Here in Texas, you don’t have to be an advanced hiker to go on a real adventure. All throughout the state, even in parks known for their strenuous, all-day treks, you’ll find gorgeous trails that don’t take more than a couple of hours to complete, and they’re just as stunning as all the longer hikes in the Lone Star State. Listed below are 11 amazing trails that are less than three miles long. They're also some of the best hikes in Texas.

1. Rimrock Trail at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge - Marble Falls

Incredible panoramic views of the Hill Country await you at the summit of this vigorous, yet rewarding, 2.2-mile hike. It's definitely the most strenuous hike in the park, but the promise of lush greenery as far as the eye can see makes it all worth it.

2. Santa Elena Canyon Trail - Big Bend National Park

Clocking in at a mere 1.7 miles round trip, this trail begins where the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive ends. You'll climb a set of paved steps to a breathtaking vista before returning down to the water's edge and continuing into the canyon. Standing at the base of these towering rock walls is a truly humbling experience.

3. The Lighthouse Trail at Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Canyon

The park's most popular trail is 2.72 miles long and moderately intense. It leads to the iconic rock formation nicknamed "Lighthouse" for its uncanny resemblance to its namesake. If you visit during the summer, make sure to bring lots of water and snacks. Even though it's a short hike, the intense heat can really take a toll on your body.

4. 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. Because it's short, it should take less than an hour to complete. It's a win-win situation to us!

5. Gorman Falls Trail at Colorado Bend State Park - Bend

A distance of 1.5 miles is all that stands between you and one of the most amazing hidden gems in Texas. Gorman Falls is a waterfall that's more than 80 feet tall. It 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.

6. Summit Trail at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - Fredericksburg

This .67-mile hike takes you straight to the top of the iconic pink monolith, providing absolutely jaw-dropping Hill Country views. There are even little pools filled with tiny fairy shrimp to marvel at while you're up there. Just be sure to not disturb them.

7. Aztec Cave Trail at Franklin Mountains State Park - El Paso

At 1.2 miles out and back, the Aztec Cave Trail is the perfect way to experience all that Franklin Mountains State Park has to offer without spending an entire day sweating to death. It gets a little steep near the top, but the amazing views and pieces of history you'll see along the way make the short stretch of difficulty absolutely worth it.

8. Twin Falls Nature Trail at Pedernales Falls State Park - Johnson City

Be sure to set aside 30 minutes of your time here at Pedernales Falls State Park to hike this .5-mile, rugged and moderately intense trail that leads you to one of the most beautiful spots in the park. It's short and sweet, and you definitely won't regret it!

9. Kirby Nature Trail at Big Thicket National Preserve - Kountze

This trail in one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country has three options ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 miles. You'll pass through several different communities of plant life before intersecting with two other trails that you can embark on if you wish to extend your hike.

10. East Trail at Lost Maples State Natural Area - Vanderpool

At exactly three miles long, this challenging trek leads through bigtooth maples, bald cypress, and sycamore trees. We suggest taking this hike during the fall season because you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the foliage when you reach the top of the rocky slopes.

11. Old Baldy Trail at Garner State Park - Concan

Although only .5 miles long, this trail is rather steep and challenging because it takes you up rocky hillsides for an incredible bird's-eye view of the Frio River and surrounding greenery. The most difficult journeys tend to be the most rewarding, and the Old Baldy Trail is definitely no exception.

Have you been on any of these hikes? Are there any other short and sweet trails in Texas that are worth exploring? What are your picks for the best hikes in Texas? Let us know in the comments below!

For more of the best hikes in Texas, be sure to take a look at our previous article: 11 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Texas.