18 Best Hikes In Texas: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2023
Jasmine Vieau
Author
Set out on an epic hiking adventure in the Lone Star State with our list of the best hikes in Texas for 2023! From rugged mountain trails to serene waterfront paths, Texas offers a range of hiking experiences for all skill levels. Discover hidden waterfalls, towering peaks, and breathtaking vistas as you explore these top-rated trails. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, Texas has something for everyone.
Best Hikes in Texas
Discover the best hikes in Texas with these top picks. These hikes offer a range of thrilling experiences, from conquering the highest peak in Texas to exploring beautiful waterfalls and scenic landscapes. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on these unforgettable adventures in the Lone Star State.
- Location: Salt Flat
- Mileage: 8.1-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This area is highly popular for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so expect to encounter other people during your exploration. The trail is open year-round and offers beauty in every season. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail, so leave your furry friends at home. Keep in mind that Guadalupe Mountains National Park has an entrance fee.
The hike up Guadalupe Peak is definitely worth it, but be prepared for a challenging trek and plan for 6 to 8 hours to complete the round-trip hike. The views from the highest point in Texas are otherworldly, and you'll experience different ecosystems and plants along the way. Don't forget to check out the other hiking trails and recreational activities available in Guadalupe Mountains National Park while you're there.
- Location: Austin
- Mileage: 3.2-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This area is a popular spot for hiking, running, and walking, so expect to come across other people during your adventure. The trail is open year-round and offers beauty in all seasons. You can bring your dog along, but make sure they are leashed.
If you're looking for a relatively easy hiking trail near Austin, Texas, you might want to check out the Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls Via Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail. It's 3.2 miles, with some nice changes in the terrain along the way. Keep in mind that Sculpture Falls may be dry during the summer months.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 4.8-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Popular for hiking with high foot traffic. Open year-round and offers scenic beauty. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park has an entrance fee. Bring water, snacks, and arrive early for parking.
If you're searching for a great introduction to the flora and fauna of the Chisos Mountains, look no further than the Lost Mine Trail! You'll be treated to stunning views of Casa Grande, Juniper Canyon, and the greater Chisos basin just one mile into the hike. From there, the trail climbs steeply through juniper, oak, and pine forests before leveling out at the ridge with breathtaking views of Pine Canyon and the Sierra del Carmen in Mexico. This five mile round trip hike is one of the best day hikes in Big Bend, so make sure to bring water and snacks and arrive early to secure a parking spot.
Best Short & Easy Hikes in Texas
Explore the best short and easy hikes in Texas, like the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, Cedar Brake Trail via Cattail Pond Trail, and Good Water Trail to Lake Georgetown. These hikes offer a mix of scenic beauty, tranquil ponds, and picturesque lake views. Whether you’re a beginner hiker or looking for a relaxing outdoor stroll, these trails are perfect for you. So, grab your walking shoes and enjoy the beauty of Texas on these accessible and enjoyable hikes.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 4.8-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: Popular for hiking, running, and walking with high foot traffic. Best times to visit are September through May. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park has an entrance fee. Note that the trail may be closed after heavy rain or when Terlingua Creek is impassable.
Are you looking for a short and scenic hike? Head to the Santa Elena Canyon Trail. The trail crosses Terlingua Creek and offers fantastic views of the Rio Grande. You'll hike through lush vegetation and towering limestone cliffs before reaching the end of the hike at the river. Don't forget to pack a lunch and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Location: Dallas
- Mileage: 2.7-mile loop trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: Popular for hiking, running, and walking with high foot traffic. Open year-round and offers scenic beauty. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Seasonal closure possible due to weather conditions.
For an easy loop trail near Dallas - check out Cedar Brake Trail via Cattail Pond Trail. The rolling hills are well-maintained, and there's plenty of shade cover to help beat the heat during the summer months. Just make sure to get to the parking area early on weekends, as it can get crowded. This trail is perfect for leisurely hiking, running, and dog walking.
- Location: Georgetown
- Mileage: 2.3-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: Highly popular for hiking with heavy foot traffic.
We highly recommend checking out this 2.3-mile out-and-back trail near Georgetown. It's an easy route that takes around an hour to complete and leads to an incredible overlook of Lake Georgetown. Once you reach the water, the view is incredible. Just be sure to wear hiking boots or shoes since there are a lot of rocks along the way.
