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If you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation destination, look beyond Houston, Texas! This vibrant city has something to offer for everyone, from exciting outdoor activities to world-class dining and entertainment. So whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep busy in Houston.
In terms of food, Houston is known for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. And if you don’t want to miss out on a truly unique street food experience, you’ll want to check out some of the city’s famous food trucks.
There’s no doubt that Houston is a sprawling, car-centric city. But if you know the right place to look, there are plenty of fantastic hiking trails and spots around the city to explore.
From the outer loop trails in Memorial Park to the hidden gems in Buffalo Bayou Park, these 20 best hikes in Houston will have you covered for an afternoon or a full day of outdoor adventure. So lace up your boots and check out this list to plan your next adventure:
The landscape of Bastrop State Park has been scorched by fire and flooded time after time. However, the breathtaking views here are enough to leave your mouth agape. The terrain consists mainly of tree stalks dotted with tropical ferns and other unique plant species.
Hike through the park, or challenge yourself on one of the longer trails. You’ll find short hiking routes with two historic cart paths that span 5 miles each for beginners looking to get started quickly. There are also several cabins available where you can stay overnight.
Hike through the quiet forest paths of this park to find woodpeckers calling their home. Listen closely, and you may be able to spot them. The beautiful Lake Livingston shoreline makes for excellent hiking while giving your eyes plenty of time to admire the natural beauty around every corner.
Lake Livingston State Park is the perfect weekend getaway for anyone looking to escape Houston’s busy life. This peaceful, forested lake and 6 miles worth of hiking near Houston, TX, make this an excellent choice.
The breathtaking views of nature in this state park make this one of the most worthy day hikes near Houston. You’ll never be tired of exploring the many different types and amounts of wildlife you can find in this area.
Hike, bike, or explore the Brazos Bend State Park trails with many designated hikes. There are 37 miles of navigable paths and a 40-acre lake trail!
Head to the Lake Houston Wilderness Park for a relaxing weekend getaway from Houston. The 4,000+ acre wilderness area has plenty of trails and activities available. Wildlife watching is widespread, and kayaking trips and camping spots are also available. The 9.6-mile-long Ameri Trail Forest Loop is one of the most popular trails because it passes by a beautiful lake.
The White Oak Bayou Trail is one of the most tranquil spots in Houston, Texas. The 17-mile-long continuous path spans some beautiful areas near Rice Military Airport and The Heights.
The trails on White Oak Bayou present a unique atmosphere for runners and bikers alike. The pavement means you can enjoy a scenic run without getting too sweaty, but bring plenty of water because you won’t find many fountain outlets.
Located in the Memorial Park area, Houston Arboretum is one of Houston’s most underrated and beautiful spots for hiking (and just enjoying nature); there are 5 miles worth of trails that connect this park with its surrounding areas. You can choose from a birding path, wildflower trail, or take it easy on one specific route. The longest connecting path stretches 1 mile around it, ensuring you can find several local plant species.
The stunning views of Houston’s skyline from Buffalo Bayou Park are one reason it has been such a popular destination for years. There’s something so relaxing about getting out in nature and exploring new areas while taking time to appreciate our surroundings. If you’re looking for some fresh air, one of these three trails near Houston would be perfect for you.
There’s a 4-mile loop popular with runners, bikers, and hikers; it has ample greenery along the way so that you won’t be bored. Additionally, one fifteen-mile section passes through several other parks before ending at Buffalo Bayou Park.
Memorial is a family-friendly, quiet neighborhood that offers large homes and corporate facilities. However, it’s home to many people who work in downtown Houston. One of its most famous sights is Memorial park’s gravel pathways.
When you walk through this park, it feels like a continuation of your backyard. There are plenty of trails for hiking and biking to keep people interested while also finding friendly neighbors that enjoy playing games together.
The Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail is a local favorite with over 10 miles of tracks making this one of the best walking trails in Houston. This hiking/running path has something for everyone who wants to get out without going outside the city limits. The tracks are easy on your feet, with plenty of room for you along their length.
Hiking and wildlife watching at the Armand Bayou Nature Center is a great way to get outside with your family while learning about nature. The center offers 5 miles of trails, perfect for different levels of hiking enthusiasts who want an immersive experience in Houston’s natural environment.
Guided hikes and tours are offered at the center, including a bat hike to see local species flying through the sky.
Hike Galveston is a must-see for any nature lover! With 15 miles of trails, you’re sure to spot wildlife, including herons and pelicans. The park also has easy access from Houston, so it’s perfect if your travel plans bring you here. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are also several paddling sites where canoes/ kayaks await those who want some water time.
You can find a deep, shady forest full of mossy trees outside Houston in the Sam Houston National Forest. This forest landscape is 50 miles north and provides quiet tranquility for those looking to escape city life while enjoying an outdoor adventure.
Hikers can enjoy the Lone Star Hiking Trail, 128 miles long, and pass through piney woods, if you’re looking for something shorter but just as scenic (or more adventurous!), there’s also a kayaking spot near Lake Conroe that will fit your needs perfectly.
The journey to this eco-friendly campsite may be short, but it’s worth every step. Imagine coming face-to-face with an old Texas Champion Live Oak over 300 years old! Only 1 mile long and surrounded by nature – what could make your camping experience more memorable?
Stephen F. Austin Park is a historic site for history buffs, as it was here that the original Anglo-American colony in Texas took root. With 5 miles of short and easy trails through forests along riverbanks – perfect if you have kids or want an hour-long walk without having too much difficulty getting there.
The forested sanctuary of Big Thicket Park is home to lots of local wildlife and unique plant life. You can see carnivorous marsh plants, turtles, or alligators amidst the tropical terrain that makes up much (though not entirely) of this expansive 84000 acres park.
Here, you can hike through one of the most biodiverse areas worldwide. With 40 miles worth of trails ranging from 0.3-18 mile longs, you will find your perfect hike.
Hike through Dwight D. Eisenhower Park, and you might spot a deer or two, depending on when in the season it is. The 3-mile San Jacinto Trail Loop has an easy path paved with grassy areas to walk along the way–perfect for those who want their feet wet without getting too sweaty from being outdoors all day long.
Hiking Area has some great hiking places in Houston that are perfect for solo travelers or couples with dogs. The area is tranquil, the trees on these paths provide easy navigation, and there’s plenty of wildlife. Hiking Area is an excellent spot for nature lovers who want to get away from the hustle and bustles of city life. You can also expect an abundance of animal species, making this one of Houston’s best hiking places.
There are three miles of bike trails at this preserve in The Woodlands. In addition, you can take a two-mile hike through wetlands, bottomland, and forest on your way there! To get the Texas experience make sure you access it from Flintridge Drive Trailhead, located just outside Indian Springs village, or use one of its other five “rustic” routes.
There is something here for everyone, from freshwater marshland and saltwater ponds to coastal prairie with rare bluestem grasses. The driving tours take visitors around large naturalistic scenes like lonely bays where ducks can be seen breaking water. The 44,413 acres of this trail are a sight to behold.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, cyclist, or just looking for fresh air and exercise, W.G Jones State Forest has covered you. With miles of trails to explore, you’re sure to find something that suits your fitness level and interests. So whether you’re looking for a stroll or a challenging hike, the forest has something for everyone.
Whether you want to explore nature or get your heart rate up on a challenging trail, one of these 20 hikes in Houston will meet your needs. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy everything Houston has to offer!
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April 3, 2024 
