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Best Places to hike in Houston, Texas

Houston, the largest single metropolis in Texas, is recognized for its southern charm, world-class culture, and universal appeal. In Houston, there is always something interesting for everyone, including those who are into hiking and outdoor activities. Even though Houston is mostly an urban city with limited open areas, it has many hidden gems that are excellent for a relaxed day out and perfect for getting some exercise through hiking.

Houston has an abundance of hiking spots and trails. Hiking in Houston is a great way to get away from the busy streets and get a close-up look at the area’s diverse natural surroundings. Here are some of the best trails for hiking in and near Houston that will allow you to explore lovely bayous and quiet lakes, as well as the enchanting woodlands that distinguish Houston from the rest of the state.

Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail — Hermann Park Conservancy

Length of Trail: 2 miles
Cost: Free
Location: Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail, Houston, TX 77004
Phone: (713) 524-5876

The Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail in Hermann Park Conservancy is one of the most famous hiking trails in Houston. The two-mile trail is made of decomposed granite, shaded by live oaks, and surrounded by eco-friendly fitness stations. It is one of Houston’s easiest hiking trails, ideal for families with children. If you have your fur baby with you, dogs are also welcome to join the hike as long as they’re on a leash. This famous walking and running trail is approximately 10 minutes from downtown Houston and is surrounded by several of the city’s main attractions, including Hermann Park and the Museum District.

The Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail is a great way to get some fresh air without having to leave the city. You and your family can stroll through the shade of old live oaks or work up a sweat at one of the many eco-friendly gym stations along the way. Because of its well-maintained paved and illuminated trails, you can utilize the trail at any time of day or night. You can rest assured you are safe, even after dark.

Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail

Length of Trail: 10 miles loop
Cost: Free
Location: 152000 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079
Phone: (281) 496-2177

Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail is a great place to spend time with friends and family while hiking and doing other outdoor activities. You can spend hours strolling through the dense forest and cycling on the concrete roads if you get weary of walking on the gravel trail. Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail is another family-friendly trail that provides fantastic outdoor exercise bonding for the entire family. The trial includes:

  • Restrooms
  • Gazebos
  • Lighted walking trail
  • Exercise stations
  • Playground
  • Picnic sites
  • And more

The park has miles of walking and biking routes with stunning views and greenery. Parts of the trail are thickly forested, while others have huge open meadows. There are lovely wooden bridges and opportunities to watch herons, egrets, and bunnies. Not many people know this, but there is an area in the Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail where you stand on a certain stone and your shadow will tell time — like a human-sized sundial. Indeed, the Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail are ideal not only for hiking and exercising but also for taking in the scenery and having fun with the group.

Buffalo Bayou Park

Length of Trail: 15 miles one way
Cost: Free
Location: 1800 Allen Pkwy & Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77019
Phone: (713) 752-0314

Buffalo Bayou Park is a massive municipal park near downtown Houston that encompasses 160 acres. It features a fantastic view of the city skyline and various pathways that are ideal for hiking and even cycling. Furthermore, Buffalo Bayou Park also has a dog park, picnic area, and children’s playground. Buffalo Bayou Park is 15 miles long and completely paved, providing a wonderful outdoor getaway in an urban area. This is ideal for people who want a sweet and easy hiking experience. Buffalo Bayou Park allows you to hike while watching the view of the park’s overall greenery and the breathtaking view of the slow-moving body of water that flows through Houston.

If you need to relax, you can have a picnic in one of the numerous shaded and comfortable areas. After a long walk and hiking, you can explore Buffalo Bayou Park further by renting bicycles, kayaks, and canoes. You will not only get some exercise, but you will also be able to make special moments with your friends and family in Buffalo Bayou Park.

Memorial Park

Length of Trail: 2.88 miles one way
Cost: Free
Location: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Phone: (713) 863-8403

Memorial Park, with 1,466 acres, is one of the largest hiking parks in the country. Memorial Park features a circular track through the woods towards Memorial Drive’s south end that is ideal for hiking. Memorial Park is a popular destination for Houstonians wishing to get away from the city’s hectic pace. Memorial Park is distinguished from other inner-city parks in Houston by the presence of many path networks. There are at least thirteen separate systems spread across nearly 1,500 acres, each with varied flora and wildlife.

In addition to the excellent hiking trails, you may enjoy the jogging course, volleyball, softball, swimming, tennis, cycling, and other attractions. The park also has the Memorial Park Golf Course, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, Becks Prime, and other attractions. Dogs are welcome to accompany you on your hike as long as they are leashed, however, the number of bicycles may be too much for easily frightened pups.

Whether you live in the city or just visiting, a hike through Memorial Park is a must-visit while seeking the greatest hiking in Houston.

