Best hiking trails in Houston

Many people living in Houston City might think it’s a huge industrial place in Texas. While that stereotype is arguably true! But there are also some amazing hidden spots to find nature around in the city. If you look hard enough there are several places to go hiking around the city.

It’s hard to research and find out about these places. So, we did the hard work and compiled a list of the best Houston hiking trails that will speak to your soul if you love hiking. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s start hiking!

Best Hiking Trails in Houston- Where Can I Go Near the City?

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#1 Lake Houston wilderness park

If you are looking for a simple and picturesque gateway from Houston then this is the best place to go. It is an almost 5000+ acreage area with wilderness and lots of trails to hike and lots of activities to try.

You will encounter wildlife, you can do kayaking, and camping there. You can explore several miles of gravel trails as well. It can be perfect for hiking or camping on the weekends.

Lake Houston wilderness park is an amazing place to escape the city hustle. If you are looking for a hike or camping in Houston it’s a beautiful place you can put into your list.

#2 Houston Arboretum

Houston Arboretum is maybe one of the most underrated but beautiful hiking spots in Houston. It is located in Memorial park. Five miles of walking trails through forest, meadow, and pond habitats that offer you the opportunities to see frogs, turtles, and other wildlife.

There you can find several local plant species and birds as well. You can hike through many different trails in the area, including a birding trail, a wildflower trail, and many more forested, shady paths.  

For a short time, the adventure can be the best option for you. You will enjoy the wildlife and hiking altogether in a very short period of time.

#3 Memorial Park

Memorial park is a very quiet and family-friendly place to visit. It is filled with gravel pathways that are a popular hiking trail with Houston inhabitants. In this park, you will see gravel paths and wooded areas characterize the park’s 2.88 miles loop trail.

In the evening and weekends, you will see the locals hiking, biking, playing games with their loved ones. It’s such a lovely place you will get to watch birds of colorful hues and various sizes. 

If you are that individual who loves hiking, being involved with nature through nature trips then you are going to love Memorial park I can assure you that.

#4 White Oak Bayou trail

The white oak bayou is one of the longest continuous trails in Houston. Its trail extends nearly 17 miles through some of the most beautiful areas of Houston. This is a very quiet and peaceful place where you can hike or run. You will see walkers and hikers alongside you. It’s a great place for hiking and walking into nature. 

If you are into biking you are going to love this trail. Its main attraction is the biking trail. You can also train yourself there.

#5 Buffalo Bayou Park

It’s a perfect spot for hiking in Houston where the park is filled with industrial bridges, tons of trees and plants, and the flowing Buffalo Bayou. There is a loop in the park that’s famous for runners, bikers, and hikers. 

If you are up for a long hike you won’t be disappointed with Buffalo Bayou Park. Because it passes through a handful of other parks, forested areas, and waterways. It’s an amazing adventure through nature.

#6 Terry Hershey Hiking Trail

Terry Hershey Hiking Trail is situated in the green wooded neighborhood of memorial. The locals love terry Hershey hiking and biking trails. The hiking and running paths are perfect for those who want to get out of the downtown areas without going too far outside of the city.

For a day hike, it’s a perfect destination. When walking in astounding paved paths the tree cover provides shade from the hot Houston sun.

It’s an amazing place where you can go with your family and friends and have a good time with the mighty nature. You can also take your bike and enjoy the bike trail; trust me it is going to feel damn good.

#7 Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos bend is the hub of wildlife. It is one of the coolest and most beautiful state parks in Houston city. You will be astonished to see the wide variety of wildlife there. You will get to see various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

There are 37 miles of trails in Brazos Bend State Park, with several designated hikes around the premises where you will find the best hikes in Houston. 

This amazing park offers you the best hike and the best wildlife you would want from a park. 

#8 Armand Bayou Nature Center

Houston’s Armand Bayou Nature Center is a wonderful spot for hiking, wildlife watching. It is fun and an immersive experience in nature. This center is home to over 350+ species of local wildlife. You can enjoy the view from one of its five miles of trails and hiking areas.

It’s a great place for avid hikers who enjoy wildlife and bird spotting. Apart from hiking you can do other activities also and have fun with family and friends. 

The center offers guided hikes and tours of its grounds, and also a bat hike to see local bat species flying through the sky. The admission is $6 per adult, with discounts for kids and seniors. 

Conclusion:

Who doesn’t love an escape from the city hassle? To forget all the pressure, workload, nature is the only place you can go. We have found the 8 best hiking trails in Houston where you can go hiking and freshen your mind.

These are some amazing places filled with wildlife and different hiking trails. You can visit these places with friends and family, do activities you love, and have an amazing time.