Despite being a bustling metropolis, Dallas is no concrete jungle. The city boasts 397 parks over 20,118 acres, so there’s lots of opportunity for a beautiful walk. Whether it’s to wind down after work, or an energising start to your weekend, it doesn’t get much better than a good old stomp. As there’s a lot of ground to cover, we’ve narrowed it down so you can take to the city with ease. Here are 7 of the best walks in Dallas.
Best Walks in Dallas
1. Katy Trail
Length: 3.5 miles
Duration: 1 hour
The Katy Trail is a path that runs through Uptown and Oak Lawn, following where the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad ran through. The railroad’s nickname was MKT, eventually becoming the Katy. It’s a popular, inner-city path where you’ll see plenty of joggers, dog walkers, cyclists, and rollerbladers. Passing through pedestrian areas and parks, it’s quite a unique trail that offers a welcome respite from the big city, without actually having to leave the city. And what’s better than a beautiful walk? The even more beautiful beer afterwards, of course. Be sure to stop off at the Katy Trail Ice House for a well-earnt drink.
2. White Rock Lake Trail
Length: 9.4 miles
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
An almost-10-mile trail right in the heart of the city is pretty impressive. This trail loops around the scenic shoreline of White Rock Lake, an ideal spot for walking, cycling, jogging, bird watching, fishing, paddle boarding, and more. There’s also a great dog park, with a designated dog section of the lake so your furry friend can splash around freely. It’s only when you catch the remarkable view of Downtown that you remember you’re in the city. It’s a pretty special moment, one that’s made even better if you stick around for sunset.
3. Cedar Brake Trail
Length: 2.2 miles
Duration: 1 hour
There are several trails that wind through the Cedar Ridge Preserve, spanning over 9 miles. The Cedar Brake Trail covers a portion of the park, so we encourage you to spend time exploring the beautiful surroundings. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the wildflowers, birds, butterflies, and general peacefulness. This trail is the epitome of serene, you won’t believe you’re just 20 minutes away from Downtown. This walk gains an elevation of 250 ft, but there are other parts of the park that reach 633 ft. That’s pretty high for North Texas! There’s a lovely viewpoint halfway through the trail, so you can take in the sights.
4. Continental Avenue Bridge
Length: 0.5 miles
Duration: 10 minutes
It won’t take you long to cross this bridge, but we imagine you’ll want to spend longer here to enjoy the view, take pictures, and play on the life-size chess board. Why not?
The Continental Avenue Bridge was only built in 2014, connecting pedestrians and cyclists from Downtown Dallas to West Dallas and vice versa. While most of the other views on this list appreciate nature, there’s nothing wrong with a good city skyline. Cities can be beautiful, and Dallas certainly is. And this isn’t just any old bridge. You’ll find a life-size chess board, a splash park, a meditation plaza, a playground with geometric building blocks, and plenty of lounge chairs. Although it’s connecting one place to the other, it’s become a destination in its own right. If you’re enjoying the walk, you can easily extend it and continue onto the Trinity Skyline Trail, which spans the Trinity River.
5. Swiss Avenue
Length: 2.5 miles
Duration: 1 hour
This walk is slightly different from the others on the list. There’s something so fascinating about driving through the ‘nice parts of town’ to ogle at the lavish and beautiful houses, but for the most part, actually stepping out of your car feels like an intrusion. But in the Swiss Avenue Historical District, it’s encouraged. You’ll see plenty of other walkers taking a look at the Gothic Revival and Victorian-style homes. A wide, tree-lined road of historical houses, it’s the American dream.
Dallas is a beautiful city, but this district is a far cry from the modern metropolis that is Dallas, which sometimes even the most committed city dwellers need a break from. Swiss Avenue is just ten minutes away from Downtown but feels worlds apart. And the Historical District covers more than Swiss Avenue, extending to Fitzburgh Street and Bryan Parkway, so you could always extend your walk.
6. Lakeside Park
Length: 2 miles
Duration: 45 minutes
In the affluent area of Highland Park, Lakeside Park is consistently rated as one of the best things to do in Dallas. It’s beautiful and laid back, with the slightly disconcerting addition of giant teddy bear statues. But it’s still a lovely place to walk around, and the teddy bear statues are certainly a photo opportunity!
As well as 14 acres of lush greenery and fairytale-like trees, there is also a waterfall, a lake covered with pretty lily pads, and a bridge. There’s something for everyone on this walk, especially if you’re looking for that extra bit of playfulness.
7. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve Trail
Length: 6.5 miles
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Can you believe there is 121-acre of lush, green space in heart of Dallas? This city’s commitment to beautiful greenery and parks is impressive. And with several trails across 8 miles, you’ll have plenty of walks to choose from. Moss-covered trees line the way, taking you over two creeks and down whimsical paths. The trails aren’t particularly well signed, so ensure you download a trail app or a map to see you through. Or, go in blind and see where it takes you! When you make it out to the other end, you’re steps away from the diverse Bishop Arts District. The artsy neighbourhood is teeming with brunch spots, independent stores, street art, and hipster coffee shops to explore.
