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February 17, 2018 Slideshows » News, Arts

The 25 Most Beautiful Trails to Hike or Bike Within Driving Distance of San Antonio

By San Antonio Current Staff

        
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Whether you're an amateur hiker, experienced biker or just like a leisurely stroll on a scenic trail, we've picked out some of the most beautiful nature trails you can enjoy and get there on a tank of gas.

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Lost Maples State Natural Area
37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, (830) 966-3413, tpwd.texas.gov
The two-hour drive to Lost Maples is totally worth it. The park features more than 10 miles of trails, including one loop that gives you an insane view from the top of a 2,200-foot cliff.
Photo via Instagram / texas_lovers_zz

Comanche Lookout Park
15551 Nacogdoches Rd, (210) 207-7275, sanantonio.gov
Here you’ll enjoy one of the highest elevation points in the city. Though you can’t go up to the lookout (darn!), this park is still a lot of fun. Brush up on your history (dating back to when Native Americans ruled the land) before visiting so you enjoy it fully.
Photo via Instagram / boriphotography80

Guadalupe River State Park
3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, (830) 438-2656, tpwd.texas.gov
You’ll even be able to ride your horse on certain sections of the 13 miles of trails. If you want a rougher terrain, try the lesser-traveled Bauer Unit.
Photo via Instagram / guadaluperiverstatepark

Enchanted Rock
16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, (830) 685-3636, tpwd.texas.gov
Nearly 11 miles of trails lets you experience enviable views that are well-worth the hike. You’ll be able to experience them all (we know you’ll visit plenty of times),but start with the Summit Trail for 360 degree views of the park – from 1823 ft. in the air!
Photo via Instagram / yogagems

Old Tunnel State Park
10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, (866) 978-2287, tpwd.texas.gov
This trail is just half a mile but can be steep at some points, perfect for strengthening those calves. While you can enjoy the sights of the Mexican free-tailed bats during the season, the regular trail alone makes for a nice getaway.
Photo via Instagram / texasparkswildlifefoundation

Bastrop State Park
100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, (512) 321-2101, tpwd.texas.gov
Take a few hours to appreciate the growing wilderness at this massive state park. If you’re in it for the long haul, take the 8.6-mile Lost Pines Loop. You’ll be able to see much of the park, including two overlook points for insane views.
Photo via Instagram / the_real_flex_wheelingham

Hill Country State Natural Area
10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, (830) 796-4413, tpwd.texas.gov
Plan accordingly so you can take advantage of 40+ miles of multiuse trails. You can hike, bike and even ride a horse along these designated paths.
Photo via Instagram / banderahistorical

Cibolo Nature Center
140 City Park Rd, Boerne, (830) 249-4616, cibolo.org
There’s plenty to do at Cibolo Nature Center, and the trails are short enough that you’ll be able to explore the entire center in a day. Throughout the property you’ll be able to hike marshes and open meadows alike. Plus, you can learn more about the dinosaur tracks that were discovered in 1997.
Photo via Instagram / kate.aline

Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, (512) 974-6700, austinparks.org
When in Austin, check out the urban oasis that is Barton Creek. Though you can have outdoor adventure after another here, stick to a simple hike or bike on the 7.2 trail. If you want to get a bit more of a thrill, try your hand at rock climbing.
Photo via Instagram / brodyandmarleysdad

Pedernales Falls State Park
2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, (830) 868-7304, tpwd.texas.gov
What better place is there to hike (or bike) and get wicked views of the scenic Hill Country. The Twin Falls Nature Trail is short (just half a mile), but lets you enjoy the overlook of the park. If you want something a little more intensive, opt for the 5.5-mile loop overlook.
Photo via Instagram / megangutt

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Palmetto State Park
78 Park Rd 11 S, Gonzales, (830) 672-3266, tpwd.texas.gov
A number of the trails intertwine to give you plenty of access to the park. Take the San Marcos River Trail to enjoy the water views and check out the extinct mud boils, which last bubbled in the ‘70s.
Photo via Instagram / davidbulgerin

Inks Lake State Park
3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, (512) 793-2223, tpwd.texas.gov
The nine miles of hiking trails goes through shady forests and across rocky hills, so you’re in for some serious nature time. Reach for new heights on the 1000-ft. overlook of Inks Lake on the Pecan Flats Trail, or treat yourself to the Devil’s Waterhole view on the Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail.
Photo via Instagram / josh.explores

