For those looking for an exciting adventure in the Lone Star State, backpacking in Texas is a must. From the rolling hills of the Hill Country to the rugged terrain of Big Bend, the state offers an abundance of breathtaking sights to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Texas.
In this blog post, we’ll be covering the 8 best backpacking spots in Texas, from the most scenic to the most challenging. Get ready to be inspired and plan your next getaway, because these seven spots are sure to be the highlight of your trip!
Good Water Loop – Texas
| Navigation Style: | Loop |
| Complexity Level: | Intermediate |
| Length: | 28 miles |
| Address: | Georgetown, Texas |
| Features: | Camping, Running, Backpacking, Hiking, Dog Friendly, Lake, Scenic, Wildflowers |
| Reviews: | 117 |
| Rating: | 4.7 |
Good Water Loop is a great backpacking trail in Texas, located around Lake Georgetown. Featuring free primitive camping, Savannah grasses, prickly pear cactus, Hill Country limestone and cedar, and crystal-clear spring-fed waters, Good Water Loop is great for all levels of hikers and adventurers.
With easy access from both Austin and Dallas-Fort Worth, Good Water Loop is a perfect destination for camping, running, backpacking, hiking and dog-friendly activities. With scenic views and wildflowers in bloom, Good Water Loop is an unforgettable experience.
Get The Facts Before You Start!
Trail Difficulty: The trail is considered to be moderate to difficult, with some steep climbs and descents, rocky sections, and uneven terrain. Hikers and backpackers should be in good physical condition and be prepared for the trail’s challenges.
Water Sources: The trail is named after the “Good Water” spring, which is located near the trailhead and provides a reliable water source. However, other water sources on the trail can be unreliable or seasonal, so it’s important to carry enough water to last between water sources.
Best Time to Hike: The Good Water Loop trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall are generally the best times to hike due to cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and rainy, so be prepared for the weather if hiking during these seasons.
Cross Timbers Hiking Trail
| Navigation Style: | Point to point |
| Complexity Level: | Intermediate |
| Length: | 14.2 miles |
| Address: | Lake Texoma, North Texas |
| Features: | Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Dog friendly, Forest, River, Views, Wildlife, Blowdown, Muddy, Over grown, Rocky, Washed out, Fee |
| Reviews: | 74 |
| Rating: | 4.4 |
Cross Timbers Trail is a point-to-point backpacking trail located in Texas. It’s a great spot for camping, hiking, bird watching, running, and walking with your dog. The trail offers stunning views, wildlife, and a variety of terrain including blowdown, muddy, overgrown, rocky, and washed out sections.
It’s also one of the few camping spots in the state with no reservation required. The trail features an unexpected elevation gain, making it surprisingly challenging, plus it has plenty of opportunities for primitive camping.
Know Before You Go!
Trail Markings: The Cross Timbers Hiking Trail is well-marked with orange blazes and signs at major intersections. However, it’s still a good idea to bring a map and compass or GPS device to help navigate the trail.
Camping: Backpackers can camp along the trail at designated backcountry campsites. Permits are required and can be obtained from the park office. There are also primitive campsites available at Lake Texoma State Park.
Chisos Mountain Loop – Big Bend National Park
| Navigation Style: | Round Trip |
| Complexity Level: | Moderate |
| Length: | 1.8 miles |
| Address: | Big Bend National Park, Texas |
| Features: | Camping, Photography, Backpacking, Hiking, Bathrooms, Food Nearby, Scenic, Wildlife |
| Reviews: | 11 |
| Rating: | 4.8 |
The Chisos Mountains Loop is a 1.8 mile moderate round-trip backpacking trail in Big Bend National Park. Along the trail, hikers will get to experience the breathtaking views of the Chihuahuan Desert, the US-Mexico border, and the 8,000-foot peaks of Texas. The trail features narrow canyons, cliff hikes, and moderate brush and forest.
Along the way, hikers may spot Mountain Lions, Mexican Black Bears, Mexican Jays, Tarantulas, Rattlesnakes, and Javelinas. There are also several South Rim backcountry sites where hikers can set up camp and enjoy views of the Santa Elena Canyon, Donkey Ears, and the surrounding desert. The trail finishes with a summit of Emory Peak, offering an even more spectacular view.
Know Before You Begin!
Wildlife: The Chisos Mountains Loop trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes. Hikers should take appropriate precautions to avoid encounters with these animals, such as carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.
Best Time to Hike: The Chisos Mountains Loop trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall are generally the best times to hike due to cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and windy, so be prepared for the weather if hiking during these seasons.
Hike the Four Notch Loop, Huntsville, Texas
| Navigation Style: | Loop |
| Complexity Level: | Moderate |
| Length: | 9 miles |
| Address: | Huntsville, Texas |
| Features: | Dogs on leash, Camping, Hiking, River, Views, Wildlife |
| Reviews: | 317 |
| Rating: | 4.5 |
Four Notch Loop Trail is a great backpacking trail in Texas. It offers a moderately challenging day hike or multi-day adventure, with well-marked and maintained trails. There are several creek crossings, sections of the Lone Star Hiking Trail, and plenty of wildlife to observe. Features include dogs on leash, camping, hiking, rivers, views, and wildlife. It’s a great choice for experienced hikers and a perfect way to explore the great outdoors.
Know Before You Go!
Best Time to Hike: The Four Notch Loop trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall are generally the best times to hike due to cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and windy, so be prepared for the weather if hiking during these seasons.
Wildlife: The Sam Houston National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild hogs, and snakes. Hikers should take appropriate precautions to avoid encounters with these animals, such as carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.
