I love taking easy hikes in Texas - especially when they lead somewhere as magnificent as the Longhorn Cavern Nature Trail at Longhorn Cavern State Park. This 1-mile loop is perfect for all ages, showcasing beautiful wildflowers, historic CCC buildings, and more. The best part is that the trail leads right to the cave entrance!

Located in beautiful Burnet, Texas, Longhorn Cavern State Park offers incredible adventures not just below ground, but on the surface as well.

The Longhorn Cavern Nature Trail is only a mile long and showcases lush greenery, eye-popping wildflowers, and - of course - views of the mouth of the cave. Although touring the cave itself is not free, it costs nothing to enter the park and enjoy the trail. It’s a flat, easy loop that’s perfect for hikers of all ages and skill levels.

The trail is very well marked and even features signs that detail the history and formation of Longhorn Cavern. Let me just say that standing near the cave entrance and reading about how such an awe-inspiring natural wonder came to be is a truly remarkable experience.

You can also travel along a dry creek bed and see historic buildings constructed by the CCC nearly 100 years ago.

One of the buildings is an observation tower that provides sweeping Hill Country views!

My favorite thing about this trail is that its short length allows for a leisurely, unhurried pace (which comes in handy since there’s so much to look at any so many signs to read!).

Of course, I’d be remiss not to mention the cavern itself. Tours last about 90 minutes (yet another reason to appreciate the short hike!), and it’s an underground adventure the whole family will love.

Visit AllTrails for more information about the Longhorn Cavern Nature Trail. If you aren’t already signed up for AllTrails+, I highly recommend it. There are so many cool features that nature lovers rave about! Head over to the Texas Parks & Wildlife website to learn more about the park overall.

Have you ever taken this short and sweet hike? If so, do you think it’s one of the best easy hikes in Texas? Tell us in the comments! Check out our previous article for another nearby state park with over 200 campsites (many of which are waterfront!).