Best of 22 kid-friendly hiking trails in Dallas
Discover the joy of family-friendly hiking with kid-friendly trails in Dallas. These trails provide a safe and engaging environment for children to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors. With options like White Rock Lake Park, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, Trinity Forest Trail, Katie Jackson Park, and Turtle Creek Parkway Park, there's a trail for every family to enjoy.
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- 1. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
- 2. Cypress Waters Trail
- 3. Big Cedar Wilderness Trail
- 4. Preston Ridge Trail
- 5. Walking Trails at White Rock
- 6. Santa Fe Trail
- 7. White Rock Lake Park
- 8. Trinity Skyline Trail
- 9. White Rock Creek Greenbelt
- 10. Trinity Forest Trail
- 11. White Rock Creek Trail
- 12. Runyon Creek Trail at UNT Dallas
- 13. Katie Jackson Park
- 14. Twelve Hills Nature Center
- 15. Great Trinity Forest Gateway And Horse Trail
- 16. Watercrest Park
- 17. Piedmont Ridge Trail
- 18. White Rock Lake - SoPac Trailhead
- 19. Turtle Creek Parkway Park
- 20. Boulder Park Trail
- 21. Bachman Creek Greenbelt
- 22. Coombs Creek Trail
1. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Dog-friendly and free admission
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Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is a green space that caters to kids who are interested in hiking without the need for camping. The preserve features six trails that vary in length from 1 mile to 2.25 miles, offering a range of options for hikers of different skill levels. In total, the dirt trails add up to around 8 miles, providing plenty of opportunities to explore the preserve's 121 acres.
This nature preserve is an excellent choice for families seeking an authentic hiking experience for their children. The preserve's trails offer a taste of the great outdoors, with the added convenience of being located in an urban area. Whether visitors want to take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve has something to offer.
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is a green space that caters to kids who are interested in hiking without the need for camping. The preserve features six trails that vary in length from 1 mile to 2.25 miles, offering a range of options for hikers of different skill levels. In total, the dirt trails add up to around 8 miles, providing plenty of opportunities to explore the preserve's 121 acres.
This nature preserve is an excellent choice for families seeking an authentic hiking experience for their children. The preserve's trails offer a taste of the great outdoors, with the added convenience of being located in an urban area. Whether visitors want to take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve has something to offer.
2. Cypress Waters Trail
3. Big Cedar Wilderness Trail
Dog-friendly trails
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The trails are privately maintained but open to the public, with a suggested waiver to support their upkeep. These trails are suitable for both biking and walking, offering various difficulty levels to accommodate different experiences. The trail habitat is teeming with wildlife, including rabbits, tarantulas, spider webs, and snakes.
During the week, the trails are ideal for walking, while they also serve as a sizable area maintained by the Dallas Off Road Biking Association (DORBA) for mountain bikers. Pedestrians can use the trails as well, as long as they yield to cyclists. The trails present varying levels of difficulty and are considered the best in the DFW area; therefore, it's recommended to bring water and a compass for an enjoyable experience.
The trails are privately maintained but open to the public, with a suggested waiver to support their upkeep. These trails are suitable for both biking and walking, offering various difficulty levels to accommodate different experiences. The trail habitat is teeming with wildlife, including rabbits, tarantulas, spider webs, and snakes.
During the week, the trails are ideal for walking, while they also serve as a sizable area maintained by the Dallas Off Road Biking Association (DORBA) for mountain bikers. Pedestrians can use the trails as well, as long as they yield to cyclists. The trails present varying levels of difficulty and are considered the best in the DFW area; therefore, it's recommended to bring water and a compass for an enjoyable experience.
4. Preston Ridge Trail
connects to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)
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The Preston Ridge Trail is a popular spot for families and children to ride their bikes. The trail is well-maintained and has two lanes, making it safe and enjoyable for all users. It is a multi-use trail, so visitors can expect to see a variety of people including runners, cyclists, and families out for a walk with their strollers. The trail is located in North Dallas and is a convenient option for those looking to get some fresh air and exercise.
The Preston Ridge Trail is a common suburban multi-use trail that attracts a mix of outdoor enthusiasts. It is easily accessible for those living in North Dallas and offers a scenic and well-maintained route for runners, cyclists, and families. The trail sees a lot of traffic, particularly on weekends, making it a great place to be active and enjoy the outdoors. Overall, the Preston Ridge Trail is a popular destination for those looking for a convenient and enjoyable way to get some exercise in a beautiful setting.
The Preston Ridge Trail is a popular spot for families and children to ride their bikes. The trail is well-maintained and has two lanes, making it safe and enjoyable for all users. It is a multi-use trail, so visitors can expect to see a variety of people including runners, cyclists, and families out for a walk with their strollers. The trail is located in North Dallas and is a convenient option for those looking to get some fresh air and exercise.
