Posted in Texas
May 25, 2016
These 11 Trails In Texas Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places
It’s no secret that Texas has some of the most beautiful nature in the country – possibly even in the world. We’re lucky enough to have access to all different kinds of terrain so we can admire all that Mother Nature has to offer without leaving our state. We did a similar article last year, which you can find here, but we decided to revisit the topic this season since hiking is a popular summer activity. Here are 11 beautiful hiking trails in Texas that you should definitely check out this summer.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
This trail offers all of the view without any of the vigor of some of the other trails at Big Bend. At only 4.8 miles round trip, it's just long enough for you to work up a sweat and feel accomplished without being totally exhausted when you're done - this way, you can give your undivided attention to the beautiful canyons, peaks and valleys in front of you.
This trail is absolutely breathtaking. It's only 2.2 miles, but rather strenuous because it takes you up the refuge's steep hills. Once you reach the top and look out on the scene before you, though, it will all be worth it.
The Big Thicket is one of the most ecologically diverse places in the entire country, and this trail in particular winds through multiple ecosystems to give you a glimpse of all kinds of life that dwells in the forest. The outer loop is 2.4 miles, and you definitely won't regret them.
This is definitely my favorite trail at this park. It's about 6 miles and fairly strenuous, but once you reach the summit and see the beautiful, lush greenery of the Texas hill country extending before you as far as the eye can see, it'll all be worth it. You can literally hear a pin drop at the top of the mountain. It's basically the definition of relaxation and tranquility.
If you ever visit Enchanted Rock (which I highly recommend doing), this is the trail you want to take. It offers the most direct access to the rock itself and doesn't require a bunch of aimless wandering around the rest of the park (although it's all beautiful - but we all know what the star of the show is here.)
This particular trail features a scenic overlook in which hikers can get an aerial view of the park. It's also a hotspot for ravens, hawks, and vultures! As if the beautiful maple trees aren't reason enough to visit the park, you just might catch a glimpse of a majestic bird flying around.
This trail is rather long, but the beauty of that is getting to choose how much of it you want to hike and where you want to enter and exit. I've heard it's a slight challenge, but nothing too strenuous, making it the perfect hike for the entire family.
This is by far the most popular trail at the park considering the "Lighthouse" is the sole symbol of the Palo Duro Canyon. It's a little over 5 miles round trip and moderate difficulty - but don't let that fool you. Several deaths to animals and people have occurred on this trail due to dehydration, so come armed with plenty of water.
Not only does this trail run adjacent to the stunning Rio Grande, but it's also one of the oldest caves in the country and features a number of intricate, ancient Native American paintings on the rocks. Overall, it's an experience you don't want to miss out on this season.
This trail just might be the most scenic on this list. It's a very short hike (less than a mile) before one of the most beautiful sights you'll ever lay eyes on unfolds before you. Gorman Falls is a 65-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery that looks like a scene from Tarzan.
Have you ever visited any of these trails? What other hiking spots in Texas are must-visits?
