It always makes me laugh when people from other states think Texas is nothing but dusty roads with tumbleweeds and riders on horseback. Of course, there are parts of the Lone Star State that live up to the stereotype, but Texas is just so big that it’s hard to make blanket statements. That being said, one of my favorite things about our state is how much variation exists in its landscape. From deserts to beaches and prairies to wetlands, Texas has a little bit of everything. If you’re someone who loves the water as much as I do, you have to check out the North Shore Trail to Rockledge Park in Grapevine. Nestled along the shores of beautiful Lake Grapevine - one of the clearest lakes in Texas - this urban oasis showcases pristine waters, lush greenery, native wildlife, and stellar sunsets.

The trail is rather long, at nearly eight miles, but it has an elevation gain of under 400 feet, so don’t let the distance keep you away. While the lake is the main attraction, the rest of the trail doesn’t disappoint, boasting tall green grass dotted with seasonal wildflowers, dense forests, and even native wildlife such as deer.

The sections of the trail that do open up to the lake are simply breathtaking. Even from relatively far away, you can tell just how crystal-clear the water is.

As if we needed another reason to fall in love with this loop, it also features a small stream that meanders its way through moss-covered rocks and the gnarled roots of old, majestic trees. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a fairytale when you listen to the rhythmic sound of the gently babbling brook and the melodic tweets of birds chirping in the forest canopy above.

The trail is beautiful to visit year-round, but I prefer it in the fall and winter. Somehow, the lake is even more beautiful in the haunting stillness of the cooler months of the year. No matter what season you choose to come, there are several benches where you can sit and relax as you revel in the immense natural beauty that surrounds you.

Rockledge Park also offers direct access to Lake Grapevine for water recreation activities. Visit AllTrails to learn more about the North Shore Trail and the park in general.

Have you enjoyed one of the clearest lakes in Texas at Rockledge Park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments. Check out our previous article for a year-round train ride in Grapevine, Texas that’s fun for the whole family, and consider signing up for AllTrails+ if you’re interested in fun perks like offline map access (it can really come in handy!).