The Preston Ridge Trail is a common suburban multi-use trail that attracts a mix of outdoor enthusiasts. It is easily accessible for those living in North Dallas and offers a scenic and well-maintained route for runners, cyclists, and families. The trail sees a lot of traffic, particularly on weekends, making it a great place to be active and enjoy the outdoors. Overall, the Preston Ridge Trail is a popular destination for those looking for a convenient and enjoyable way to get some exercise in a beautiful setting.
5. Walking Trails at White Rock
️ Whiterock Parking, 2121 Winsted Dr, Dallas, TX 75214 Opening Hours Sunday: Open 24 hours Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours My recent adventure at Walking Trails at White Rock in Dallas was an absolute delight! The well-marked trails and stunning views of the sparkling lake made every step feel like a dance. Nature lovers will be delighted by the variety of flora and fauna along the way. Don't forget your camera! You may also want to visit the best bookstores in Dallas.
6. Santa Fe Trail
Connects to other historic trails
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The Santa Fe Trail in Dallas is a popular route for cycling and walking, spanning from White Rock Lake to the edge of Deep Ellum and Fair Park. This trail is a great connector for the lake and the entertainment district, providing a green belt with gentle slopes and a waterfront path. It is commonly used by people of all ages, including bicyclists, runners, walkers, and commuters.
I personally use this trail a lot and appreciate it as a medium for exercise, as well as a safe trail to travel and enjoy the beautiful Dallas weather. It's a great way to walk to area restaurants and entertainment, allowing for a scenic and enjoyable journey. Whether you're looking to get some fresh air, exercise, or simply enjoy the outdoors, the Santa Fe Trail is a fantastic option.
The Santa Fe Trail in Dallas is a popular route for cycling and walking, spanning from White Rock Lake to the edge of Deep Ellum and Fair Park. This trail is a great connector for the lake and the entertainment district, providing a green belt with gentle slopes and a waterfront path. It is commonly used by people of all ages, including bicyclists, runners, walkers, and commuters.
I personally use this trail a lot and appreciate it as a medium for exercise, as well as a safe trail to travel and enjoy the beautiful Dallas weather. It's a great way to walk to area restaurants and entertainment, allowing for a scenic and enjoyable journey. Whether you're looking to get some fresh air, exercise, or simply enjoy the outdoors, the Santa Fe Trail is a fantastic option.
7. White Rock Lake Park
Popular spot for outdoor activities and picnics
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White Rock Lake Park in Dallas, Texas offers great trails, a dog park, and opportunities for kayaking. The main pedestrian and cycling path around the lake is paved, peaceful, and suitable for families. However, visitors should be aware of bike riders sharing the trail. There are also older, unmaintained walking pathways that branch off from the main trail.
Kayaking is a popular activity at the lake, and kayaks can be rented from nearby rental facilities. The park also features a dog park, which is a great spot for dogs to run and play off-leash. It is important to note that the walking trails, while nice, may not be well-maintained in certain areas. Visitors should use caution and be mindful of bike traffic while using the trails.
White Rock Lake Park in Dallas, Texas offers great trails, a dog park, and opportunities for kayaking. The main pedestrian and cycling path around the lake is paved, peaceful, and suitable for families. However, visitors should be aware of bike riders sharing the trail. There are also older, unmaintained walking pathways that branch off from the main trail.
Kayaking is a popular activity at the lake, and kayaks can be rented from nearby rental facilities. The park also features a dog park, which is a great spot for dogs to run and play off-leash. It is important to note that the walking trails, while nice, may not be well-maintained in certain areas. Visitors should use caution and be mindful of bike traffic while using the trails.
8. Trinity Skyline Trail
Dog-friendly trail
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Walking on the bridge trail around evening time is a pleasant activity, providing a good view of the skyline. The trail is popular and often filled with people and families. Exploring the Trinity Skyline Trail or Levee Trails offers a unique perspective of Downtown Dallas and the Trinity River, allowing for beautiful views of the surrounding areas.
The trails provide an opportunity to see a different side of the city, distinct from the usual views. Being at the trail and looking up at the skyline or down at the river provides a memorable experience. It is recommended to be prepared for a different view and experience when exploring the Trinity Skyline Trail or Levee Trails, whether it's with comfortable shoes or a willingness to explore.
Walking on the bridge trail around evening time is a pleasant activity, providing a good view of the skyline. The trail is popular and often filled with people and families. Exploring the Trinity Skyline Trail or Levee Trails offers a unique perspective of Downtown Dallas and the Trinity River, allowing for beautiful views of the surrounding areas.