Lone Star Hiking Trail
| Navigation Style: | Point to point |
| Complexity Level: | Moderately Challenging |
| Length: | 129 miles |
| Address: | Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, United States |
| Features: | Dogs on leash, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Forest, Views, Wildlife, Over grown |
| Reviews: | 201 |
| Rating: | 4.3 |
The Lone Star Hiking Trail is a long-distance trail that runs through the Sam Houston National Forest and is located just a few hours’ drive from major Texas cities. It is popular among thru-hikers and is best hiked in the fall, winter, and spring.
The rugged trail features breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and several places to resupply, including Huntsville State Park. It is a great option for experienced hikers looking for a unique experience in East Texas.
Get The Facts Before You Start!
Camping: Backpackers can camp along the trail at designated backcountry campsites. Permits are required and can be obtained from the Sam Houston National Forest office.
Trail Access: The trail can be accessed from several trailheads, including the southern trailhead at Highway 105 and the northern trailhead at Trailhead Park. Parking is available at each trailhead.
Lost Maples State Park
| Navigation Style: | Out and Back |
| Complexity Level: | Challenging |
| Length: | 2,174.2 acres in Bandera and Real counties |
| Address: | Vanderpool, TX |
| Features: | River, Dogs on leash, Hiking, Road biking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Family friendly |
| Reviews: | 1179 |
| Rating: | 4.7 |
Lost Maples State Park is a stunningly beautiful natural paradise in the Texas Hill Country. Offering a diverse range of scenery, the park features lush canyons and valleys, rugged rock formations, and breathtaking views from the caprock. With its winding trails, numerous lookout points, and captivating wildlife, the park is a perfect place for a day of exploration or a weekend of camping, hiking, and backpacking.
Get The Facts Before You Begin!
Swimming: Visitors can swim and fish in the Sabinal River, which runs through the park. However, swimming is not allowed during times of high water or flooding.
Day Use: Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, bird watching, and stargazing in the park’s day use area. There are several picnic tables and grills available, as well as a playground for children.
Entrance Fees: There is an entrance fee to enter Lost Maples State Natural Area, with fees varying depending on the time of year and type of visit. Visitors can also purchase an annual Texas State Parks Pass, which provides unlimited access to all Texas state parks for a year.
Garner State Park, TX
| Navigation Style: | Loop |
| Complexity Level: | Easy |
| Length: | 2.9 miles of Frio River |
| Address: | 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838, United States |
| Features: | Kid friendly, Dogs on leash, Hiking, Bird watching, Forest, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee |
| Reviews: | 4491 |
| Rating: | 4.7 |
Garner State Park is a 1,774 acre park located in the Texas Hill Country, with 2.9 miles of Frio River winding through its scenic terrain. Popular activities include swimming, tubing, paddle boating, camping, nature studies, picnicking, canoeing, fishing, mini golf, geocaching, biking, and dancing.
Overnight visitors can stay in screened shelters, cabins, or campsites, and the park’s concessionaire sells meals and snacks during the busy season. The park also hosts the Briscoe-Garner Museum, Fort Inge, and the Frio Bat Flight tour.
Know Before You Go!
Activities: Garner State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, tubing, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating. The park also has a miniature golf course and a playground for children.
Frio River: The Frio River runs through the park and is a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. The river can be crowded during the summer months, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Dancing: During the summer months, Garner State Park hosts a nightly dance on the park’s outdoor pavilion. This is a popular event that draws visitors from all over the state.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
| Navigation Style: | Out & back |
| Complexity Level: | Difficult |
| Length: | 13.0 KM |
| Address: | Dell City, TX 79847, United States |
| Features: | Running, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Forest, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, No shade, Fee, No dogs |
| Reviews: | 5305 |
| Rating: | 4.8 |
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert of Texas and is home to the highest peak in the state. The park offers a variety of backpacking trails, ranging from easy day hikes to more strenuous overnight hikes. The park includes the rugged Guadalupe Peak, which stands at 8,749 feet, as well as the beautiful McKittrick Canyon.
There are also opportunities for camping, rock climbing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the fascinating geology of the area, including fossil remains and ancient marine fossils, as well as stunning views of the desert landscape.
Get The Facts Before You Start!
Guadalupe Mountains: The park’s namesake, the Guadalupe Mountains, are a series of rugged peaks that rise up to 8,749 feet above sea level. The mountains are made up of ancient fossil reefs and are home to a variety of unique plant species.
McKittrick Canyon: McKittrick Canyon is a scenic canyon located in the park that is known for its fall foliage and beautiful hiking trails. The canyon is home to several historic buildings, including the historic Pratt Lodge.
Entrance Fees: There is an entrance fee to enter Guadalupe Mountains National Park, with fees varying depending on the time of year and type of visit. Visitors can also purchase an annual America the Beautiful Pass, which provides unlimited access to all national parks and federal lands for a year.
FAQ
What is the most beautiful backpacking trail in Texas?
The most beautiful backpacking trail in Texas is the Big Bend National Park trail, which offers stunning views of the Texas desert and mountain ranges.
What is the toughest hiking trail in Texas?
The toughest hiking trail in Texas is the Chisos Mountains Loop Trail in Big Bend National Park. This strenuous 14.2-mile loop trail gains more than 2,000 feet in elevation and offers amazing views of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below.
Is there a fee to enter the park?
Yes, there is an entrance fee to enter the park. The fee varies depending on the time of year and type of visit.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this list of 8 best backpacking spots in Texas. If you liked the article, please share with your friends and fellow travelers! If you liked this article, I encourage you to check out my other content – I’m always adding new posts.