Fall is officially upon us, and even though the foliage won’t reflect that for about another month here in Texas (here is a more in-depth look at the best places and times to view fall foliage in our state), it’s never too early to start planning trips. All five of these trails are three miles or less, meaning they’re suitable for all fitness levels and won’t take up an entire day – plus, they provide absolutely breathtaking views. What more could you ask for?
- Maple Trail (Lost Maples State Natural Area, Vanderpool)
Flickr/gold41 This trail is only .36 miles long, yet it has some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the state. Lost Maples is known for its bigtooth maples whose leaves change into some of the most vibrant reds and oranges you’ve ever seen. This is arguably Texas’ most scenic autumn hiking trail.
- Campos Trail Overlook (Garner State Park, Concan)
Flickr/galebdf With only .68 miles of hiking and an incredible payoff at the end, you’ll almost feel like you’re cheating on this trail. Beautiful foliage along the entirety of the path culminates in a vast overlook that gives you a panoramic view of the Hill Country and the awe-inspiring fall colors of its vegetation.
- Mountain View Trail (Daingerfield State Park, Daingerfield)
tpwd.texas.gov This trail is only 1.2 miles long, but don’t let that fool you - it’s actually quite challenging. It’s absolutely worth it, however, because it takes you to one of the highest spots in the area and provides a stunning view of the pine-studded bluffs.
- Dogwood Trail (Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, Pittsburg)
tpwd.texas.gov The Dogwood Trail is only 1.57 miles long, yet still manages to take you through a good portion of the park. About 1/4 of the way along the path, you’ll reach a pond surrounded by oak trees - a positively amazing sight during fall.
- Mesa Trail (Caprock Canyons State Park, Quitaque)
Facebook/Caprock.Canyons The Panhandle has its fair share of fall foliage as well. The cottonwood trees at Caprock Canyons State Park turn a brilliant yellow when autumn rolls around, and the Mesa Trail is one of the best places to see them. It’s 3 miles round trip, relatively easy, and completely worth it.
Have you ever hiked any of these trails? What’s your favorite place to see fall foliage in Texas?
Flickr/gold41
This trail is only .36 miles long, yet it has some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the state. Lost Maples is known for its bigtooth maples whose leaves change into some of the most vibrant reds and oranges you’ve ever seen. This is arguably Texas’ most scenic autumn hiking trail.
Flickr/galebdf
With only .68 miles of hiking and an incredible payoff at the end, you’ll almost feel like you’re cheating on this trail. Beautiful foliage along the entirety of the path culminates in a vast overlook that gives you a panoramic view of the Hill Country and the awe-inspiring fall colors of its vegetation.
tpwd.texas.gov
This trail is only 1.2 miles long, but don’t let that fool you - it’s actually quite challenging. It’s absolutely worth it, however, because it takes you to one of the highest spots in the area and provides a stunning view of the pine-studded bluffs.
The Dogwood Trail is only 1.57 miles long, yet still manages to take you through a good portion of the park. About 1/4 of the way along the path, you’ll reach a pond surrounded by oak trees - a positively amazing sight during fall.
Facebook/Caprock.Canyons
The Panhandle has its fair share of fall foliage as well. The cottonwood trees at Caprock Canyons State Park turn a brilliant yellow when autumn rolls around, and the Mesa Trail is one of the best places to see them. It’s 3 miles round trip, relatively easy, and completely worth it.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
