Ready to trade the city skyline for wide-open skies? Backpacking in Texas is your ticket to adventure. From the rugged desert canyons of Big Bend National Park to the pine-covered trails of East Texas, the Lone Star State has some of the most diverse and breathtaking hiking routes in the country. Whether you’re chasing sunrise views from mountain ridges, camping under a blanket of stars, or trekking through endless plains, these trails offer multi-day challenges that test your endurance and reward you with unforgettable beauty. Grab your pack, lace up your boots, and let’s explore the ultimate backpacking trails across Texas.
| Region | Trail | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| West Texas | McKittrick Ridge Trail | 14 miles, 2,500 feet elevation gain, stunning ridge views |
| North Texas | Cross Timbers Trail | 14 miles, diverse terrain, rugged shoreline forests |
| Hill Country | Colorado Bend State Park Loop | 23 miles, Gorman Falls, scenic Hill Country trek |
| West Texas | Caprock Canyons Trailway | 64 miles, old railroad path, Clarity Tunnel bat colony |
| West Texas | Outer Mountain Loop | 30 miles, 5,700 feet elevation gain, rugged desert terrain |
| North Texas | LBJ Grasslands Orange Trail | 26 miles, meadows and forests, minimal crowds |
| East Texas | Lone Star Hiking Trail | 129 miles, longest Texas trail, runs through Sam Houston National Forest |
| East Texas | Trail Between the Lakes | 28 miles, hardwood forests, rolling hills, birdwatching opportunities |
McKittrick Ridge Trail
Begin an adventure through the McKittrick Ridge Trail, a challenging 14-mile out-and-back route in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas.
With an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet, this hike offers both a test of endurance and breathtaking rewards. As you navigate through the trail, you’ll traverse diverse terrain, including desert landscapes and forested areas, each revealing the unique ecosystems of the Guadalupe Mountains.
The panoramic views from the ridge are truly stunning and make the effort worthwhile. This challenging hike is best suited for experienced hikers, so make sure you’re prepared with ample water supplies, as there are no water sources along the route.
Plan accordingly to safely enjoy every part of this remarkable hiking experience. The Capitan Reef in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a fascinating feature, dating back 260 to 270 million years, and adds to the park’s geological significance.
Cross Timbers Trail
While exploring the Texas-Oklahoma border, you’ll uncover the Cross Timbers Trail, a nearly 14-mile out-and-back route that offers both excitement and tranquility. This trail is one of the prime backpacking destinations, featuring an elevation gain of over 1,200 feet. You’ll traverse diverse terrain, from resort areas to rugged shoreline forests. The trail is shared with mountain bikers, so stay alert for cyclists as you hike.
For a memorable multi-day hiking experience, take advantage of the campsites along the trail. These spots allow you to engage yourself in the picturesque natural setting. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including snakes, coyotes, and bobcats, as you wind through thick forests. The Cross Timbers Trail promises an adventure-filled expedition along the Texas-Oklahoma border.
Colorado Bend State Park Loop
The Colorado Bend State Park Loop offers a 23-mile trek through the heart of Texas Hill Country, rewarding hikers with an elevation gain of roughly 1,300 feet. You’ll encounter varying terrain, from open grasslands to dense thickets, and be captivated by the stunning Gorman Falls, cascading 70 feet. This trail is perfect for a multi-day backpacking adventure, with campsites conveniently placed along the route.
Spring is the ideal time to investigate, with wildflowers in full bloom, but summer’s invigorating spring-fed pools also call out to hikers. Be prepared for some sun-exposed sections and pack plenty of water. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or seeking a new challenge, Colorado Bend State Park offers an unforgettable loop through nature’s splendor.
The park is home to over 400 caves with guided tours available, making it a perfect destination for those who love to explore underground landscapes.
Caprock Canyons Trailway
After exploring the enchanting beauty of Colorado Bend State Park, another exciting escapade awaits on the Caprock Canyons Trailway.
Spanning 64 miles, this historic trail follows an old railroad, guiding you through the scenic Caprock Canyons State Park in West Texas. Visitors can explore the historic Clarity Tunnel, which houses Mexican free-tailed bats seasonally. As you commence this multi-day backpacking expedition, expect the challenge of over 2,500 feet in elevation gain.
You’ll traverse a stunning landscape of red dirt canyons and diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife like coyotes and deer. Don’t miss Clarity Tunnel, home to a lively colony of Mexican free-tailed bats.
Rated as moderate difficulty, some sections might be poorly maintained, so prepare accordingly. Primitive campsites are available, offering a truly remote and beautiful setting for your experience.
