The 7 Most Amazing Hikes in Texas

Being the second-largest state in the USA, it’s no wonder that Texas boasts two national parks, 12 nationally designated areas, and 80 state parks and recreation sites. There’s no better way to experience these natural wonders than by hitting the trails.

Some trails wind through secluded canyons and mountains along the state’s borders, while others are just a quick drive from major urban centers. Texas is home to one of the most varied ecosystems in the country, offering trails that traverse wetlands, weave through forests, guide you across fields of wildflowers in prairies and plains, and lead you on colorful, rocky paths through the desert.

With so many hiking options in Texas, knowing where to begin can be challenging. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite trails, but we encourage you to explore beyond this selection during each visit. The landscapes in Texas are vast and varied, ensuring hikers encounter remarkable environments no matter where they venture.

1. South Rim Trail at Big Bend National Park

Top Day Hike12.5 to 15 miles roundtrip, 6-7 hours, challenging

Big Bend National Park is one of Texas’s two national parks, featuring the arid Chisos Mountain Range along the border with Mexico. Over the past decade, the park has seen a surge in popularity among hikers, though the South Rim Trail is not for everyone. Covering 12.5 miles, this hike poses a significant challenge even for seasoned hikers, especially with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F, making preparation crucial.

Ensure you wear your toughest hiking shoes for this rugged loop trail. Be prepared for steep climbs and a 2000-ft elevation gain that rewards you with breathtaking views of the Northern Mexican mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, deer, lizards, and Mexican jays.

If tackling 12.5 miles in a single day seems daunting, consider backcountry camping along the trail. You can also take a detour to Emory Peak, adding another 3 miles. As the highest point in the Chisos Mountain Range, the vistas from Emory Peak are definitely worth the extra 1.5 hours of hiking.

2. Ottine Swamp Trail at Palmetto State Park

Top Family Hike1.01 miles, 1 hour, moderate

Explore a tropical paradise by hiking the Ottine Swamp Trail in Palmetto State Park. This park is abundant with dwarf palmettos, many of which line the trail.

The broad, flat gravel path is rated as moderate, but it’s accessible for young children and those with varying fitness levels – the route is adorned with lush tropical foliage and captivating swamps. Keep an eye out for armadillos, deer, and a variety of stunning birds.

Consider making a stop at the historic Civilian Conservation Corps Water Tower, which supplies water to the wetlands of Palmetto State Park. Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent, as the humid conditions of this state park are perfect for attracting pesky mosquitoes.

3. Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon

Top Canyon Trail5.8 miles roundtrip, moderate

Texas boasts the second-largest canyon in the U.S. – Palo Duro Canyon. The Lighthouse Trail is the park's most frequented hike (be prepared for fellow hikers), leading to the renowned rock formation known as The Lighthouse.

Situated in the Texas Panhandle, this canyon experiences a hot, arid climate. This trail is notorious for having the highest number of heat-related injuries and fatalities among both hikers and pets in the park. It’s crucial to carry plenty of water and exercise caution while navigating the cliffs or rocky areas.

As you trek along, you'll encounter desert shrubs, cacti, and stunning geological formations. If you come in the spring, vibrant wildflowers will brighten the already vivid landscape. Keep an eye out for the rare Texas Horned Toad, an endangered creature resembling a spiky-backed lizard.

4. Rio Grande Trail in Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Ideal for bird watching, wheelchair accessible1.8 miles, easy

Many people don't realize that parts of the Texas-Mexico border are a birder’s haven. The Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in Mission, Texas, is part of the World Birding Center and hosts 360 bird species, including the Plain Chachalaca, Great Kiskadee, and Altamira Oriole. It also serves as a stopover for migratory hawks and is home to bobcats, butterflies, and javelinas.

Embark on the 1.8-mile Rio Grande Trail, a wheelchair-accessible path perfect for all ages. Don’t miss the two-story, wheelchair-accessible Hawk Observation Tower, especially in spring and fall when hawks are abundant in the canopy. During other seasons, you can enjoy views of Mexico from the tower.

