With so much land to explore, Texas sure makes it hard to decide on a hiking trail. We decided to make it a little easier by putting together an ultimate bucket list for anyone who’s obsessed with hiking. From Big Bend to the Hill Country and everywhere in-between, you’ll definitely want to embark on these adventures.

Some or all of these trails may be closed or operating under different circumstances than normal, so keep up with their websites and Facebook pages for the latest information.

AllTrails/Johnnie D.

Beginning at the RV section of Pine Springs Campground, this difficult, 8.1-mile hike ascends nearly 9,000 feet to the highest point in Texas: Guadalupe Peak. It’s an out-and-back trail that takes 6-8 hours to complete, so consider spending the night at the backcountry campground near the summit. This scenic overlook, known as El Capitan, offers striking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape – just don’t get too close to the edge! More information here.

AllTrails/Darcy Jackson Stephens

Arguably the most famous trail in Big Bend, Lost Mine is a 4.2-mile hike that showcases the incredible diversity of flora and fauna in the park. Thick juniper, oak, pine groves, and wildflowers line the path, and just one mile in, a saddle offers sweeping canyon views. At the end of the trail, a ridge looks out over Pine Canyon and the Sierra del Carmen in Mexico. More information here.

AllTrails/D Beasley

Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of the most popular Austin-area outdoor recreation spots, and it’s easy to understand why. This enchanting woodland oasis features hiking trails, rocks, and pristine water perfect for swimming. This particular trail is just under four miles long, and with an elevation that’s less than 150 feet, it’s accessible to most people. More information here.

Flickr/Tycho Moon

Possibly the most iconic landmark in Big Bend, Santa Elena Canyon is a true natural wonder. The trail to access it is short-and-sweet at only 1.5 miles. You’ll begin where Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive ends, before crossing Terlingua Creek, climbing several switchbacks and gradually descending along the banks of the Rio Grande. Along the way, lush greenery and 1,500-foot-tall limestone rock walls create a truly breathtaking spectacle. There’s even a beach where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a picnic lunch. More information here.

AllTrails/Diane Peterson

A hidden gem in Plano, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve offers a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The mountain bike trail is only 2.5 miles long but manages to pack in a variety of different elements such as thick forestry, hills, boardwalks, beautiful wildflowers, and a creek. The signs can be a little confusing, so study the park map before setting off. More information here.

AllTrails/Gary Tindall

Among the most popular attractions in Texas, Enchanted Rock is the largest pink granite dome of its kind in the country. The 1.3-mile summit trail only has an elevation gain of ~400 feet, but views like this make it seem much higher. You can practically see the entire Hill Country from up here. More information here.

AllTrails/Joey Ramon

AllTrails/Chris Frizzell

Enter a jungle-like oasis on this relatively easy, 7.7-mile hike in Cedar Breaks Park. The terrain encompasses everything from tree tunnels to mossy rock outcroppings, ensuring an adventure full of surprises. You’ll encounter the falls about 2.5 miles in, surrounded by lush tropical greenery, and gently cascading into the water below. More information here.

AllTrails/Tim Shaughnessy

In the Austin suburb of Marble Falls, Balcones Canyonlands is reminiscent of a remote African savannah. Embark on the Indiangrass Trail for a moderately difficult, 3.6-mile hike that showcases some of the best views in the entire refuge. Cacti, vibrant flowers, woodland terrain, a waterfall, and sweeping panoramic vistas are just some of the major highlights. More information here.

AllTrails/Matt Lockridge

Okay, scratch what we said earlier – The Window might actually be the most popular trail in Big Bend. It’s among the most famed hikes in the park, clocking in at 5.2 miles long, and begins at the Chisos Basin Lodge. Prepare to descend through undulating hills and towering canyon walls before coming to this iconic, breathtaking vista. Don’t forget your camera! More information here.

AllTrails/Mike Folks

During the spring, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better trail than this. At 6.7 miles, the loop is rife with eye-popping bluebonnets on either side of the path, creating a whimsical wonderland that’s sure to leave you breathless. More information here.

Flickr/Inga Munsinger Cotton

One of the most popular fall outdoor destinations in Texas, Lost Maples State Natural Area is an enchanting woodland escape that features some of the most vibrant golden, amber, and deep red foliage you’ve ever seen. This particular trail also boasts water crossings, an elaborate and otherworldly grotto, scenic overlooks, and more. More information here.

Flickr/Roy Luck

A large portion of people who visit Palo Duro Canyon do so for this trail. It’s 5.7 miles long and doesn’t require much effort until the very end. Scrambling up to the lighthouse formation is entirely worth the effort, but make sure to bring plenty of water. More information here.

How many of these hikes have you checked off your bucket list? Did we miss your favorite trail? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about Santa Elena Canyon: Kayak Through Santa Elena Canyon to Experience The West Texas Mountains In A Whole New Way.

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Address: Lost Mine Trail, Texas 79834, USAAddress: Lighthouse Trail, Canyon, TX 79015, USAAddress: Guadalupe Peak Trail, Texas 79847, USAAddress: Lost Maples State Natural Area, 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, USAAddress: 3918 S MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78746, USAAddress: Santa Elena Canyon Trail, Texas 79852, USAAddress: Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, 6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093, USAAddress: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USAAddress: 2100 Cedar Breaks Rd, Georgetown, TX 78633, USAAddress: Gorman Falls Trail, Lometa, TX 76853, USAAddress: Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, 24518 Ranch Rd 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USAAddress: The Window, Texas 79834, USAAddress: McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247, USA