It’s hard to beat a beautiful hike in nature. The most enjoyable hikes in Texas feature some of the greatest nature paths in the nation thanks to the state’s varied geography and the distinctive routes that each municipality has to offer. 

Texas has an abundance of fantastic hiking opportunities, including arid canyons, pristine lakes, and gorgeous woodlands. We’ve gathered the greatest hiking locations in the Lone Star State. 

Whether you’re looking for something novice or a bit strenuous, we have you covered! 

1. Lost Mine Trail

If you are only able to spend one day in Big Bend, the Lost Mine Trail is possibly the most crucial hike to complete. It isn’t overly long, offers an educational map of the Big Bend region’s vegetation, animals, and rock formations, and is conveniently close to lodging, as well as the primary ranger’s station. 

It’s good to keep in mind that this hike is not for novice hikers. Over 1,000 feet of elevation and more than five miles will be covered when completing this hike from start to finish. It’s a good idea to stop and relax at the waypoint designated “Lookout” before resuming your journey. 

There are various rock outcroppings nearby where you may rest and take in your first glimpse of Juniper Canyon, which runs south from here. Additionally, you’ll be able to spot a glimpse of the South Rim from this location. 

Due to its popularity, it is one of the more visited runs in the park. It’s not uncommon to pass by several people during your walk here.

2. Aztec Cave Trail

The Franklin Mountains have a lot of variety in terms of outdoor activities in Texas. A prominent hiking route in the park is the Aztec Cave Trail. As the name suggests, the routes lead to the Aztec caves. Despite being short, the route to the caves is strenuous.  

The trail is clearly signposted and kept in good condition. Here, the terrain gets steeper but is still relatively achievable for hikers after about a half-mile. The reward at the trail’s finish makes the entire journey worthwhile. 

The vantage point from the caves is really breathtaking. Smoke stains on the main cave’s ceiling are proof that individuals from long ago visited this location and took pleasure in the same breathtaking views that tourists do now.

3. Caprock Canyons State Park Trailway

Third on our list for the best hiking in Texas is the Caprock Canyons State Park Trailway. Here you will find a 64-mile trail system. There are deep canyons, brush-filled pastures, and a stunning view over the Caprock Escarpment. 

One of the best parts of visiting this hiking location is the wildlife. At the beginning of the trailhead, you should be able to spot a herd of bison! Although you’re welcome to explore this area on foot, many people choose to bike the trail system.  

It’s relatively wide and flat, with moderate gradients for the majority of the trail. The Caprock Escarpment, a disintegrating slope that stretches 200 miles north to south between Amarillo and Big Spring, is where the trail first descends. 

Soon after, the 60-foot-high Emerson Creek Bridge, the tallest trestle in the Trailway, emerges. A bridge is your cue to keep an eye out for the entry point of Clarity Tunnel is just a few miles away. 

The 582-foot tunnel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, makes a fantastic resting location. 

4. Lighthouse Trail

Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s natural hallmark is the Lighthouse. Numerous artifacts in the surrounding area feature the stone pillar as its centerpiece. This formation’s proximity to the Lighthouse Trail, the most famous hikes in the park, is where it gets its name. 

There are two pathways that run from the parking lot to the trailhead. You can choose either one because they will both join shortly. At Capital Peak, the trail turns west. Rock and compacted soil make up the trail’s surface.

According to the map, the trail enters private property after leaving the park’s boundaries. The Lighthouse, however, is unquestionably inside the park’s boundaries, despite the topography map’s dependency on inaccurate information. 

5. Devil’s River State Natural Area Trail

Travel the 15.6-mile loop trail in the Comstock, TX, area. Usually thought of as a difficult route. Bike riding is a terrific activity on this trail, and you won’t likely run into many other riders. The route is lovely to explore at any time of the year and is open all year. 

Dogs are permitted, but they must be on a leash at all times. This loop visits numerous locations throughout Devils River State Natural Area and is both scenic and difficult. Wearing sturdy shoes is advised because some areas of the walk can be very rough and rocky. 

The neighboring hillside panoramas can be seen from magnificent perspectives at the ridgeline’s summit.

6. Cypress Creek Trail

Hikers of all ages in Texas may enjoy Cypress Creek Trail’s many parks, walking areas, and easy trails. You might have an entirely distinct experience based on where you begin and how you travel through each section.  

