Did you resolve to get outdoors, hike or bike more this year? Hiking and biking outdoors can not only give you a calorie burn, but it can help reduce stress, too. Lucky for you the Dallas area is home to a range of hiking paths and bike trails. Here are 10 biking and hiking trails around Dallas for you to consider.
1. Dogwood Canyon
Where: Cedar Hill
Easy, Moderate, Difficult
Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center offers over two miles of trails that wind through the forested canyon. For a leisurely hike, consider the easy half-mile roundtrip Canyon Floor Trail. And for those seeking a challenge, the strenuous West Loop, which provides impeccable panoramic views, is a good option. The natural area also has a Nature Play area that is great for kids. Here, leashed-dogs are only allowed on on Sundays. Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center is located on FM 1382 between Northwood University and Cedar Hill State Park.
2. Cedar Ridge Nature Center
Where: South Dallas
Easy, Moderate, Difficult
Offering nine miles of hiking trails, this South Dallas nature preserve spans 600 acres. Located between Mountain Creek Parkway and FM 1382 and just 20 minutes from the center of the city, this natural habitat offers trails that range from easy to difficult. Cedar Ridge Nature Center is filled with wildlife, like the rare black-capped Vireo, as well as butterfly gardens, and picnic areas.
3. L.B. Houston Nature Trail
Where: Northwest Dallas
Easy, Moderate
Great for mountain biking, this 10-mile trail in Northwest Dallas offers experiences for riders of varying abilities, from beginner to intermediate. While not entirely reserved for biking, this multi-use trail near the Trinity River is open to all outdoor lovers. Bike riders and hikers can access the area via California Parkland Road.
4. Katy Trail
Where: Dallas Proper
Easy
This popular hiking and biking destination has quickly become a favorite of Dallas outdoor enthusiasts since its creation in 2000. In fact, each year Katy Trail attracts more than one million visitors. Great for jogging, walking the dog, or leisurely bike riding, this well-maintained Dallas hiking trail is comprised of a 30-acre park and 125 acres of urban parkland, connected by bike paths and pedestrian walkways. Park near Knox Street for best access to the trail. Or, to access Katy Trail from Downtown Dallas, park at Reverchon Park, near the baseball fields.
5. Arbor Hills Nature Center
Where: Plano/Collin County
Easy, Moderate
This 200-acre park and trail system is great for walking, jogging, orienteering, and hiking. Here, sections of the trail systems are divided up between a designated off-road cycling trail that spans 2.8 miles, a paved 3-mile recreational trail, and 3 miles of unpaved trail for pedestrians only. Pets are allowed. Arbor Hills can be accessed via Parker Road and is just a short distance from The Place at Harvestree.
6. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Where: Oak Cliff
Moderate
This 8-mile trail, which consists of six loops, is frequently used by trail runners, hikers and off-road cyclists. This moderate Dallas-area hiking trail is notable for its wildflowers, wet water crossing and open areas. Oak Cliff is accessible via Pierce Street. Leashed dogs are welcome.
7. Spring Creek Forest
Where: Garland
Easy
Located in North Garland, just 14 miles from Downtown Dallas, this moderately-trafficked route, which offers both paved and unpaved trails, is good for all skill levels, especially for beginners. Leashed dogs are allowed on the the 2.5-mile loop. Parking is available at 1770 Holford Road.
8. Windmill Hill
Where: Desoto
Moderate
75 acres of nature preserve make up Windmill Hill. Located at the southeast corner of Wintergreen and Duncanville Roads, this natural area provides a foot-trail that winds through greenery and preserved flowers. Comprised of gentle slopes and some steep areas, Windmill Hill is rated moderate. The trail is pet-friendly.
9. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge
Where: Northwest Fort Worth
Easy, Moderate
It’s not unusual to spot wildlife like deer or bison when hiking through this 20-mile nature center and refuge. While good for varying skill levels, hikers should expect tall grass along the natural trails. Note, admission is required to access the refuge. Trails can be accessed via the Nature Center entrance. Dogs on leashes are permitted.
10. Sansom Park
Where: Fort Worth/Tarrant County
Easy, Moderate, Difficult
Comprised of multiple connection loops, the trails at Sansom Park provides challenging bike trails for riders of varying experience levels, from beginner to expert. Here, riders can find scenic vistas, including a view of Lake Worth. Hikers are also welcome and the trail is pet-friendly. Sansom Park is located just miles from the 820, off of Lake Worth Boulevard.
