We’re riding across Texas, y’all. We’re talking on two wheels. From epic, flowy singletrack to technical riding set in stunning locations — the options for stellar mountain bike rides are as vast and varied as the terrain of Texas. From exceptional state and national parks dotted with top-tiered trails and with enough outdoor fun for the entire family, to an outdoor oasis adjacent to Texas metropolitans—the Lone Star State has it all.
The Baby Grand Mountain Bike Trail
Located in the second largest canyon in the United States (second only to the Grand Canyon) in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers some incredible access to mountain biking not available elsewhere! The Baby Grand is nearly all singletrack and links a variety of trails. While packed with lots of climbing, it makes up for it in scenic views. Expect flowing trails with views of the canyon’s stunning four geologic layers mixed with some climbs. At the end, you’ll end up on the Comanche Trail with views along the Red River.
Rugged layers of rock and vibrant flora and fauna are a sight to see; make time to explore the expanse of Palo Duro Canyon State Park in between hitting the trails. Trade riding on two wheels to galloping on a steed and see the canyon via horseback. In the summer months, catch a performance from TEXAS Outdoor Musical, a family-friendly show about early settlers, and camp in nearby glamping tents.
Big Bend Ranch State Park trail systems
For a seemingly other-worldly adventure packed with rugged mountains, starry night skies as big as Texas, and high desert expansive landscapes, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park. The opportunities for mountain bike riding throughout Big Bend are as vast as the terrain. Favorites like Contrabando Multiuse Trail System feature more than twenty-five miles of interconnected wagon paths and singletrack trails, giving access to a variety of lengths and skill levels, all set in the rugged Chihuahuan Desert. No matter the route, expect diverse terrain, breathtaking vistas, and the remoteness of Big Bend.
A trip to Big Bend Ranch State Park is chock full of must-try activities to check off on your bucket list. Big Bend Ranch State Park is Texas’s biggest state park and is also designated an International Dark Sky Park. At night, curl up under the stars and take in the incredible celestial wonders like you’ve never seen before. Take your star viewing to the next level with a visit to nearby McDonald Observatory. Camp in the park or find a unique home-away-from-home in the eclectic artsy towns of Marfa and Terlingua.
Herman Baker Loop Trail
For this trail, we’re in it for the views! A scenic loop around Pickens Lake, this trail is a fantastic option for a cruise mid-day or to get your mountain legs back in riding shape. This ride is a perfect mid-day excursion with the family in tow looking for some outdoor fun near the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Located north of Plano in Sherman, load up the family for a picnic lunch and cruise around the lake.
Cypress Creek Trail
Looking for varied terrain that’s fit for an experienced rider and located in the city? Houston has you covered. The Cypress Creek Trail offers an unexpected treat for thrill seekers on a mountain bike that packs in technical skills and flowy turns all in one. Partially located in the 100 Acre Wood Preserve in Houston, the Cypress Creek Trail flows through wooded forests with trail features like pavers, boardwalks, and wooden drops to spice it up a bit.
Reveille Peak Ranch
This is a mountain bike lover’s dream! Bring the family and settle in for a weekend camping, biking, and exploring this 1,300-acre outdoor event and adventure center just outside of Burnet in the Texas Hill Country. The ranch has 100 kilometers of trails to choose from, so there is truly something for every level of rider. Singletrack, doubletrack, downhill, and ranch roads — even a pump track for the park fans! Trails range in length and experience level. Check out the trail map and find the ones best suited for your adventure.
Don’t miss Spider Mountain Bike Park, Texas’s only lift-serviced mountain bike park and the only year-round mountain bike park in the country, located just three miles from the ranch. This is the spot for a mountain biking getaway in the Texas Hill Country.
Flat Rock Ranch
This spot is truly Texan: a working ranch plus mountain biking! Located on 1,300 acres just 45 miles north of San Antonio, the ranch has 29 miles of singletrack and doubletrack winding through flowing, rugged Texas Hill Country terrain. Expect spectacular views, climbs that make you work for it, downhills, and technical sections, as well as creek crossings.
Rest your legs after the ride at nearby Joshua Springs Park and Preserve, a quick twenty-minute drive away. This 400-acre preserve offers ample catch-and-release fishing and bird watching opportunities set alongside gorgeous 360-views of the Hill Country. Picnic under a shaded pavilion, let the dogs get some exercise in the two-acre off-leash dog park, or launch your kayak on the nine-acre lake.
North Shore Trail
Grapevine might be known for its amazing wineries, top-notch restaurants, and ample shopping, but this quaint midsized city is also home to pristine mountain biking. The North Shore Trail, located on Lake Grapevine, is celebrated for its access to the best mountain biking in the Dallas region. The North Shore Trail is an intermediate to advanced ride that follows the north shore of the lake, as it is aptly named, and can be accessed from a variety of spots like Rockledge Park. Expect winding paths shaded by oak and cedar trees with peaceful coves and some steep inclines.
And while the trail is no doubt a favorite, the 8,000-acre lake is a destination in and of itself. Beyond being a biking and hiking destination, the lake has two marinas for boating, charter sailing, kayak and boat rentals, and more. In the summer, an enormous action-packed floating playground called WhoaZone is a great way to make a splash and test your ninja skills on the lake.