Outer Mountain Loop
Exploring Big Bend National Park‘s Outer Mountain Loop engulfs you in a 30-mile adventure through the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert.
This challenging trail begins in the Chisos Basin and takes you on a trek with significant elevation changes, gaining approximately 5,700 feet. The rugged terrain demands preparation, particularly since reliable water sources are scarce. You’ll need to plan for water caching to guarantee you stay hydrated.
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Big Bend National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience exceptionally dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing during your trek.
Dispersed camping is permitted in designated backcountry zones, but be mindful of hiker limits to protect the environment. Tackling this strenuous loop is best during the cooler months, especially in winter, for a safer and more comfortable experience.
Only attempt this if you’re an experienced hiker ready for a true backcountry challenge.
LBJ Grasslands Orange Trail
If you’re seeking a less strenuous yet likewise rewarding outdoor adventure, consider heading to the LBJ Grasslands Orange Trail. Located near the Dallas-Fort Worth area, this 26-mile loop offers a perfect escape for hiking enthusiasts. With an elevation gain of about 1,200 feet, you’ll investigate different landscapes ranging from open meadows to shady forests.
The trail is shared with mountain bikers and horseback riders, making it a lively multi-day hiking trail experience. One of the highlights here is wildlife observation; you’ll have the chance to spot several species in their natural habitats.
Additionally, the LBJ Grasslands is known for its minimal crowds, ensuring a peaceful hiking experience away from urban noise. It’s an adventure worth undertaking.
Lone Star Hiking Trail
When you’re ready to investigate Texas’s longest hiking trail, the Lone Star Hiking Trail awaits you with its 129 miles winding through the serene Sam Houston National Forest. This primarily flat trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. You’ll find opportunities for dispersed camping, making it ideal for multi-day hikes.
As you trek, the trail offers convenient water access from nearby Lake Conroe and several streams. The hiking trail is divided into sections, giving you the flexibility to choose shorter day hikes or longer adventures.
- 129 miles of trail through Sam Houston National Forest
- Dispersed camping (restricted from Sept 15 to Feb 1)
- Flat trail accessible to all skill levels
- Water access near Lake Conroe and streams
- Divided into sections for customized hikes
Trail Between the Lakes
Having investigated the vastness of the Lone Star Hiking Trail, you might be enthusiastic to continue your Texas adventure on the Trail Between the Lakes. This 28-mile out-and-back trail, situated in the Sabine National Forest near the Louisiana border, offers a picturesque expedition through hardwood forests, rolling hills, and pine savannahs.
The trail’s flat terrain makes it accessible to hikers of all levels, while the stunning backdrop of Lake Toledo Bend elevates the experience.
Birdwatching is a delightful bonus, with diverse wildlife filling the lush habitats. However, be cautious with water sources—creeks along the trail may not suffice, so plan your hydration carefully.
Thankfully, the well-marked path guarantees you can focus on the beauty surrounding you.
Texas Trails Overview
With its vast and varied landscapes, Texas offers an incredible array of trails for backpacking enthusiasts of all skill levels. From the flat expanse of the Chihuahuan Desert to the peaks of Guadalupe Mountains, there’s a trail for every adventurer.
Discover the Outer Mountain Loop in Big Bend National Park, where rugged terrain meets stunning vistas. Ascend the Guadalupe Peak Trail to conquer Texas’ highest point. For a lengthy expedition, the Lone Star Hiking Trail provides a 96-mile trek through rich forests.
Don’t forget about the xTx Trail, a planned 1,500-mile quest showcasing diverse ecosystems.
- Guadalupe Peak Trail: Challenge yourself with an 8.4-mile hike.
- Big Bend National Park: Experience breathtaking desert landscapes.
- Lone Star Hiking Trail: Texas’ longest trail.
- Chihuahuan Desert: Unique desert adventure.
- Wildlife observation: Spot diverse species along the way.
Austin Trails
Although Texas is renowned for its expansive landscapes, Austin offers its own enchanting trails that invite exploration. Start with the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a 10.4-mile trail with scenic waterfalls and swimming holes, perfect for a rejuvenating day of hiking.
For a unique adventure, the Lost Pines Hiking Trail provides a 7-mile circuit where you can camp under loblolly pines and enjoy excellent birdwatching. Head to Enchanted Rock for a 6.4-mile hike featuring pink rock formations and a giant granite dome.
Inks Lake State Park offers a 4.9-mile loop with rocky terrain and stunning natural beauty. Finally, the McKinney Roughs Loop, at 3.8 miles, gives you breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country along the Colorado River.