From the piney woods of East Texas to the majestic mountains of Big Bend, the Lone Star State offers no shortage of spectacular hiking. With over 600 miles of trails winding through diverse terrain, Texas has options for hikers of every ability level.
Whether you prefer easy nature walks or challenging summit climbs, iconic parks like Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains National Park await. Even the sprawling cities like Houston and Austin harbor excellent urban hikes.
Here are the top 5 hiking trails catering to all skill levels in Texas that you won’t want to miss.
1. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail (Easy)
In the heart of downtown Austin lies the scenic Lady Bird Lake and its 10-mile loop trail encircling the reservoir. The paved and mostly flat path is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone seeking an easy urban hike.
As you stroll along the waterfront, you’ll soak up fantastic skyline views of the city. The trail also passes through a lush wildlife sanctuary teeming with birds. Look for herons, cormorants, turtles basking on logs, and the occasional alligator!
With mileage markers, bathrooms, and drinking fountains along the way, the Lady Bird Lake Trail is one of the most accessible and pleasant easy hikes in Texas.
Location: Austin, TX
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 10 miles
2. Guadalupe River State Park (Easy)
Situated in the Texas Hill Country near San Antonio, Guadalupe River State Park shelters over 80 miles of trails for hiking. One of the easiest and most scenic is the 3.6 mile Guadalupe Ridge Trail.
This route offers superb vistas of the Guadalupe River valley without any significant elevation gain. As you follow the ridgetop trail through grasslands and oak woodlands, you’ll enjoy nonstop views.
Keep your eyes peeled for birds of prey and colorful wildflowers in bloom spring through fall. With its mellow terrain and gorgeous scenery, the Guadalupe Ridge Trail is a perfect beginner hike.
Location: Spring Branch, TX
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.6 miles
3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (Moderate)
Visible for miles, the enormous pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock looms above central Texas. Surrounding the rock is Enchanted Rock State Park, which offers moderate hiking trails to the summit for panoramic views.
One of the most popular routes is the 1.2 mile Summit Trail which gains around 400 feet. After a moderate uphill climb, you’ll enjoy sprawling vistas over the park and lush hills beyond. The high elevation means cool breezes, even on hot summer days.
Enchanted Rock has a rich geological history spanning over a billion years. Grab a trail map to learn about the unique rock formations and plants along the way. Just beware the crowds on weekends.
Location: Fredericksburg, TX
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.2 miles
4. Big Bend National Park (Moderate to Difficult)
Renowned for its incredible scenery, Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas offers 150 miles of trails catering to all abilities. A standout is the 7.4 mile South Rim Trail delivering truly epic views after a strenuous uphill trek.
The constant elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet makes for a challenging hike. But pro hikers say the far-as-the-eye-can-see vistas stretching to Mexico are one of the best payoffs in Texas.
Along the South Rim you’ll also find fascinating volcanic rock formations and stands of century plants. Just be sure to start early before the desert heats up. With its demanding climb and jaw-dropping views, the South Rim Trail is a must for experienced hikers.
Location: Terlingua, TX
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 7.4 miles
5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Difficult)
Home to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts over 80 miles of scenic trails. But the 8.4 mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Guadalupe Peak is undoubtedly the crown jewel and most challenging.
This strenuous trek gains over 3,000 feet in elevation as you climb 5,000 foot Guadalupe Peak. You’ll pass through four different life zones on the ascent from desert scrub to pine forest. The views from the top are truly awesome, extending 100 miles on clear days.
Due to the drastic elevation gain, high altitude, and sheer difficulty, Guadalupe Peak is strictly for expert hikers in good physical condition. But it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the ultimate adventure for hardcore hikers in Texas.
Location: Salt Flat, TX
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 8.4 miles
Conclusion
Whether you prefer leisurely strolls or strenuous climbs, Texas has amazing hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Beginners will love easy routes around Lady Bird Lake and Guadalupe River State Park. For a moderate challenge, climb Enchanted Rock or explore scenic trails in Big Bend. And advanced hikers can conquer the towering summit of Guadalupe Peak.
With everything from towering mountains to desert canyons to lush forests, the hiking possibilities are endless across the Lone Star State. Just pack your gear, lace up your boots, and hit the trails! Let us know your favorite Texas hikes in the comments.
