Perhaps best known as “Space City”, home to NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston is home to a diverse cultural climate and flourishing arts scene that makes the state a tantalizing example of what makes America great. On top of its vibrant cityscape and reputable name, Houston also boasts acres upon acres of lush natural scenery that is filled with endless pleasure. With a mild climate and many picturesque parks, Houston is the perfect place for a good hike, regardless if you are a beginner or an expert. If you’re trying to get back in touch with nature, then read on to discover our best hiking spots in Houston, Texas.
1. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a gigantic arboretum containing over 8 km (5 miles) of scenic hiking trails filled with lush flora and fauna. Located in Memorial Park, the non-profit organization includes several specialty gardens such as the Hummingbird & Butterfly Island. With a variety of unique wildlife to discover, the arboretum is one of the best places to reconnect with nature.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Address: 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024, United States
Website: Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Opening hours: 7am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
2. Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail
The Terry Hershey Park Hike & Bike Trail winds around the gorgeous banks of the Buffalo Bayou, offering over a whopping 16 km (10 miles) of trail. Its myriad of amenities like restrooms, playgrounds and picnic areas makes this trail the perfect place for hiking. Moreover, the trail has a large variety of terrain - flat for the beginner or steep inclines for experts. As you venture through Houston’s breathtaking landscape, be pleasantly surprised by the endless number of choices and paths available, which make the Terry Hershey Park Hike & Bike Trail fun no matter how many times you visit it.
Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail
Address: Terry Hershey Park Hike and Bike Trail, Houston, TX 77024, USA
Website: Terry Hershey Hike and Bike Trail
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Keith-Wiess Park
Keith-Weiss Park occupies a vast expanse of almost 500 acres (200 hectares) of land and it is filled with a variety of facilities that any hiker would find interesting during their visit there. The Keith-Weiss Park Loop Hiking Trail is one of the many popular trails at the park. As its name suggests, the trail follows a figure-eight shape and is roughly 3.5km (2.2 miles). All the trails are paved and rather new. With wide paths that gracefully traverse the park and weave their way through lush forests, each hike will offer a scenic pass through a range of natural landscapes and habitats while offering peace and serenity from the outside world.
Keith-Wiess Park
Address: 12300 Aldine Westfield Rd Houston, TX 77093, United States
Website: Keith-Wiess Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Trail Head Memorial Park
Set in “the largest urban park in Texas”, Trail Head Memorial Park consists of 9 routes snaking through over 1400 acres (570 hectares) of land. Ranging from narrow to wide and flat to uneven paths, the different trails are a treat for all. Besides a gorgeous Bayou, the trails pass by charming creeks, fields, railroads and even the thick lush foliage of nearby pine forests. Once finished, why not drop by the equestrian or Houston Nature Center and Arboretum for a wind-down activity?
Trail Head Memorial Park
Address: Purple Trail (Easy), Houston, TX 77007, United States
Website: Trail Head Memorial Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
5. Mayde Creek North Hike & Bike Trail
These multi-use trails snake along Mayde Creek and pass through a charming local Texan neighborhood. On the south, one will pass by the Cullen Park North Saum’s complex and Mayde Creek High School, offering a peek into the locals’ everyday lives. On the north, the trail loops towards Appletree Hill Lane. This 2.8 km (1.7-mile) trail is a relatively easy hike. Parking is available at Cullen Park though you are advised not to leave any valuables in your car in case of burglaries.
Mayde Creek North Hike & Bike Trail
Address: 18907 Morton Rd, Houston, TX 77084, United States
Website: Mayde Creek North Hike & Bike Trail
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
6. Baker Road Pocket Park Hike & Bike Trail
This flat trail passes through another quaint local neighborhood, offering a serene and peaceful hiking environment. Reconnect with nature with a stroll along its boardwalk or get some fresh air by cycling within the lanes. Quiet but unmistakably beautiful, the trail passes through plenty of verdant wooded areas and it is a hit among all.
Baker Road Pocket Park Hike & Bike Trail
Address: 368 Baker Rd, Houston, TX 77094, United States
Website: Baker Road Pocket Park Hike & Bike Trail
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
A vibrant landscape
Houston, Texas is a flourishing city with a vibrant landscape and bustling environment. For those looking to explore Houston beyond the city and bask in its glorious nature, then be sure not to miss out on our top hiking trails.
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