7 Fantastic Hiking Trails Near Gainesville, TX

July 29, 2021

Gainesville, TX may not be the biggest or most famous city in the great state of Texas, but one area that it does excel in is hiking. Gainesville is surrounded by a wide array of hiking trails that vary in their difficulty level and the experience that they offer, making it a great place for hikers to visit.

Home Grown Hero Walking Trail

An easy hike that measures in at just under 3 miles, the Home Grown Hero Walking Trail is a truly one-of-a-kind hiking experience. This trail has signs all the way along its length informing visitors about the military personnel that have received the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor, making it great for hikers feeling patriotic, and those that wish to think about all the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

Eagle Mountain Lake Loop

This easier hike is 2.8 miles long and takes place right in the heart of Eagle Mountain Park. This wonderful loop takes hikers on a journey through the Eagle Mountain hills alongside the park’s beautiful lake, making it the perfect choice for hikers that love nature.

Pioneer Loop

Measuring in at just over 8 miles, the Pioneer Loop is one of the harder trails in the Gainesville area. The length of this hike means that it will test even the most experienced of hikers.

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve Trail Loop

The most popular hiking spot in the Gainesville area, the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve features an easy trail loop that measures at just under 4 miles long and is perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities. Children will love being able to spot a variety of wildlife while they hike, including owls, turtles, deer, and woodpeckers.

North Shore Trail

A favorite destination in the Gainesville area for both hikers and mountain bikers, the North Shore Trail is a difficult hike that measures in at just under 18 miles. The length of this trail means this hike is best split up into multiple visits, but the great views of Grapevine Lake make those multiple visits worthwhile.

Big Bear Creek Greenbelt

This dog-friendly trail is rated as easy and has a length of just over 5 miles. Taking hikers through the wonderful natural scenery of Big Bear Creek, this route is ideal for children, as they will love the nature that surrounds them.

Ray Roberts Greenbelt Corridor

This easier trail measures in at just over 10 miles, and is perfect for hikers new to off-road trails. The Ray Roberts Greenbelt Corridor also offers picnicking facilities for those who want to sit back and relax after their hike.

In conclusion, there are plenty of great hiking trails, that vary in difficulty and length, on offer around the Gainesville area that should satisfy every hiker that visits the area. From the difficult lakeside routes, like the North Shore Trail, to the easier hillside paths, like the Eagle Mountain Lake Loop, there is a hike for every level and taste. Once you have finished hiking these fantastic trails, make sure to check out Glenn Polk Ford for all your Ford vehicle needs.