Hardest Hikes in Texas
Challenge yourself with the hardest hikes in Texas, including El Capitan via Guadalupe Peak, Bush Mountain Trail to Blue Ridge Loop, and Santa Elena Canyon River Kayak Route. These trails will put your stamina and skills to the test, with steep ascents, rugged terrains, and thrilling adventures. Scale the majestic El Capitan, conquer the demanding Blue Ridge Loop, and navigate the stunning Santa Elena Canyon by kayak. These hikes are not for the faint of heart, but the rewarding views and sense of accomplishment make them truly unforgettable experiences for adventurous souls.
- Location: Salt Flat
- Mileage: 10.6-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: Popular hiking area with frequent foot traffic. Trail open year-round. No dogs allowed. Guadalupe Mountains National Park entrance fee required.
There is no real trail between Guadalupe Peak and El Capitan and it is more defined as Class 3 scrambling. It is advised to have technical mountain navigational skills as there is high-scrub bushwhacking and loose rocks on the trail. This is an awesome and epic mountain adventure featuring two iconic peaks in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
- Location: Salt Flat
- Mileage: 15.2-mile loop trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: Popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Open year-round with scenic beauty. No dogs allowed. Guadalupe Mountains National Park entrance fee required.
The Bush Mountain Trail to Blue Ridge Loop in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a 15.2-mile loop trail near Salt Flat, Texas. It's a challenging route that takes around nine hours to complete, but the high desert mountain scenery is definitely worth it. You'll begin at the Pine Springs Trailhead and travel through epic mountain ridges to reach Bush Mountain. It's a multi-day adventure that's perfect for nature lovers.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 19.1-mile point-to-point trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Popular trail for paddle sports with opportunities for solitude. Open year-round. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park entrance fee required. Check with Ranger station for water levels, equipment, and regulations before using the river.
The Rock Slide is a well-known rapid in this section of the river, but it requires experienced guides due to hidden routes and hydraulics. Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park is easily accessible and popular for camping and boomerang trips. Check with a Ranger station for water levels, equipment, and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the river.
Best Waterfront Hikes in Texas
Get ready to explore the best waterfront hikes in Texas! Check out Crockett Gardens Falls, River Place Canyon Trail, and Eagle Mountain Lake Park Trail for some incredible views of the water.
- Location: Georgetown
- Mileage: 3.7-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Highly popular for hiking and walking with frequent foot traffic. Trail open year-round with scenic beauty. Dogs welcome on a leash.
Explore Crockett Gardens Falls, a beautiful 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Georgetown, Texas. It's a moderately challenging route that takes an average of an hour or so to complete. The trail can be rocky and hilly, but it's a nice and relaxing walk through the woods that ends in the incredible Crockett Gardens Falls. Don't miss out on one of the most beautiful waterfall hikes in Texas.
- Location: Austin
- Mileage: 5.4-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Highly popular for hiking, running, and walking with frequent foot traffic. Dogs welcome on a leash. Daily fee per hiker.
River Place Canyon Trail near Austin is perfect for a challenging workout close to the city. Get ready for elevation gain and lots of stairs that will elevate your heart rate. Watch your footing on the narrow and uneven sections and be mindful of other hikers. Enjoy stunning hilltop views along the way. Please note that there is a weekend entrance fee for the trail.
- Location: Newark
- Mileage: 7.5-mile loop trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and running with high foot traffic. Best times to visit are March through October. No dogs allowed.
Eagle Mountain Lake Park Trail near Newark is a great trail to push the distance. The route is well-maintained and has a map at every intersection. It's perfect for beginners, with alternate routes for the more challenging sections. And you won't want to miss the beautiful views of Eagle Lake's eastern shore and the chance to spot some local wildlife and flowers.
Best Winter Hikes in Texas
Embrace the winter season with the best winter hikes in Texas. Explore Pinnacles Trail, conquer the challenging Emory Peak via South Rim Trail and Boot Springs Trail, and trek through the scenic Laguna Meadow Trail. Though enjoyed year-round, these are also an excellent choice for winter landscapes.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 8.6-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: Popular area for hiking and running with high foot traffic. Best times to visit are September through May. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park charges an entrance fee.
