What could be better than getting out in the sunshine enjoying a picturesque park? You can do this and much more on Central Texas hiking and biking trails. Here’s a list of these trails and what they have to offer. There’s something for every skill level, so, grab the kids, a bottle of water and a healthy snack and enjoy the warm weather.
2601 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76708
Located along the banks of the Brazos River, this five-mile trail runs from the natural beauty of Cameron Park to Baylor University’s campus. It includes limestone cliffs, natural springs, and a disc golf course.
2. Lake Waco Trails (Waco)
2885 N Speegleville Rd, Waco, TX 76712
These trails can be accessed are 10 miles long and can be accessed from Reynolds Park on the edge of Lake Waco. You will have to pay a small park admission fee during the summer months, but it will be worth the price. You might even see a bald eagle on your ride.
3. FM 2305 Hike and Bike Trail (Temple)
W. Highway 2305, Temple, TX 76513
This five-mile trail is asphalt and concrete and includes native plants and an old steel bridge over a babbling brook. You will find this trail between West Loop 363 and St. Andrews Place.
4. Friar’s Creek Hike and Bike Trail #1 (Temple)
5000 S. 5th St., Temple, TX 76504
Ride down this concrete trail for more than three miles of designated wetland. It is the habitat for waterfowl, wildlife and native flowers.
5. Friar’s Creek Hike and Bike Trail #2 (Temple)
2264 S. 5th Street, Temple, TX 76504
This delightful trail is great for beginners and families. It’s less than a mile in length and includes a monarch butterfly habitat, a pond with a fountain, and native trees.
6. Lions Park (Temple)
4320 Lions Rd., Temple, TX 76502
This two-mile, concrete trail runs through wetland areas and includes amenities like a fishing pond, a dog park, baseball fields, a playground and even an amphitheater.
7. Miller Park (Temple)
1919 N. 1st St., Temple, TX 76501
The Miller Park trail is less than a mile and is ideal for a family stroll. You can take advantage of the Monarch butterfly habitat, the skate park, exercise stations, pavilions, a playground and even a splash pad.
**Find more information about Temple trails here
8. Nolan Creek Park (Belton)
312 N. Alexander St., Belton, TX 76513
Stroll through historic Belton along Nolan Creek on this 1.11-mile concrete trail. Enjoy fishing, horseshoe pits, a splash pad and more.
9. Andy K. Wells Hike and Bike Trails (Killeen)
2201 E. Veterans Blvd., Killeen, TX 76541
This 2.5-mile trail links two lakes (Lake Belton and Still House Hollow Lake), winds through native trees and offers scenic views.
10. Lions Club Park (Killeen)
1600 E. Stan Schlueter Loop, Killeen, TX 76541
Enjoy this 1.4-mile trail that winds around Lions Park recreational area that includes an aquatic center, a fitness center a dog park, a golf course and athletic fields.
11. Dana Peak Park (Harker Heights)
3800 Comanche Gap Rd., Harker Heights, TX 76548
Dana Peak Park includes not just one trail, but six, so you can choose which one best suits your skill-level. The 6.8-mile loop offers breath-taking views of the shoreline of Still House Hollow Lake.
Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.