As an early frontier settlement, Dallas developed around the many rivers, trails, and paths that led the burgeoning city to become a major trade center. Over the years, many of those paths turned to roads and highways. Dallasites are grateful, however, that many of those early trails and creeks have been preserved as the city developed. Likewise, some of the earliest railroad tracks, such as the MKT or Katy, have been converted into multi-use trails.

You’ll find carefully maintained trails, creeks, parks and paths in most Dallas neighborhoods. However, there are a few that stand out from the rest for the truly committed outdoorsperson.

Katy Trail

Dallas 5k / photo by snowboard9 / CC BY-ND

For example, the Katy Trail runs through the Uptown and Oak Lawn neighborhoods and is a popular route for jogging, bicycling, inline skating, and walking. Many locals find this a particularly attractive area, as it’s located close to Downtown Dallas and the thriving Uptown area.

Cedar Ridge

If you’re more into true nature trails and undeveloped areas, you’ll want to visit the Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve in South Dallas. The basic route is less than two miles and it takes you through some hilly areas many wouldn’t expect in the Dallas area. You’ll find all kinds of nature lovers, from birders to leaf collectors. This is a must visit, even if you have to travel from a more northerly neighborhood like Lower Greenville.

White Rock Lake

If a trail suited for quick jogs and bicycle rides is more to your style, Northeast Dallas has a number of trails that lead to White Rock Lake. The Lakewood neighborhood offers easy access and allows you to plot multiple routes that can range from a few minutes to several hours. While most of this area is developed, you will actually find remnants of the original Dallas plains that at one point blanketed the entire area.

Dogwood Canyon

Photo by Branmo / CC BY-ND

On the southern side of the city, the Cedar Hill area boasts the 270-acre Dogwood Canyon. A relatively new and popular attraction for nature lovers, the area boasts more than four miles of carefully planned trails that allow you to spend as much or as little time as you desire during each visit.

Arbor Hills

Photo by David Kobuszewski / CC BY

Just north of Dallas proper is the pristine Arbor Hills Nature Center. Covering 200 acres, this is another master-planned park and trail system designed to offer something for everyone. You’ll find multiple trails and paths, including the 1.7-mile Outer Loop Trail running along Indian Creek, a paved 2.3-mile path for joggers, and even a 2-mile dirt loop for mountain bikers.

Just a short drive from several neighborhoods, including Castlemere and Prestonwood, this active spot is popular with locals. Whether you just want to walk and enjoy the view or give it all on a challenging mountain bike track, you’ll find the right trail to keep you busy.

Dallas offers a surprisingly large number of options for those who love the outdoors. The best thing is that you can find just the area you prefer to get ready for a marathon, take the kids for a stroll, or just walk to a pleasant spot to sit and read.