Get ready for an awesome hike that takes you to the base of Emory Peak! Starting near the Chisos Basin ranger station, the trail climbs between Emory Peak and Toll Mountain. It terminates at the junction with the Emory Peak Trail on the Chisos Mountain ridgeline. From there, it turns southwest and becomes the Boot Spring Trail, leading southeast towards the South Rim. This hike offers great views, steep sections, lots of stairs, switchbacks, and rocky terrain. Be sure to bring enough water and be prepared for uphill sections. Don't forget your camera, as there are plenty of fantastic photo spots.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 15.2-mile loop trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: Popular for backpacking, camping, and hiking with high foot traffic. Trail open year-round. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park entrance fee required.
This hike offers stunning 360-degree views from the top of Emory Peak. Choose between clockwise and counterclockwise routes. The rock scramble to the summit provides panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains. The south rim trail offers an equally breathtaking viewpoint. Hiking poles are recommended for the steep final push. This is a top hike in Big Bend National Park, ideal for wildlife viewing and enjoying the exposed rocky summit.
- Location: Terlingua
- Mileage: 7.8-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Highly popular for camping, hiking, and walking with frequent foot traffic. No dogs allowed. Big Bend National Park entrance fee required. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and take necessary precautions.
Take this adventure on the Laguna Meadow Trail in Big Bend National Park. This 7.8-mile out-and-back trail near Terlingua offers a moderate challenge. You'll enjoy breathtaking desert views, but beware, there's not much shade along the way. Start your hike in the morning for some partial shade and catch the sunrise on the other side of the mountain.
Best Hikes near Austin
Check out the best hikes in Austin, like the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, where you can enjoy nature along the creek. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offers urban charm with views of Lady Bird Lake. For a peaceful escape, head to Turkey Creek Trail and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, these trails have something for everyone.
- Location: Austin
- Mileage: 14.2-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: Popular area for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing with frequent foot traffic. Trail open year-round. Dogs welcome; some areas allow off-leash.
The Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin is worth exploring for its scenic and extensive trail system. The trail is perfect for a variety of activities, but be prepared for some rocky and rugged sections. And don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you enjoy this popular trail.
- Location: Austin
- Mileage: 10.0-mile loop trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: Popular area for road biking, running, and walking with frequent foot traffic. Trail open year-round. Dogs welcome on a leash.
The paved path around Lady Bird Lake is an excellent trail in the heart of Austin. It's maintained by The Trail Conservancy, offering a scenic and enjoyable stroll. The route provides plenty of shaded spots to take a break and is well-used by walkers, joggers, and bicyclists. It's a perfect trail for gorgeous city views.
- Location: Austin
- Mileage: 2.7-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: Popular area for hiking and running with frequent foot traffic. Trail open year-round. Dogs welcome; some areas allow off-leash.
Turkey Creek Trail is a fantastic trail that takes you on a journey through singletrack paths with rocky terrain and exposed roots. You'll also find sections of shaded forest, perfect for summer hikes. The trail and signage are well-maintained, making it easy to navigate. Towards the back of the trail, you'll find branching paths, offering options to extend or shorten your route. It's a great opportunity to escape the city while still being in it! Just keep in mind that there are rocks and stream crossings, so wear shoes that can handle getting wet.
We’d love to hear about your experiences and the best hiking trails in Texas you’re excited to explore. Share your thoughts, and let us know what you think are the best places to hike in Texas – we can’t wait to hear from you! And don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to try Try AllTrails+ For Free, providing you with even more resources and features for your hiking adventures!
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More to Explore
The Best Hikes In Texas
Does Texas have good hiking trails?
The best hiking trails in Texas include:
- The Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
- Enchanted Rock Summit Trail
- Lost Maples East Trail Loop in Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Haynes Ridge and Upper North Prong Trail Loop in Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway
- Gorman Falls Trail in Colorado Bend State Park
- Chihuahuan Desert Outside Loop
- Texas Hill Country Overland Route
- Wildflower to Willow Oak Trail
- Garner State Park Nature Trail
- Kirby Nature Trail in Big Thicket National Preserve
- Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Outer Loop Trail
- Old Baldy, Foshee, Bridges, and Crystal Cave Trails Loop
What are the best months to hike in Texas?
April and September are ideal months to enjoy outdoor activities in Texas, with fewer crowds and slightly cooler temperatures than the summer months. If you're looking to avoid the peak tourist season, planning your hike outside of May to August is generally a safer bet. Whether you want to explore miles of trails of Texas hiking or view stunning rock formations and scenic overlooks, Texas has something to offer year-round.