Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Introduction
North Texas is not a traditional hiking mecca, but the region's 6.1 million-plus residents can actually
find a wide variety of trails, from urban walks through trendy neighborhoods to rural retreats by tranquil
lakes—all within an hour's drive. This pocket guide contains nineteen easy day hikes in North Texas
ranging in length from 0.75 mile to just over 6.0 miles. These hikes cover a variety of ecosystems, from
the wide-open spaces of the blackland prairie to the wooded glens of the Cross Timbers. Area elevations
generally range from 450 to 600 feet. A few places, like Cedar Ridge Preserve southwest of Dallas,
have similar geological roots to the Texas Hill Country in and around Austin, with rocky limestone
ledges and scrubby cedar forests.
Both Dallas and Fort Worth are nestled on the banks of the Trinity River, and while the river has been
little more than a drainage ditch in some areas, cities are investing millions of dollars in projects to en-
hance their waterfronts and protect the region's vibrant floodplains—home to the nation's largest urban
hardwood forest. The region's numerous lakes, all man-made and created to supply the area's ever-
growing water demands, also provide sites for gorgeous hiking trails.
Although the Metroplex is more famous for its massive malls and sports arenas, the region is actually
home to several top-notch nature preserves that offer a much-needed escape from suburban sprawl.
Indeed it's possible to find secluded trails nestled along bubbling streams only a few hundred yards
from bustling highways. Best Easy Day Hikes Dallas/Fort Worth showcases the best of this region's re-
creational riches.
Weather
An advantage North Texas offers over northern climes is year-round hiking weather. Sure summer days
can be scorching, with temperatures routinely topping the 100-degree mark, but humidity typically
drops and nighttime temperatures fall to the upper 70s, making for pleasant evening hikes. Winters here
are generally mild, with daytime highs often topping 70 degrees, making for some of the best hiking
months of the year. Another plus for fall hiking: Trails are largely deserted on weekends as folks take in
another fall tradition—football. In winter, sudden cold fronts can move in, dipping temperatures below
freezing, but snow is rare and fleeting. Winter also offers less-crowded trails and the ability to spot bird
and squirrel nests in bare trees. Winter is the mating season for some species here, including coyotes,
which are most commonly spotted at sunrise and sunset.
Spring brings rainy weather and fast-moving fronts that can trigger straight-line winds, tornadoes,
and hail. Much of the Dallas/Fort Worth area is equipped with outdoor warning sirens that go off when
dangerous tornados and large hail are approaching. If you find yourself on the trail when a storm pops
up, head for cover if at all possible, and stay away from lone trees, lakes, and open areas.
The old North Texas saying “If you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes and it'll change” is a
reminder to be prepared for any and all types of weather when heading out for a hike. Temperatures can
drop 50 degrees or more in less than an hour, so check the weather report, and dress in layers when ap-
propriate.
Wilderness Restrictions and Regulations