The trails provide an opportunity to see a different side of the city, distinct from the usual views. Being at the trail and looking up at the skyline or down at the river provides a memorable experience. It is recommended to be prepared for a different view and experience when exploring the Trinity Skyline Trail or Levee Trails, whether it's with comfortable shoes or a willingness to explore.
9. White Rock Creek Greenbelt
Scenic bike rides, peaceful atmosphere
10. Trinity Forest Trail
Paved trail for biking, walking, running
Experience the thrill of the great outdoors at Trinity Forest Trail Parking Lot, a dog-friendly 16.8-mile running trail in the heart of Dallas. Imagine cruising down the trail with your furry friend, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. The well-maintained path offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect spot for a family adventure. For a more intimate encounter with nature, head over to the Trinity River Audubon Center. With seven different trails ranging from 0.25 to 0.75 miles, you'll be spoilt for choice. Each trail offers a unique adventure near rivers and ponds, through forests and grasslands, perfect for birdwatching or simply taking in the serene sounds of nature. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
I still remember the time I went biking here with my extended family (10 of us!). We pedalled for 13 miles and couldn't get enough of the stunning views and fresh air. The trail was sparkling clean, not crowded, and well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. I also had the pleasure of visiting this site back in 2012 (under its previous name, Joppa Preserve). I recall seeking out this hidden gem to find some red ibis, and boy, did I find them! If you love birdwatching, this trail is an absolute must-visit.
I still remember the time I went biking here with my extended family (10 of us!). We pedalled for 13 miles and couldn't get enough of the stunning views and fresh air. The trail was sparkling clean, not crowded, and well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. I also had the pleasure of visiting this site back in 2012 (under its previous name, Joppa Preserve). I recall seeking out this hidden gem to find some red ibis, and boy, did I find them! If you love birdwatching, this trail is an absolute must-visit.
11. White Rock Creek Trail
Wildlife watching opportunities
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White Rock Creek Trail is an excellent choice for families with children, as it is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and young children. The trail offers plenty of shade and scenic views, making the journey enjoyable for all ages. It is part of the best paved trail system in Dallas and is heavily used, providing a safe and scenic environment for walking, jogging, or biking with kids.
This trail follows a greenbelt, which adds to its appeal and provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for families. Its proximity to White Rock Creek adds to the natural beauty of the trail, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities. The trail is perfect for those looking for a family-friendly activity that allows for exercise and enjoyment of nature. Overall, White Rock Creek Trail is a fantastic option for families with kids who are looking for a fun and accessible way to enjoy the outdoors.
White Rock Creek Trail is an excellent choice for families with children, as it is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and young children. The trail offers plenty of shade and scenic views, making the journey enjoyable for all ages. It is part of the best paved trail system in Dallas and is heavily used, providing a safe and scenic environment for walking, jogging, or biking with kids.
This trail follows a greenbelt, which adds to its appeal and provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for families. Its proximity to White Rock Creek adds to the natural beauty of the trail, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities. The trail is perfect for those looking for a family-friendly activity that allows for exercise and enjoyment of nature. Overall, White Rock Creek Trail is a fantastic option for families with kids who are looking for a fun and accessible way to enjoy the outdoors.
12. Runyon Creek Trail at UNT Dallas
13. Katie Jackson Park
Scenic views of Bachman Lake
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Katie Jackson Park features a family-friendly route that circles the park's perimeter, offering various amenities and picturesque viewpoints. The trail is designed for multi-use and can accommodate both bicycles and pedestrians.
The ideal time to explore this trail is between March and October. Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. The trail is suitable for children and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Katie Jackson Park features a family-friendly route that circles the park's perimeter, offering various amenities and picturesque viewpoints. The trail is designed for multi-use and can accommodate both bicycles and pedestrians.
The ideal time to explore this trail is between March and October. Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. The trail is suitable for children and is a great spot for birdwatching.
14. Twelve Hills Nature Center
Dog-friendly trails, free admission
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A lovely, secluded trail waits for those seeking a peaceful getaway or a quiet picnic spot. The trail features charming areas, perfect for a break from busy schedules. However, it is essential to bring something to sit on, as the ground can be dirty.
A lovely, secluded trail waits for those seeking a peaceful getaway or a quiet picnic spot. The trail features charming areas, perfect for a break from busy schedules. However, it is essential to bring something to sit on, as the ground can be dirty.
15. Great Trinity Forest Gateway And Horse Trail
Historic sites and ancient trees
16. Watercrest Park
17. Piedmont Ridge Trail
Piedmont Ridge Trails, a 1.5-mile gem, offers breathtaking views, particularly in autumn when the foliage dazzles. The Overlook provides a stunning panorama of the city and surrounding trees. However, my son and I had an unexpected encounter with a pack of coyotes, which elevated our heart rates.
