Top 5 Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails in Texas!

If you happen to find yourself in one of the most well-known states in the country, and you enjoy hiking, then we have the list for you! The lone-star state is one of the largest of all 50 states, and as a result, boasts a beautiful variety of wild-life and beautiful natural scenery! A perfect place to take your four-legged hiking partners for some day-hikes, or even camping! Triumph is here to bring you their top 5 pet-friendly hiking trails in the great state of Texas!

#1 - Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail (Moderate)

Barton Creek Greenbelt

14.2 mile out-and-back trail near Austin, Texas with a estimate of a little under five hours to hike the entire trail! Lots of cover for shade on hot sunny days but may be colder during the fall and winter seasons. Can be rocky and rugged so mind you and your dog’s footing! The weather near Austin can change dynamically so be aware of forecasts.

#2 - El Paso Tin Mines Trail (Hard)

Franklin Mountains State Park

A 6.6-mile hike, with an estimated time of just under 3 hours to complete! This route leads to old tin mine ruins. A popular area for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking! Expect to encounter others on the trail! Dogs may even be off leash in some areas! Open year-round and is a beautiful trail any season! Characterized as a great trail for beginners but be warned as this trail isn’t very well marked and you might end up making a few wrong turns!

#3 – Turkey Creek Trail (Easy)

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

For the casual hikers, this easy 2.7 mile out-and-back trail near Austin, Texas is a perfect choice for a quick tour into some of the natural beauty of Texas! Takes about an hour to complete and is a very popular area for hiking and running, so expect to see others on the trail! Open year-round and is a fun hike that can be enjoyed any time of the year! Mostly comprised of single-track trails, and some shady areas that offer protection from hot and sunny days! Very off leash friendly, with numerous people letting their dogs run free! Watch for days after rainfall as some parts of this trail can become muddy! Small parking lot towards the entrance, so carpooling with others is highly suggested!

#4 – Cross Timbers Hiking Trail (Moderate)

Cedar Bayou Public Use Area

Check out this 13.6-mile point-to-point trail near Gordonville, Texas. A longer trail that is estimated to take over a little 5 hours to complete! Quite the popular trail, it is used for different hobbies such as backpacking, birding, mountain biking, and even camping! Very likely to encounter other people as you explore! It boasts great views of the lake and hills and is suggested to be broken up into sections to see all that this trail has to offer! Can be as challenging as you desire, but also extremely rewarding!

#5 Good Water Trail (Moderate)

Tejas Park

A 9.8-mile hike from Tejas Park to Cedar Breaks Park, located near Georgetown, Texas. This trail travels through a variety of beautiful environments, from open grassy areas to dense forests. A relatively flat trail that also has rolling hills that allow for varying elevations to challenge hikers! Beautiful views of Lake Georgetown along the way, and many opportunities to observe wildlife in the area! Take care during the rainy weeks as the trail can become muddy after a downpour, so bring waterproof shoes is recommended! During the fall season, this hike is celebrated for its beautiful sights of the trees changing colors! Be aware as there have been sightings of snakes around the area! Take more water than you’ll need as this trail can be challenging to those that aren’t as used to the changes in elevation, but that comes with some beautiful overlooks for amazing views!