Use this list to help plan the best hiking in Texas.
It includes some of the most popular hiking destinations across the state, including location and type of terrain.
Here are eight of the top hiking destinations in Texas (TX):
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is situated in Marble Falls, west of Austin and provides 7 miles of beautiful trails throughout this wildlife sanctuary.
A great hiking trail is Rimrock Trail, which has a perfect climb to give an opportunity to admire the wonderful hill country below.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is one of the best hiking in Texas sites and perfect for both the day-hikers and pro backpackers.
This hiking trail stretches some 150 miles to provide endless beauty while exploring this region of west Texas.
Enchanted Rock
Enchanted Rock is situated about 15-18 miles north of Fredericksburg. It has a challenging hike to reach the top of the giant mass of rock, but you will get a perfect view of the surrounding hill country once the summit is reached.
Great attractions in the region include rock climbing and pink granite dome. A permit is required for those planning to camp in the area.
Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples State Natural Area is situated about 45 miles southwest of Kerrville. The park takes its name from the many bigtooth maples in the region.
This state natural area is a perfect hiking destination for the novice hiking and gives the opportunity to explore the Hill Country canyon. Plus, a great time to experience this hike is throughout the fall to really notice the magical display of changing colors.
Attractions in the local area include deep canyons and fall maples. A permit is required for those planning to camp.
Guadalupe Peak
Part of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Guadalupe Peak is situated about 100 miles east of El Paso and is the highest point in the park.
In order to reach the peak, a trip up Guadalupe Peak is a hike of nearly 3000-ft which provides sheer beauty and comfortable elevation gain.
On arriving at the peak you will be at the highest point in Texas. This trail is perfect for those with at least a full day to hike and has a fitness level of average or better.
Colorado Bend State Park
The Colorado Bend State Park is situated in Bend, Texas, and is a diverse state park with over 30 miles of beautiful trails to explore.
Great attractions in the local area include Gorman Falls (60-ft high waterfall), deep canyons, and impressive hills.
Garner State Park
Garner State Park is situated in Concan, TX, and has 11 miles of trails stretching across this scenic park, which are close to the rocky hill country terrain and the Frio River.
Sam Houston National Forest
Sam Houston National Forest is situated in Huntsville, TX, and gives the opportunity to explore 128 miles of winding trails that includes the Lone Star Hiking Trail.
Because of the length of the hiking trails in the national forest, it will be necessary to make multiple trips if wishing to explore most of what the region has to offer.
Matt Green, is an avid hiker and lover of the great outdoors. He is always planning his next big trip or hitting the trails for a solo hike.
He’s traveled extensively to many remote regions and has plenty of experience exploring various terrains, and stories to tell.