 80-foot tall waterfall that cascades down several rock ledges before spilling into the pool below. Coupled with all the surrounding greenery, it's safe to say this is a fair payoff for your efforts.

4. Santa Elena Canyon (Big Bend)

It's hard to even think of words to describe the sheer beauty of this monolith. It might look daunting, but the hike is actually a mere 1.7 miles round-trip. Few things compare to the feeling of standing between two 1,000-foot tall rock walls, so if you had to pick one place on this list to visit, I'd choose this one.

5. Barton Creek Greenbelt (Austin)

The constant sound of rushing water is an incentive to keep going (it's only about three miles to the first water area!), and once this scene unfolds before your eyes, the effort will be totally worth it. You can keep going if you want a longer hike, but most people choose to stop here and hang out in the rapids for a bit before turning around and heading back.

6. McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail at Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Salt Flat)

One of the shortest hikes on the list, this brief trail is a mere .9 miles round-trip. It features unique plant life and geology as well as breathtaking views of the mountains, and should take you less than an hour to complete. Sounds like a win-win situation to us!

7. Palmetto State Park (Luling)

We may not be the Palmetto State, but these trees beg to differ. The interpretive trail is what I'd recommend because it points out the most distinctive of them - and it's only 1/3 mile long. There are over 500 plant species here, which attracts a lot of wildlife including over 250 bird species! Birdwatchers, this is definitely the park for you.

How many of these hikes have you taken? Did we leave off your favorite? Let us know!