Ready to explore the great outdoors in Texas? Whether you’re a beginner seeking an easy-going trail or an experienced runner craving a tough climb, Texas has something for everyone. With its diverse landscapes, you’ll discover ample opportunities to soak in the state’s natural beauty.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best running trails in Texas. Each offers a unique experience, from panoramic mountain views in El Paso to serene riverbanks in Dallas. Get ready to discover the top spots for your next adventure.
1. Trinity Skyline Trail, Dallas
For a scenic city run, the 4.6-mile Trinity Skyline Trail offers stunning views of downtown Dallas. This flat, hard-surface path is ideal for beginners and winds along the banks of the Trinity River, bringing a serene touch of nature to the urban landscape.
Springtime runners will enjoy wildflowers blooming along the trail, adding pops of color. The lack of shade, however, means it’s best to head out early or in cooler months. Parking is available at spots like the Continental Avenue Bridge and Trinity Overlook, making it super convenient for a quick jog.
2. Memorial Park, Houston
Memorial Park is Houston’s runner’s paradise, with over 25 miles of trails. The most popular route is the 2.9-mile Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail, a multi-use gravel loop that circles the golf course.
If you’re looking for more variety, explore the shaded paths on the park’s southern end, which range from easy sprints to tougher two-mile loops. The park’s Running Trails Center has lockers and showers, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
3. Corpus Christi Seawall, Corpus Christi
The Corpus Christi Seawall is more than just a protective barrier, it also serves as a vibrant running route. Start your run at the Selena Memorial Statue and follow the path south to Cole Park. Along the way, you’ll get breezy ocean views and end up close to McGee Beach, where you can cool down with a post-run dip. Free parking along the seawall makes this an easy-to-access coastal escape for runners of all levels.
4. North Franklin Mountain Trail (via Mundy’s Gap), El Paso
For those craving a true challenge, this 7.7-mile round-trip trail takes you to the highest peak in El Paso at nearly 7,200 feet. Start at the West Cottonwood Spring trailhead and climb through rocky desert terrain to Mundy’s Gap before continuing along the North Franklin Mountain Trail.
With steep inclines and loose rocks, this trail is not for the faint of heart but offers unparalleled 360-degree views across Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico. An early morning start and plenty of water are highly recommended.
5. Lighthouse Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
This 5.8-mile out-and-back trail leads runners through a landscape of towering red rock cliffs and desert scrub, culminating at the famous Lighthouse Rock. The packed dirt trail, with some rocky sections, is accessible but challenging for intermediate runners. The panoramic canyon views are especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset. Make sure to bring water with you.
6. Guadalupe Peak Trail, Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The “Top of Texas”, this 8.4-mile out-and-back route gains nearly 3,000 feet in elevation, leading to the highest point in Texas at 8,718 feet. Starting at Pine Springs Campground, the trail winds through juniper, pine, and Douglas fir forests, passing fossilized seabed formations and offering stunning overlooks.
The final stretch is a rugged rock scramble, but the views of West Texas and New Mexico are unmatched. The high elevation and unpredictable weather make it essential to bring plenty of water, layers, and strong trail shoes.