5. Fate Bell Pictograph Trail at Seminole Canyon State Park

Best for viewing petroglyphs1-mile roundtrip, 1 hour, moderate

Humans have called Seminole Canyon State Park home for over 8000 years—ancient societies sought refuge in the Fate Bell cave, leaving behind stunning pictographs believed to be created around 4000 years ago.

To view these remarkable pictographs, join a guided hike led by a park ranger, as self-guided hikes are not permitted at this site. After navigating through a breathtaking canyon, you’ll reach the historical site where your guide will explain the vibrant paintings and the rock ovens used by ancient inhabitants for cooking.

Make your visit soon, as some of these pictographs are expected to vanish entirely within 20 years due to environmental exposure.

6. East Trail at Lost Maples State Park

Best forest hike and ideal for overnight camping3.1 miles, 3 hours, challenging

Lost Maples State Park features the Uvalde Bigtooth Maple trees, a rare maple forest that endured climate changes since the Ice Age. Explore these treasured maples along with Bald Cypress and Sycamore trees on the East Trail, which spans just over 3 miles.

This hike is particularly magical in the fall when the foliage transforms, but it remains a stunning trek throughout the year. The vibrant trees, along with unique features like the monkey-shaped Monkey Rock and a colorful Grotto, contribute to it being the most popular trail in the park.

Get ready for a rugged path with steep climbs and breathtaking views of Texas Hill Country and the Sabinal River. There are a few primitive campsites along this route, as well as a compost toilet for convenience.

7. Spicewood Springs Trail at Colorado Bend State Park

Best hike for waterfalls and swimming3.8 miles, moderate

Colorado Bend State Park features some fantastic hikes, including the Gorman Falls Trail that takes you to a stunning waterfall. However, if you're limited on time, we recommend the Spicewood Springs Trail as a must-do.

The trail comprises dirt, gravel, and rocky paths that guide hikers past beautiful pools and waterfalls sourced from the Spicewood Springs. From March to October, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the springs and swimming holes, especially delightful after a hike through the canyon.

The path crosses a couple of creeks, so be sure to bring extra socks or wear water-resistant hiking shoes.

Tips for hiking in Texas

Check the weather

Always check the weather forecast before heading out for a hike in Texas. If temperatures are predicted to reach 90-110°F, plan to hike early in the morning. Tornadoes typically occur in the northern region, while hurricanes and tropical storms impact the southern areas. Weather can change rapidly, so keep an eye on both the sky and the forecast during your hike.

Bring extra water

Regardless of whether you're trekking through a desert or a humid region, it's crucial to stay hydrated in the often hot Texas climate. Bring more water than you think you'll need and consider having electrolytes available for after your hike.

Dress suitably

What you choose to wear on a hike in Texas is crucial. Sturdy hiking shoes can safeguard your ankles on rugged trails and protect against venomous snakes. Wearing long sleeves and pants helps shield you from bug bites (especially mosquitoes), sunburns, and rashes from poison ivy or oak. Don’t forget sunglasses for the bright Texas sun, and a hat is always a smart addition.

Check for burn restrictions

As previously noted, Texas can become extremely hot and dry, particularly during droughts. Depending on your hiking location, there may be burn restrictions in place. This typically indicates that it's considered unsafe and illegal to start a wood fire at campsites.

Snakes

While there are 105 species of snakes in Texas, with 15 of them posing a threat to humans, you're statistically more likely to be struck by lightning than bitten by a snake. That said, you might encounter one while hiking. If you do, remain still and allow it to pass, or back away slowly. Wearing appropriate footwear like hiking boots can offer some protection against bites. However, if bitten, seek medical help immediately.

If you're worried about venomous snakes, you can recognize them by their coloration (copperheads feature reddish-brown bands on a lighter background), sounds (rattlesnakes produce a distinctive rattling sound), and habitats (cottonmouths are typically found near water).

Do not collect artifacts

Taking rocks, animals, or any other artifacts from a state park in Texas is against the law, so ensure you leave everything undisturbed. This rule also applies to flowers! Regardless of how stunning that wildflower may look, picking it in a state park is prohibited.