18 Best Places for Hiking in Texas: From Hill Country to North & East [2024 Updated]

Texas is the second-largest state in the United States, and it's no surprise that it is home to many national parks, nationally protected areas, state parks, and recreation sites. There's no better way to explore these outdoors than hiking in Texas. Spring and fall are the best seasons to enjoy trekking in Texas because they offer milder temperatures and help you avoid the extreme heat of summer.

However, hiking is possible year-round in Texas because of the many trails available. While some trails are a short drive from a downtown metropolitan area, others cut through the mountains and remote canyons. Whether you are looking for an all-day trek or a quick escape close to town, this guide will have something for every type of hiker.

5+ Best Hiking Places in Texas

Texas hiking trails range from the rugged canyons of Palo Duro to the lush green forests of the Piney Woods. Each offers a unique blend of natural charms, challenges, and charm that make hiking in Texas extraordinary.

The Lone Star State has one of the country's diverse ecosystems, which allows you to take trails that meander through forests or wetlands. We have gathered a list of all-time hiking trails in Texas that offer something special for visitors.

Lighthouse Trail, Canyon, Texas

Place Name: Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Address: Lighthouse Trail, Texas 79015, USA

Length: 5.9 miles

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best For: Hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking

The Lighthouse Trail is located in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas Panhandle, about 30 miles outside of Amarillo. It is the second largest canyon system in the US, spanning 120 miles in length and 20 miles in width, reaching depths of up to 800 feet. The 5.8-mile round-trip hike is undoubtedly a great way to experience the vibrant hues of four geological layers.

Onion Creek Trail, Austin, Texas

Place Name: McKinney Falls State Park

Address: 7001 Onion Creek Dr, Austin, TX 78744, United States

Length: 3 miles

Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Best For: Birding, hiking, and mountain biking

Located inside Austin's city limits, the Onion Creek Trail is a paved 3-mile loop through McKinney Falls State Park. It provides a scenic jaunt through this beautiful forest and is perfect for all manner of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, cruisers, road bikes, and, of course, hiking.

Armadillo Hill Trail

Place Name: Eisenhower State Park

Address: Eisenhower Rd, Denison, TX 75020, United States

Length: 8 mile in length if hiked end to end or 1.6 miles roundtrip

Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Best For: Hiking and mountain biking

The Armadillo Hill Trail is located in the Eisenhower State Park on the shores of Lake Texoma, Denison. You will find the rocky lakeshore, picturesque covers, and rugged bluffs around the hiking trail. If you're planning to go bird watching, this hiking trail is ideal for observing pelicans, loons, bald eagles, and various waterfowls.

El Paso Tin Mines Trail

Place Name: Franklin Mountains State Park

Address: North Franklin Mountain Trail, El Paso, TX 79934, United States

Length: 6.6 miles

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best For: Hiking, biking, and trekking

The El Paso Tin Mines Trail is a 6.6 mile out-and-back trail near El Paso with a moderately challenging route. It's a very popular area for backpacking, hiking, trekking, and mountain biking. The trail is open year-round and is considered a beautiful place to visit anytime.

Ratcliff Lake Trail

Place Name: Davy Crockett National Forest

Address: 18551 State Highway 7 East, Kennard, TX 75487

Length: 2.8 miles

Difficulty Level: Easy 

Best For: Picnicking, camping, birding, and hiking

The Ratcliff Lake Trail is a hiking trail in the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area in Davy Crockett National Forest, Texas. The hiking trail is mostly flat and shaded by trees, making the area ideal for a peaceful evening. It's one of the best camping places in Texas with a recreation area that has a campground, picnic areas, a swim area, and a playground for an ideal family hiking and camping trip.

Santa Elena Canyon Trail

Place Name: Big Bend National Park

Address: Santa Elena Canyon Trail, Texas 79852, USA

Length: 1.7 miles

Difficulty Level: Easy 

Best For: Hiking, running, and walking

The Santa Elena Canyon Trail in Big Bend National Park, Texas, is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking. It is surrounded by 1,500-foot limestone cliffs, the Rio Grande, and lush riparian vegetation. It's a peaceful way to spend some time near nature.

Hiking Trails in the Texas Hill Country 

The Texas Hill Country is home to many campgrounds, nature preserves, state parks, and private ranches, making it perfect for great hikes. You can explore the terrain while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. If you're planning to get outdoors and enjoy mood-boosting benefits, here is the list of the best hiking trails in Hill Country.

Barton Creek Greenbelt: The greenbelt area has miles of mountain biking and hiking trails with terrain ranging from fairly elevated to flat. Some areas along the greenbelt also suit climbing adventures.

Garner State Park: The beautiful park has 11 miles of trails, including 3 miles of river frontage. You can also view many native wildlife species, stone cliffs, and huge cypress trees.

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center: Located in Round Mountain, Texas, this beautiful preserve has a cave, waterfall, and hiking trail. For an unforgettable hiking experience, you can hike among the native trees or take wildlife photos.

