The 7 most incredible hikes in Texas

27.08.2023 - 11:47 / lonelyplanet.com

As the second-largest state in the USA, it’s no surprise that Texas has two national parks, 12 nationally protected areas, and 80 state parks and recreation sites. And there's no better way to explore these outdoor spaces than on a hike.

Some trails cut through remote canyons and mountains along the borders of the state, while others are a short drive from a downtown metropolitan area. The Lone Star State has one of the most diverse sets of ecosystems in the country, allowing you to take trails that meander through wetlands, others that weave through forests, flat trails leading you through fields of wildflowers on prairies and plains, and colorful, rocky desert treks.

With so many places to hike in Texas, it can be hard to know where to start. We’ve gathered some of our favorite trails, but we encourage you to look beyond this list with every visit. The landscapes of Texas are broad and diverse, and hikers will discover wonderful environments no matter where they go.

Best day hike
12.5 to 15 miles roundtrip, 6-7 hours, difficult

Big Bend National Park is one of the two national parks in Texas and it covers the arid Chisos Mountain Range along the Texas-Mexico border. The park has grown in popularity with hikers over the last ten years, though not everyone can manage the South Rim Trail. A 12.5-mile hike is difficult enough for even an advanced hiker, but when you consider that temperatures here regularly go over 100F, it can be a treacherous trek if you're not properly prepared.

Wear your most durable hiking shoes on this mountainous loop trail. Expect some steep ascents and a 2000-ft elevation gain that results in views of the mountains of Northern Mexico. Keep an eye out for signs of black bears, mountain lions, deer, lizards, and Mexican jays.

If 12.5 miles in one day is too much, consider backcountry camping along the trail. You can also add a trek to Emory Peak, which is an additional 3 miles. As the highest peak of the Chisos Mountain Range, the views on Emory Peak are well worth the additional 1.5 hours of hiking.

Best hike for families
1.01 miles, 1 hour, moderate

Discover a tropical haven by hiking the Ottine Swamp Trail in Palmetto State Park. This park is full of dwarf palmettos, many of which can be seen along this hike.

The wide, flat gravel trail is labeled as moderate, but young children and those with lower fitness levels shouldn’t have an issue on this path – it features tropical greenery and entrancing swamps. Keep an eye out for armadillos, deer, and beautiful birds.

You can choose to make a pit stop at the historic Civilian Conservation Corps Water Tower, which pumps water into the wetlands of Palmetto State Park. Make sure to bring mosquito spray, as this state park is muggy, which