This one aspect makes the 2.3-mile trek more enjoyable since it makes each hike feel new. The majority of this trail is level and well-kept. Admire the views and shade provided by the trail’s forested elements. 

You can continue on a path that circles the Cypress Creek Nature Preserve. Signs that guide you through the forest’s trees describe the local wildlife and flora. Along the walk are benches that offer a peaceful place to rest. 

This short hike in the woods is all you need to feel completely at peace.

7. Hueco Tanks Laguna Prieta Trail To Kiva Cave

For many years, mankind has been captivated by this location. Discover the 0.6-mile out-and-back trail that is close to El Paso, TX. Start your exploration of North Mountain’s stunning, dramatic cliffs at the Interpretive Center.  

It requires an average of 18 minutes to finish and is typically regarded as a moderately difficult course. Although this trail is well-liked for bird watching, hiking, and walking, you can still find some tranquility during the slower times of the day. 

Dogs must stay at home because this trail is off-limits to them. This path leads to a beautiful cave where you may see pictographs. Since the trail winds over rocky terrain that might be challenging to traverse, it is advised that you download the offline guide to ensure you don’t get lost during your visit.

8. Warbler Vista Trail

For this particular trek, Texas combines two paths that are part of the Warbler Vista parcel. Only the route segments with views of a few others emerge from the dense undergrowth. 

There is a display with informative trail instructions close to the trailhead that offers details regarding the local geology and the creatures that call this place home. 

Markers placed along the path show which numbered portion of the guide covers a particular feature or animal. To obtain fantastic views of Lake Travis and the hill area, turn left at the Vista Knoll Trail and go south.

The loop walk almost completely surrounds a small hill, offering panoramas in all directions.

The Vista Knoll section of the trip, which drops down a backbone ridge and then climbs up again to the hilltop from which the path gets its name, is a little more difficult than the Cactus Rocks segment. 

It has more rugged terrain and fewer trees, which both add to the breathtaking views.

9. Kirby Trail

Calling all nature lovers! On the Kirby Nature Trail, discover the Big Thicket’s diversity.  Both newcomers and seasoned naturalists will enjoy this location. This area of the woods is teeming with life thanks to the majestic, old cypress trees, the marshy bay galls, the deep woodland, and the peaceful streams of Village Creek.

The 1.5-mile core loop includes a further 0.3-mile circuit to view more of the landscape. The 2.5-mile outer circle includes the majority of the inner loop’s terrain in addition to a small amount more.

Wheelchair users can visit Staley Cabin and the first quarter-mile of the loop, both of which are accessible. The route from the parking area to Staley Cabin is made up of both a boardwalk and asphalt.  

With a few wooden boardwalks, this path is primarily made of hard-packed soil and foliage. Wheelchairs can go on the trail, however, it might be difficult at times due to small dips, roots from trees, and washouts.

10. The Summit Trail

Despite being a relatively short trip, Summit Trail features some moderately steep terrain. This trail offers no cover at all, and the summer heat can be intense. Also possible is a lot of wind. The top offers amazing panoramas of the surrounding hilly region. 

The area’s stunning vegetation is displayed through multiple vernal pools at the peak, which typically have grasses or cacti sprouting in them. The majority of the Summit Trail is made of solid granite, with sprinkles of loose stones and rocks along the way.

At the beginning of the walk, a wet weather brook crosses over the trail. 

11. The Window Trail

The Window Trail is the most well-traveled hiking trail in the Chisos Mountains and perhaps in the entire Big Bend National Park. This place is a great choice during those Texas days that seem too hot to hike. 

Thankfully, the weather here is usually tolerable year-round. The trail begins in Chisos Basin and travels for two miles along the upper reaches of Oak Creek Canyon until it reaches the western border of the mountains when the seasonal creek disappears vertically by 220 feet. 

The path is large, heavily traveled, and usually easy with a couple of rockier portions near the bottom. Downstream, the ravine becomes more and more overgrown, and the route traverses an ample amount of greenery as well as a few unique rock formations.

This is also a fantastic place to bring your binoculars and enjoy a bit of wildlife viewing! No matter which trail you choose, always adhere to the trail etiquette!

Summary of the Best Hikes in Texas