Get Some Cardio (And Great Food) at These 6 Beginner Trails in Texas

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Get Some Cardio (And Great Food) at These 6 Beginner Trails in Texas

Feeling the sun beating down on your face as you enjoy beautiful panoramic views – that’s what the many trails in Texas have to offer. For me, no matter how long and hard the climb or hike is, the stunning vistas on these hiking routes are a worthwhile reward. There’s nothing better than letting time slip away while reveling in such splendid scenery. 

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If you’re on the hunt for some tremendous trails in the Lone Star State, then keep reading. We’ve made a list of some of our favorite places that offer hiking and walking routes in fabulous locations. 

Armand Bayou Nature Center

Just outside Houston in the Clear Lake area is the Armand Bayou Nature Center. A great place to connect with nature, this spot offers relaxed trails for you to enjoy with the family (especially if you have little ones). The five trails that cross the Nature Center are around two miles each, all of which with little to no elevation. These routes boast wonderful views of the grasslands, the restored family farm and the bayou. After a fun day outdoors, it’s time to grab a bite to eat, so get on down to H Town’s own Dot Coffee Shop for a super tasty meal. Their chicken fried steak and pecan pie are worth the drive.

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Gorman Falls

A light hike is all it takes to experience nature’s majesty at Gorman Falls in all its glory. Located in Colorado Bend State Park, the 1.5-mile trail leads up to Gorman Falls, and is great for beginners, leisure hikers and even kids. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the 70-foot-tall waterfall, as you cool off for the hike back. After absorbing the sights of the trail, why not head to Stoneledge Winery and Vineyards for a glass or two to cap off the day. 

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Chihuahuan Desert Trail

Aaaah, Big Bend National Park. A place that’s close to my heart. Situated here is a wonderful little walking route called the Chihuahuan Desert Trail, which is backdropped by stunning views. At only half a mile long, this trail is short and sweet, meaning you don’t have to hike far to be rewarded. Afterwards, see if you can drop by the Chili Pepper Cafe in Terlingua. Their burgers and Mexican Coca Colas are the perfect pairing after a day in the hot Texas sun.

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Brackenridge Park

Who says that trails are only found in the rugged outdoors? Brackenridge Park is a brilliant green spot in the middle of San Antonio, a bustling urban center not known for its hiking potential! Here, you can still break a sweat as you walk the two miles of walkways that criss-cross the park. Enjoy the beautiful landscaped gardens, bursting with bright floral colors. Consider yourself a bit of a whiskey fan? Less than 10 minutes’ drive from Brackenridge Park is Devils River Whiskey Distillery, where you can grab a bottle of the good stuff to enjoy at home after a fun afternoon of getting lost in the Japanese Garden.

Brackenridge Park

Kirby Nature Trail

Kirby Nature Trail out in Lumberton is home to a huge variety of plant and animal species. Whether you’re an ecology buff or not, walking this route is a laid-back yet wonderful way to appreciate nature. Though the trail is short, it features the best of what this ecologically diverse area has to offer. Along the way, you’ll be blessed by sights of the flora and fauna of Southeast Texas. On your way home, I recommend picking up a couple punnets of berries from Berry Best, situated in Silsbee. During berry season, this farm sells freshly picked berries (blueberries, strawberries and more!) that are delightfully juicy and ripe. 

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Palmetto State Park

Located on the outskirts of Gonzales, Palmetto State Park boasts a great ⅓ mile trail through a dense palmetto grove. This wonderful route will have you thinking you’re in the middle of a rainforest, and budding ornithologists will be delighted to have the chance to spot over 250 species of wild birds thriving in their habitats! Driving from Palmetto State Park, you’ll find the wonderfully quaint Luling’s Original Farmer’s Market. If you’re planning on visiting the market in June, look out for their annual Watermelon Thump, hosted on the last weekend of the month.

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For me, hiking is the best form of exercise. With the right trail to follow, you have the chance to be liberated from your normal everyday environment, while giving your senses quite the feast. Consider yourself to be a bit of a hiking enthusiast? Texas offers a huge number of trails for you to get your sweat on, all while enjoying stellar views. 

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