From mountains to fields of wildflowers to swimming holes with gorgeous waterfalls, these are the 5 best hikes in Texas to add to your bucket list.
1. South Rim Trail in Big Bend National Park
South Rim Trail in Big Bend National Park is an ~11 mile scenic hike that winds through the Chisos Mountains along trails lined with juniper trees and vibrant fuchsia prickly pear cacti. The trail leads to the South Rim, an incredible overlook with expansive views across the Texas and Mexico landscape.
In addition to the South Rim Trail, there are several other great trails to add to your Big Bend itinerary. Take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to Santa Elena Canyon and hike along the Rio Grande River. Then, end your day with a colorful sunset at the iconic “Window.”
While in Big Bend, don’t forget to look up! Big Bend National Park is one of the best stargazing destinations in the world. The dark skies sparkle with thousands of stars, and the Milky Way can be seen with the naked eye.
2. Guadalupe Peak in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
In the midst of the flat plains stands the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. Hike to the “Top of Texas” for vast views across the Chihuahuan Desert. This 8.4 mile roundtrip hike with 3,000 feet in elevation gain is a workout, but the sweeping views at the peak are worth the grind.
If you’re in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in October or November, be sure to check out McKittrick Canyon Trail to see fall foliage! Although Texas isn’t typically known for it’s fall colors, the fall colors are spectacular here! The canyon changes to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold this time of year.
3. Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool is a gorgeous oasis in Texas Hill Country. Pack your bathing suit, hike a short 1/4 mile trail to the pool, and take a refreshing swim beneath this stunning waterfall. Reservations are required.
4. Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon carves deep into the plains of the Texas panhandle, bringing a taste of Arizona’s Grand Canyon to the Lone Star State. Take Palo Duro’s 5.7 mile Lighthouse Trail to a red rock monolith shaped like…you guessed it, a lighthouse! For extraordinary views, scramble up to the base of the Lighthouse.
5. Ennis Bluebonnet Trail
Each spring in Ennis, Texas, the wildflowers bloom into a spectacular display of vibrant colors. Head about 1 hour south of Dallas-Fort Worth to see fields of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes along the Ennis Bluebonnet Trail. Although the Ennis Bluebonnet Trail is more of a scenic drive than a hike, we couldn’t help but add it to our best hikes in Texas list. This incredible display of natural beauty is not to be missed!