Hiking North Texas

Our weather in North Texas is anything but predictable.  Although many people find this annoying, we are actually really fortunate to boast of so many unseasonably warm days during the winter months.  I was reminded of this recently when up popped a year-old ‘memory’ on my Facebook feed.  It was a photo of my family and me at the zoo last December, and I’m wearing a sleeveless shirt and sunglasses.  We are sure to have to endure some dreary and cold, even freezing weeks this winter, but we can also expect the occasional heatwave.  Here are a few gorgeous family-friendly hikes close to home that are sure to help you take advantage of those beautiful days ahead.

Eagle Mountain Park

11601 Morris Dido Newark Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76179

This park is 400 acres of protected natural green space with an amazing overlook of Eagle Mountain Lake.  There are plenty of easy to moderate hiking trails, picnic areas, and restrooms.  No bikes or dogs are allowed in the park, but it is well-maintained and free!  There are also some pretty cool historic structures on the property that are fun to explore and take pictures of.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76135

This huge park has 20 miles of hiking trails suitable for any ability level.  What’s great about this park is that you can observe all kinds of wildlife, including buffalo.  They also have a small nature center and aquarium.  Keep up with their calendar for events, educational hikes, and the canoe launching status.  Entry is $5 for adults and $2 for children.

Oakmont Park

7000 Bellaire Dr S, Fort Worth, TX 76132

This small, clean park has paved walking trails, green fields, restroom facilities, a nice little playground, and picnic area.  The creeks are fun to explore, and the beautiful bridges are great for pictures.  The trail connects to Clear Fork Park in Benbrook.  Sometimes you need a close, easy place to let the kids run or ride off some energy, and this park fits the bill.

Lake Mineral Wells State Park

100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067

I know, Mineral Wells is not exactly around the corner.  But this park is well worth the 50-minute drive it takes to get there.  Enjoy the lake, the rolling hills, and the various trails of different levels of difficulty including the Lake Mineral Wells State Trailway, which is a reclaimed railroad bed that takes you all the way to downtown Weatherford.  My absolute favorite part of the park to hike, however, is in Penitentiary Hollow, which is a collection of natural sandstone formations that are always bustling with rock climbers.  Start at the top of the formations for a beautiful view and work your way down to the lake.  Adults are $7 kids 12 and under are free.

Lost Oak Winery

8101 County Road 802, Burleson, TX 76028

If you are in the mood for a little ‘hike and wine,’ this is the place.  Just a few minutes South of Fort Worth, Lost Oak Winery is home to true Texan wine, you can read more about this place on the blog here.  But what is so fun about this winery is that they have tons of wooded trail and a beautiful little creek on their property.  It’s a really great place to walk or bike and then enjoy a glass of vino afterwards.

Tandy Hills Park

3400 View St, Fort Worth, TX 76103

This park has a playground and several relatively easy hiking trails.  Be aware that it isn’t kept up with as well as aforementioned trails, and there are no bathrooms. However, this place makes our list because of the extremely gratifying and unique view of the Fort Worth skyline which is absolutely breathtaking at sunset.  Also, the wildflower and native Texas plants that grow there are absolutely gorgeous.

We hope you give these trails a try.  Keep in mind to carry water and snacks with you in a light backpack.  Use a map or take a screen shot of the trails on your phone; you’d be surprised how easy it is to get lost.  If you have kids or elderly with you, take into consideration their ability and stamina – better to do a shorter hike than end up having to carry them half of the way.  Wear safe shoes, and long pants and sleeves.  Lastly, respect your surroundings and always stay on the path.  Whether you are looking for a physical challenge, or a casual stroll, if you want to feel like you’re a hundred miles from home, or in the most beautiful city in North Texas (ehem, Fort Worth), there is something on this list for you.

Christy Ortiz is a Fort Worth native, and proud to say so.   She earned her bachelor’s degree from UT Arlington in Interdisciplinary Studies.  She taught for FWISD for eight busy years before switching gears and staying home with her two small children.  Her hobbies are interior decorating for friends, photography, and flying kites with her kids.  Her South American roots and love for the Spanish language and Latin cultures add to the diverse voices of our group.