Despite the momentary scare, we thoroughly enjoyed the hike. The trail boasts lovely inclines, minimal litter, and a tranquil setting tucked away from the road. The photos and reviews we consulted ahead of time proved invaluable for locating this hidden gem. I highly recommend this delightful little trail for families who enjoy immersing themselves in nature.
Despite the momentary scare, we thoroughly enjoyed the hike. The trail boasts lovely inclines, minimal litter, and a tranquil setting tucked away from the road. The photos and reviews we consulted ahead of time proved invaluable for locating this hidden gem. I highly recommend this delightful little trail for families who enjoy immersing themselves in nature.
18. White Rock Lake - SoPac Trailhead
19. Turtle Creek Parkway Park
Dog-friendly areas, free admission
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I recently visited an amazing place that is small but well worth the time. My kids absolutely loved it there. One of the highlights of our visit was the opportunity to feed stingrays for $5 per person. They seemed to get pretty excited when it was feeding time! Another activity that we enjoyed was getting our hands cleaned by fish in a touch pool.
On a separate occasion, I walked to a beautiful park in Dallas on a Sunday. The park was surprisingly empty, making it the perfect retreat in the middle of the city. The park features long sidewalks that follow a creek, providing a peaceful and scenic setting. During our visit, we saw children fishing and looking for turtles. One child even showed us the turtle they found. It was such a quiet and lovely experience.
I recently visited an amazing place that is small but well worth the time. My kids absolutely loved it there. One of the highlights of our visit was the opportunity to feed stingrays for $5 per person. They seemed to get pretty excited when it was feeding time! Another activity that we enjoyed was getting our hands cleaned by fish in a touch pool.
On a separate occasion, I walked to a beautiful park in Dallas on a Sunday. The park was surprisingly empty, making it the perfect retreat in the middle of the city. The park features long sidewalks that follow a creek, providing a peaceful and scenic setting. During our visit, we saw children fishing and looking for turtles. One child even showed us the turtle they found. It was such a quiet and lovely experience.
20. Boulder Park Trail
Dogs allowed on leash, free admission
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The BLUE trail is a suitable option for families looking for a friendly and moderate hiking experience, as it bypasses the more challenging sections. This trail is specifically designed to cater to the needs of all family members, making it a great spot for a family outing.
The Boulder Trail features a BLUE loop that is perfect for families, as it avoids the more difficult parts of the trail. This loop is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy the beauty of nature without having to navigate through tough terrain. Overall, the Boulder Trail is a fantastic destination for families seeking a pleasant and enjoyable hiking experience.
The BLUE trail is a suitable option for families looking for a friendly and moderate hiking experience, as it bypasses the more challenging sections. This trail is specifically designed to cater to the needs of all family members, making it a great spot for a family outing.
The Boulder Trail features a BLUE loop that is perfect for families, as it avoids the more difficult parts of the trail. This loop is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy the beauty of nature without having to navigate through tough terrain. Overall, the Boulder Trail is a fantastic destination for families seeking a pleasant and enjoyable hiking experience.
21. Bachman Creek Greenbelt
22. Coombs Creek Trail
Scenic views of the Dallas skyline
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Coombs Creek Trail is a paved path that runs alongside Coombs Creek and Stevens Park Golf Course, offering a partially shaded route with small parks and interesting art installations along the way. The metal tree climbers are a particular attraction, making it a fun and engaging experience for kids and adults alike. This stroller-friendly trail is great for running, walking, and biking, providing a scenic and accessible option for exercise and leisure.
However, the trail does have some limitations. Currently, it ends in a golf field, which can be frustrating for those hoping to access the park itself. Despite this, the trail's potential is evident, and there are plans to connect it to Trinity Gloves Park in the future. Overall, Coombs Creek Trail is a positive addition to the community, offering a kid-friendly and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Coombs Creek Trail is a paved path that runs alongside Coombs Creek and Stevens Park Golf Course, offering a partially shaded route with small parks and interesting art installations along the way. The metal tree climbers are a particular attraction, making it a fun and engaging experience for kids and adults alike. This stroller-friendly trail is great for running, walking, and biking, providing a scenic and accessible option for exercise and leisure.
However, the trail does have some limitations. Currently, it ends in a golf field, which can be frustrating for those hoping to access the park itself. Despite this, the trail's potential is evident, and there are plans to connect it to Trinity Gloves Park in the future. Overall, Coombs Creek Trail is a positive addition to the community, offering a kid-friendly and enjoyable outdoor experience.