There are times when you need a nature fix, and you don’t have time to visit your favorite hiking trail. Surprisingly, there are some pretty good hiking trails in Dallas.
I asked Master Naturalist Bob Richie about some of his favorite Dallas hiking trails, and I’ve included a few of my favorite spots as well.
Did you know that Dallas is home to the largest urban hardwood forest in America? I didn’t, until Bob was nice enough to show a group us around The Great Trinity Forest.
Some of his favorite places to hike in Dallas include The Scyene Overlook and The Piedmont Ridge Trail.
Piedmont Ridge Trail and The Scyene Overlook
Both of these trails are in the Great Trinity Forest, and begin across from Gateway Park on Jim Miller Road. You can bring your pets, provided you keep them on a leash.
Piedmont Ridge Trail is a short, forested, out and back with good views of the forest along the Trinity River.
The Scyene Overlook Trail climbs through a grove of cedars, to some log benches with an excellent view of the forest.
Dallas hikes don’t get much more natural than these two trails.
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Just a few miles from downtown Dallas, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offers 8 miles of trail, wandering through fields and forested areas.
Cedar Ridge Preserve
Near Cedar Hill State Park, but technically still in Dallas, Cedar Ridge Preserve contains some of my favorite Dallas hikes.
A rarity in the area, this Dallas hiking trail involves a fair amount of elevation change, and some pretty good shade as well.
Trinity River Audubon Center
Good for a short stroll in nature, you can explore the trails or learn about local wildlife at the Children’s Discovery Garden. Just minutes from downtown, this land was once an illegal dumping site. The area was reclaimed by the City of Dallas, and is now a popular place for weddings.
White Rock Lake
White Rock Lake is where I go when I am really pressed for time. While the surroundings are clearly urban, the water is calming, you’ll see wildlife, and there are some very large trees. In the fall, you can even collect pecans, for pies and snacking. The trail follows the banks of the lake, in a 9 mile loop.
Katy Trail
Like sections of the trail at White Rock, Katy Trail is built on top of an old rail line. The trail is an easy escape for those living or working near Uptown. Being a shorter trail it is better used for running or walking.
Campion Trail
This hiking trail is a mix of natural and urban views. Part of the trail follows a fork of the Trinity River. There are restrooms and even outdoor exercise equipment along the way. Avoid this trail after heavy rain, as it is prone to flooding.
Additional Options for Hiking Near Dallas
If you have more than a couple of hours, you might want to consider these options for hiking and camping near Dallas.
For guided Dallas hikes, and lessons on urban foraging, check out the calendar on Bob Richie’s Facebook page.
Which Dallas Hikes Did We Miss?
Did we miss your favorite Dallas hiking trail? Comment to share your favorite Dallas hikes!
Happy Trails.
