Texas is a really large state that takes one day to drive through. Most people rarely think about having to walk across it but with so much land you may want to consider some since there are so many wonderful hiking trails for the outdoor enthusiasts. Many outdoor activities are available ranging from skydiving to hunting at huge ranches like the Lazy J Ranch. Texas has routes covering urban areas, canyons, mountainous peaks and lake shores, just to mention some. If you think about hiking in Texas, start by learning more about the following hikes.
Davy Crockett National Forest
Just 20 miles from Crockett, the protect area covers over 150,000 acres of woodland. There are many different recreation areas and streams. The actual trail name you want to know about is Four C National Hiking. It goes across a former tram track, leading hikers on a trip covering 20 miles from Ratcliff Lake to Neches Bluff Overlook. Make sure that you avoid hunting season and that you prepare for the summer heat since it is really oppressive.
Image by US Forest Service – Southern Region via Flickr
Trinity Skyline Trail
This is a great trail for bikers and hikers, covering 4.6 miles along Trinity River. At the moment the trail system is re-worked and actually included in Metroplex. At the end of the project it will connect the trail with Santa Fe Trail. You will want to schedule a stop at Little Lemmon and Lemon lakes as many migratory birds stop there. If you drive to the trail you can park at the entrance to Little Lemmon Lake.
Image by Steve Standeford via Flickr
Palo Duro Canyon
Locally known as Grand Canyon Of Texas, this is the second of the US canyons in terms of how large it is. We are looking at a rock formation that leads hikers to the base to then cover the peaks. Rangers are rating the trail as easy, with just 3 miles and a reached altitude of 900 feet. However, the truth is that for many the activity will be strenuous. It is worth it though and you do want to have the camera with you.
Image by Martin Konopacki via Flickr
Big Bend National Park
The entire Big Bend is heart stirring and remote, a terrain that combines canyon, mountain landscapes and desert. The Chihuahuan Desert and the Chisos Mountains are two main areas you want to visit. Remember that temperatures are going to suddenly swing from cold to hot and there is an abundance of wildlife around including mountain lions, javelinas, snakes and black bears. Do consider the 2.4 mile long Lost Mine trek and visit the Hot Springs. The South Rim Trail is the most appreciated, going over 16 miles of terrain of different variations.
Image by littlemoresunshine via Flickr
River Walk
This is a really popular San Antonio tourist destination so you can expect so many great decorated boats, shops, restaurants, galleries and bars. However, what is really interesting for many hikers is the segment named Museum Reach. It is 1.3 miles long taking you to Josephine Street from Lexington Avenue. Also, do learn about Mission Reach as it is a woodland ecosystem that is simply stunning.
Image by Phil Roeder via Flickr
