25 Must-Do Hikes in Texas
You've got a lot of ground to cover.
Texas is a huge state and even though much of the terrain is the rugged desert landscape that you'd expect, you'll also be surprised at the diversity you'll find on the trail. From lush swimming holes, to wildflower meadows and epic summit views, the Lone Star State has a few gems hidden up its sleeve. Whether you're looking for a remote, all-day trek or just a quick escape close to town, everyone can find something that satisfies their hiking needs on this list.
1. Hike to the Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon
Photo: Korey Taylor
2. Hike to Cattail Falls
Photo: Andrew Slaton
3. Hike Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend
Photo: Sarah Vaughn
4. Climb Guadalupe Peak
Photo: Tim Holland
5. Hike to Enchanted Rock
Photo: Nick Tort
6. Hike the Gypsum Sand Dunes, Guadalupe Mountains NP
Photo: Kyle Obermann
7. Hike through the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Photo: Taylor Klugman
8. Hike the Window Trail in Big Bend
Photo: Chris Mongeau
9. Hike through St. Edwards Park
Photo: Brooke Simmons
10. Hike to the Boquillas Hot Springs
Photo: Korey Taylor
11. Hike Big Bend’s Emory Peak
Photo: Warren Goh
12. Hike among the Gators in Brazos Bend
Photo: Dan Casioppo
13. Hike to West Peak
Photo: Korey Taylor
14. Hike to Crockett Gardens and Falls
Photo: Amanda Webb
15. Hike to the Upper Guale Mesa in Big Bend Ranch State Park
Photo: Andrew Miller
16. Hike through Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
Photo: Amanda Webb
17. Hike Palo Duro Canyon’s Rock Garden Trail
Photo: Greg Christensen
18. Hike Cedar Flats Trail at Eisenhower Park
Photo: Lauren Bonczek
19. Hike the Closed Canyon Trail in Big Bend Ranch SP
Photo: Helen Yoon
20. Hike the East Trail at Lost Maples
Photo: Sarah Vaughn
21. Summit Old Baldy, Garner State Park
Photo: Sarah Vaughn
22. Hike Pine Ridge Overlook
Photo: Brooke Simmons
23. Hike through the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Photo: Dan Toups
24. Hike Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls via Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
Photo: Erin Newman-Mitchell
25. Hike to Penitentiary Hollow via Red Waterfront Trail
Photo: Korey Taylor
Cover photo: Kyle Obermann
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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