Garner State Park
234 RR 1050, Concan, (830) 232-6132, tpwd.texas.gov
What would this list be without Garner State Park? These scenic trails are hard to beat, and with 11 miles of trails you have a lot to explore. Here you’ll be able to have an unbeatable view of the Frio River, check out the mysterious Old Rock Fence and climb the short, but steep trail up to Old Baldy Summit for a sight that’s Instagram worthy to say the least.
Photo via Instagram / texas_hillcountry

Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area
101 N. Sweeten St., Rocksprings, (830) 563-2287, tpwd.texas.gov
While this creepy sinkhole alone is worth the drive, make your trip worthwhile with a bat flight tour (during select times of the year) and leisure trek around the grounds.
Photo via Instagram / texashighways

Kickapoo Cavern State Park
20939 RM 674, Brackettville, (830) 563-2342, tpwd.texas.gov
Located 2.5 hours west of San Antonio, Kickapoo Cavern State Park offers trails for hiking (18 miles), mountain biking (14 miles), cave tours and an evening bat flight viewing session (when in season). The park features 20 known caves that are impressive to say the least, so reserve your spot for the $10 tour.
Photo via Instagram / somechicknamedalexis

Eisenhower Park
19399 NW Military Hwy, (210) 207-7275, sanantonio.gov
Take advantage of the 6+ miles of trail at Eisenhower Park and get to exploring. Choose from both manmade and natural trails, though the natural Hillview trail will take you around the entire park.
Photo via Instagram / redbonecoonhoundluke

Pace Bend Park
2011 Pace Bend Rd N, Spicewood, (512) 264-1482, parks.traviscountytx.gov
Travel up north for some time away at the wildlife reserve. Trails at Pace Bend lead into the hills and offer spectacular views of of the lake and Hill Country.
Photo via Instagram / tygovaars

O.P. Schnabel Park
9606 Bandera Rd, (210) 207-7275, sanantonio.gov
Enjoy the natural vegetation at Schnabel from one of six trails and loops throughout the park. In side the park, you’ll be able to venture out to the woods to really feel like one with nature.
Photo via Instagram / christinabune

Mustang Island State Park
17047 State Highway 361, Port Aransas, (361) 749-5246, tpwd.texas.gov
Heading to the coast usually means going for a swim and sunbathing. But if you’re looking for a trail in the area, a visit to Mustang Island for the park’s paddling trail is in order. Spend some time on the water and work those biceps.
Photo via Instagram / _mack_sauces

Blanco State Park
101 Park Rd 23, Blanco, (830) 833-4333, tpwd.texas.gov
Enjoy the sights of the gushing waters and swim, fish, paddle or go out on the boat if you wish. Explore the beautiful scenery on the 1.3-mile Caswell Nature Trail, which is a bit rocky.
Photo via Instagram / mk_nola

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Colorado Bend State Park
2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, (325) 628-3240, tpwd.texas.gov
There’s 35 miles of hike and bike trails, but join a ranger for a tour to Gorman Falls – a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall.
Photo via Instagram / brozankozan

Friedrich Wilderness Park
21395 Milsa Dr, (210) 207-3781, fosana.org
While 7 trails gives you plenty of options to exploring the park and getting your hike on, we’ve got to recommend the Main Loop Trail and the Water Trail. Rated a level four by the , these trails are perfect serious hikers who want to work their muscles and enjoy the beauty of the nature around.
Photo via Instagram / robert_em_eye

Government Canyon State Natural Area
12861 Galm Rd, (210) 688-9055, tpwd.texas.gov
You won’t have to travel far to enjoy the wide open spaces at Government Canyon. The natural area offers more than 40 miles of trails, ranging from gentle rolling grasslands to rugged terrain. Choose your path wisely – the Joe Johnson Route lets you see dinosaur tracks, while the Far Reaches Trail gives you unbeatable views.
Photo via Instagram / adrigcg

McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, (512) 243-1643, tpwd.texas.gov
With nine miles of trails, McKinney Falls is definitely worth the drive up to Austin. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is perfect for those wanting to catch some fresh air on bike or with the kids, but stick to Rock Shelter Trail for some serious hiking.
Photo via Instagram / kgeisler87

Medina River Natural Area
15890 Hwy 16 S, (210) 207-7275, sanantonio.gov
There’s a few shorter trails, but stick to the 6.9-mile Medina River Greenway for some serious elevation. You can also take some breaks along the river.
Photo via Instagram / sam.thompson.28

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