Nothing helps you take in the fresh outdoor air and scenic nature quite like a refreshing hike across Houston’s most picturesque trails. Whether you’re surrounded by flourishing blooms, waterfront views, or native wildlife, planning a day hike on your own or with loved ones is a great way to explore the city’s sights and sounds. Here are three of Houston’s most enchanting outdoor retreats with hiking trails of their own.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Eight trails run throughout the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, offering views of landscapes ranging from creeks and meadows to riparian habitats and native grasslands, along with wildlife like birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. You can also take a break from hiking and visit the observation deck, tour the Carol Tatkon Sensory Garden, and explore the Discovery Room’s nature exhibits and activities.
If you’re a fan of bird-watching, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center sponsors bird walk outings, too. These are held on the second Saturday of each month and make it easy to catch sights of falcons, hawks, owls, and vultures from a closer vantage point.
Terry Hershey Park Hike and Bike Trail
Enclosed within a 500-acre piece of land on the western side of Houston is the Terry Hershey Park Hike and Bike Trail. It’s named after Terry Hershey, a conservationist who was the first of many community members to pioneer for the growth and development of the park. Thanks to her efforts, visitors can explore the park’s native habitats as they were always meant to be.
Additionally, outdoor amenities include hiking trails that span 22 miles across Terry Hershey Park and George Bush Park collectively. Not all of these routes are paved, and some even sit atop dirt and grass, though you will find all of them appropriately named after birds (quail, cardinal, blue jay, robin, and mockingbird). Aside from hiking and biking, these trails offer generous views of creeks and riverbanks as well, where you can relax against the waterfront while appreciating the area’s calming ambiance.
Galveston Island State Park
Head an hour outside of Houston to Galveston Island State Park and enjoy up-close views of bayous, beach-side fronts, coastal prairies, freshwater ponds, lagoons, saltwater marshes, and wetlands. Stand above the observation tower to see a panoramic glimpse of the park and be sure to take advantage of opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, camping, bird watching, mountain biking, and hiking.
The trails surrounding Galveston Island State Park are as diverse as they come. You’ll find trails and loops bordering ponds as well as trails meant for paddling. Plus, guests can partake in hiking events at the park like scouring for edible plants, walking to the Galveston Bay overlook, and venturing into grasslands. As you explore the grounds, keep an eye out for resident animals like marsh rabbits, armadillos, raccoons, mallard ducks, redfish, and the 300-plus bird species that often rest here.
What more could you expect from a day hike around Houston than scenic habitats and diverse wildlife populations? Fortunately for locals, the city boasts more than enough outdoor attractions where you can find the best of both.
Image via Flickr by giskou | CC BY-SA 2.0.
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