In my opinion, the best hikes in Texas are the ones that often get overlooked. Nothing excites me like discovering a trail I never knew existed, and the Tyler State Park Lakeshore Trail is one of them. Tucked away inside a dense forest and surrounding a pristine lake, this short hike promises to capture your heart just like it did mine.
East Texas doesn't get enough love - especially some of the state parks that lie within this lush, forested region of our great state. Tyler State Park is one of them, and the Tyler State Park Lakeshore Trail is among the most underrated hikes in Texas.
The 2-mile loop skirts around the park's very own lake, which spans 64 acres and is fed by a freshwater spring. Between birds chirping in the trees and the wind gently pushing the lake waters into the shore, you'll be in heaven with every step you take.
I'm a sucker for boardwalk trails - especially when they're surrounded by dense greenery, and this hike absolutely delivers. The setting makes you feel like you're in a fairytale!
What's even cooler is that the lake has a designated swimming area that you can access from the trail. If it's a particularly hot day, nothing feels better than taking a quick break from your hike for a dip in the water!
Something that truly cannot be overstated about this trail is the peace and quiet it offers. Yes, the park can be quite popular at times, but when you compare it with some of the more well-known state parks in Texas (and especially swimming spots like Lake Travis), the level of solitude is unmatched.
Given the trail's short length and moderate difficulty, you'll have plenty of time to stop and "smell the roses," so to speak. From the placid waters of the lake to the colorful blooms and native wildlife along the trail, you're in for a real treat.
The fact that the trail (and the park itself) is hidden within the dense forests of the Piney Woods region makes it seem even more hidden. It's definitely one of Texas's best-kept secrets!
Visit AllTrails to learn more about the Tyler State Park Lakeshore Trail. Don’t forget to sign up for AllTrails+ for extra perks like 3D maps and curated national park guides.
Head to the Texas Parks & Wildlife website for more information about the park, including current hours and entrance fees.
Have you ever hiked this lovely trail? If so, do you think it’s one of the best hikes in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Check out our previous article for a nearby rose garden that happens to be the largest in the U.S.
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