Hill Country State Natural Area: The area has over 40 multi-use trails for mountain biking and hikes, including a flat 2.5-mile trail. If you would like to ride a horse, you can rent from one of the liveries in Bandera or even bring your own.

Hiking Trails in Texas With Waterfalls

Texas is home to beautiful waterfalls, ideal for anyone looking for a relaxing weekend in the lap of nature. Check out the 5 best places to hike in Texas with waterfalls and explore the stunning beauty of water and crystal-clear rivers.

Cattail Falls: This glorious waterfall is located in Big Bend National Park and is an ideal trail for hikers and adventure enthusiasts alike. It stretches up to 3 miles and will surely make your heart skip a beat with its beauty.

Hamilton Pool Waterfall: It's the only natural pool cum waterfall in Texas known for its marvelous beauty. However, you'll need to make reservations prior since only a limited number of people are allowed to watch the beauty of the waterfalls.

Gorman Falls: It is one of the biggest waterfalls in Texas, located near Dallas. Hiking is much easier in Gorman Falls than at other waterfalls in Texas. However, it's not advisable to visit the place during rainy months.

Pedernales Falls: It is one of the perfect places to relax and chill by the riverside. You can hike to witness the slow, noise-free environment or sit beside the river.

Best Places for Hiking in North Texas 

North Texas is known for plains, grassland prairies, and forests, each with its own merits. For example, forests offer much-needed shade in the summer, and prairies are magical in spring with flowers.

Erwin Park, McKinney: Erwin Park in North Texas has 10 miles of multi-use trails that twist in woods and even smooth out over open fields, with many ups and downs. There are campsites and pavilions for families and friends.

White Rock Lake Trail: It's one of the busiest trails in North Texas, passing nearby features such as the Dallas Arboretum and Bath House Cultural Center. Around the lake, you will also find many picnic areas, a dog park, and kayak rentals.

Best Places for Hiking in East Texas

If you are traveling to the East side of Texas, there are hundreds of trails to choose from. Many of them offer lake views, cascading trees, and bayou strolls for a memorable hiking experience.

Coyote Run Trail: The Coyote Run Trail is ideal for someone who loves wildlife activities. It's perfect for birdwatching, so if you are a fan of birds, this is a great hiking trail for you.

Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail: If you want to go for a nice walk or do small sections of paved hiking near downtown Houston, this is a great place for you. While it is designed for bikers, the trail can also be used by walkers.

Hiking in Texas Checklist and Items 

Hiking in Texas isn't a walk in the park. You'll have to deal with the hot weather, rocky trails, and potential wildfire encounters. That's where the need for an essential hiking checklist arises. Here's a quick list of ten hiking essentials you should pack when heading out for a hike:

Water: At least 3 gallons of water to stay hydrated

Hiking boots: Sturdy and supportive footwear suitable for rocky hiking terrain

Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

Snacks: High-energy food to maintain energy levels

Headlamp: For visibility in low-light conditions

Emergency whistle: To signal for help if needed

Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing appropriate for the weather, including long sleeves and pants to protect against bugs and sun

Navigation tools: Map, compass, or GPS device

First aid kit: Including items for snake bites, wound care, and basic injuries

Solar battery charger: Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station or Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus to charge essential gadgets such as lamps, cell phones, and more

Jackery Portable Power Supply for Hiking

Hiking is undoubtedly one of the most popular outdoor activities that people enjoy on weekends and vacations. However, you will need a reliable solar power station that can charge essential hiking appliances such as lights, smartphones, cameras, etc. Jackery Solar Generators are lightweight, portable, and highly efficient and are designed to power most outdoor appliances during hiking trips.

Whether you want to power your camera to capture beautiful surroundings or keep your smartphone charged to stay connected with loved ones, portable solar generators for hiking sound like a reliable choice. The Jackery Portable Power Stations are also compact and durable enough to withstand rugged terrain. Based on hikers' different power needs, here are the two best portable solar chargers for hiking and camping.

Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station is a compact and lightweight battery backup for solo hiking that weighs only 2.1 lbs or 965 grams. It can fit right in your palm or in your backpack to charge essential appliances on hiking trails. The portable power station's multiple output ports allow you to charge three appliances, such as smartphones, laptops, or lights, at the same time.

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

If you plan a camping or photography session during your hiking trip, you'll need a compact Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus. The camping generator can charge essential devices such as camping lights, cameras, smartphones, laptops, portable fans, electric blankets, etc., for long hours. It features a sturdy, foldable handle and an ergonomic design that makes it easy to move the generator around or pack it in the backpack.

Conclusion

Hiking in Texas is one of the exhilarating outdoor activities that many people prefer. The feeling of being surrounded by beautiful nature and challenging terrain is undoubtedly unmatched. However, before you choose the best hiking trail and go on a hike, you'll need a reliable power source, especially if you want to venture into remote areas. Jackery Solar Generators are compact and lightweight, ideal for hikers and campers. They can charge phones, cameras, portable speakers, and other electronics for a comfortable outdoor trip.