Spring Creek Nature Trail — Bayou Land Conservancy

Length of Trail: 14 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 10330 Lake Rd, Houston, TX 77070
Phone: (281) 576-1634

Spring Creek Nature Trail in Bayou Land Conservancy is a hidden gem with an excellent hiking trail just north of downtown. You might forget you’re so close to the city as you walk along the sandy banks of Spring Creek. The Spring Creek Greenway is the nation’s longest and most connected urban forestry corridor. If you enjoy hiking, biking, and watching wildlife, the Spring Creek Nature trail is perfect for you. The trail is located in one of the most densely populated areas in the country and provides a habitat for wild animals that you may see while hiking.

This wildlife includes:

  • Gray foxes
  • Bald eagles
  • Salamanders
  • Centuries-old palmettos
  • Sycamores
  • Bald cypresses
  • And many more

Your hike begins with a small drop on a single-track path that leads hikers past campgrounds and to the magnificent Spring Creek. Following the creek, you can continue to hike through rhododendron tunnels. After a few miles of hiking along Spring Creek, the trail returns to the forest and begins a slow ascent back up to the Rocky Bluff Campground. Hikers will pass across a junction that leads to an amphitheater before returning to the campground where the trip started.

This 8.45-mile-long path is lined with sandy beaches and massive bald cypress trees. The walk takes you through a hardwood-pine forest and along a flowing mountain creek famed for trout fishing.

The Lone Star Hiking Trail — Sam Houston National Forest

Length of Trail: 128 miles
Cost: $5 per person
Location: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358
Phone: (936) 344-6205

Sam Houston National Forest has one of the best hiking trails in Houston and is ideal for people who are into difficult and extended hikes — the Lone Star Hiking Trail. The Sam Houston National Forest, named after the city’s founder, is a gorgeous area teeming with woodland of all kinds. This national forest is 163,000 acres in size, and the Lone Star Hiking Trail within the national forest spans 128 miles. It is considered one of the most difficult and longest hiking trails in the country. It has extensive hiking trails with aluminum signs to guide hikers, and there are beautiful camping areas nearby.

Although this is a long and challenging trail, it is not necessary to complete everything in one visit. The keepers of the Lone Star Hiking Trail welcome hikers of all skill levels and are happy to give beneficial recommendations to anyone new to the activity.

The Lone Star Hiking Trail is ideal if you want to get away from the city and visit a peaceful and shady region where you can explore many types of flora and wildlife. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water activities are also popular at Lake Conroe, within the Sam Houston National Forest.

Other Great Hiking Near Houston Worth Visiting:

  • Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
  • White Oak Bayou Trail
  • Lake Houston Wilderness Park
  • Galveston Island State Park
  • Bastrop State Park
  • Armand Bayou Nature Center
  • San Jacinto Trail Loop
  • Brazos Bend State Park

Quick Tips for Hiking in Houston

Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, hiking on the top hiking trails near Houston is best if you are well-prepared and ready. Here is some advice for hiking near Houston:

  • Know your limitations: The length and complexity of the hiking trails on our list are provided so that you can plan according to your physical condition. Know your limits and never push yourself too far because hiking is a physical exercise that can harm your body if not done properly.
  • Wear appropriate attire: Although most of the trails in Houston are short and easy with a focus on sightseeing, it is always best to dress appropriately for hiking. Always wear sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate hiking gear and footwear.
  • Bring plenty of water: Bring plenty of drinking water with you. Hiking is a demanding physical activity that necessitates drinking enough water to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Do not disturb the wildlife: Most hiking trails in Huston have wildlife. Some animals may feel threatened or frightened in the presence of humans. As a result, you should never startle, disturb, approach, or feed wild animals.
  • Take care of your trash: When bringing snacks and drinks for a hike, remember to take care of your trash. Be a responsible hiker and help preserve the beauty and quality of hiking in Houston.

Experience the Beauty of Houston Through Hiking

Hiking in Houston provides more than just physical activity; it helps relax your mind and allows you to reconnect with the stunning nature of Houston. Most importantly, hiking is one of the best activities to have fun and bond with family and friends.

Whatever kind of hiking you prefer, Houston hiking trails have it all. If you like easy hiking and only want to get some light exercise, there are several parks and hiking trails near Houston that offer short, easy routes for you to work up a sweat while admiring Houston’s lovely nature and beauty. If you prefer longer and more challenging trails, Houston has some of the longest and most difficult trails in the country. Whatever type of trekking you like, Houston’s hiking trails are ideal for making memories and enjoying your visit to Houston with family and friends.

Hiking trails in Houston allow you to enjoy the full outdoor experience that Houston’s natural beauty and charm have to offer. Houston’s trails provide much more than just hiking — you can spend time with your family, have a picnic, relax in the beauty and nature, and take photos and videos for treasured moments on family-friendly trails. Houston is a must-see destination, and you should not miss out on hiking one of the top hiking trails in Houston.