Introduction
If you’re itching for an adventure that blends nature, movement, and a break from city life, biking road trips from Dallas offer the perfect escape. With just a short drive, you can be cruising along lakefront paths, diving into shaded forest loops, or tackling rugged off-road trails through open countryside. Spring and fall make these getaways even better, with crisp air and colorful landscapes enhancing every mile.
Whether you’re a casual weekend pedaler or a seasoned cyclist looking for challenging terrain, North Texas has a trail with your name on it. From serene greenways to adrenaline-pumping singletracks, these biking trails offer the freedom to explore new scenery at your own pace. In this guide, we’ll take you to ten must-ride biking trails near Dallas—complete with detailed directions, insider tips, and everything you need to turn a simple ride into a full-on road trip experience.
Why Dallas Is a Perfect Launchpad for Biking Road Trips
Dallas sits at the heart of some of Texas’s best biking landscapes, offering quick access to lakes, forests, and scenic routes for every kind of rider.
Thanks to its central location and proximity to diverse terrains, Dallas makes an ideal home base for biking adventures. Within a 1–2 hour drive, you can find everything from urban greenbelts to wild, rocky trails that challenge even the most experienced mountain bikers. Many trails are located within state parks or protected preserves, ensuring both scenic beauty and well-maintained routes.
Spring and fall are especially great for biking near Dallas, when temperatures are comfortable and the landscape is rich with wildflowers, shaded canopies, or golden grasses. And because these routes are spread across different directions—north, south, east, and west—you’ll always find a new path to explore regardless of where you’ve ridden before. Whether you’re planning a half-day ride or a weekend cycling trip, the Dallas area has countless options to fuel your two-wheeled wanderlust.
1. Northshore Trail
Northshore Trail, stretching along the northern edge of Grapevine Lake, is a top destination for mountain biking near Dallas. This 22-mile out-and-back singletrack trail is managed by DORBA and offers a thrilling experience through rocky terrain, wooded sections, and beautiful lake vistas. It’s well-loved for its variety—smooth rolling areas alternate with rock gardens, tight switchbacks, and challenging climbs. While beginners can tackle the easier sections, the trail is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders due to its technical demands.
Divided into multiple segments, riders can choose to ride short loops or commit to the full route. Murrell Park serves as the main trailhead, with restrooms, parking, and picnic spots available. The trail follows the shoreline, offering moments of tranquility between the adrenaline rushes. It’s one of the most scenic and well-kept off-road experiences near Dallas.
Address: 2908 N Park Dr, Flower Mound, TX 75022
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Rocky climbs, lake views, and one of the top-rated mountain biking trails in Texas
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and carry extra hydration—the exposed sections can get hot midday.
2. Cedar Hill State Park Trails
Cedar Hill State Park is a biking oasis just 30 minutes from downtown Dallas. Nestled along the eastern shore of Joe Pool Lake, the park features a 12-mile mountain biking trail network built and maintained by DORBA. The terrain here is ideal for beginners and intermediate riders—rolling hills, winding singletrack, and a few rocky stretches that add just the right level of challenge.
The trail system includes multiple loops, so you can customize your ride based on time and experience. Shaded woodlands offer a cool, scenic ride in spring and fall, while the open meadows bloom with wildflowers in early April. The park’s paved roads also make it family-friendly for casual cyclists. In addition to the trails, the park has lake access, camping areas, and picnic tables—perfect for turning your ride into a full-day road trip or weekend getaway.
Address: 1570 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult
Famous For: Shaded forest trails and beginner-friendly loops near a beautiful lake
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ride early on weekends to enjoy cooler temps and fewer crowds, and bring bug spray in warmer months.
3. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Tucked into the heart of South Dallas, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offers a rare mix of urban access and natural escape. This 121-acre preserve is home to a network of approximately 8 miles of multi-use trails, primarily used by mountain bikers and hikers. The loops wind through thick woods, open fields, and gentle elevation changes, making it a favorite for intermediate riders who want a close-to-home adventure.
Despite being inside city limits, the trails are surprisingly peaceful and scenic. The layout includes several short loops that can be combined for a longer ride, with markers to guide you along the way. The terrain isn’t highly technical but has enough twists, small drops, and tree-lined curves to keep your ride interesting. The preserve is also a haven for birds, butterflies, and wildflowers, especially in the spring.
Address: 2875 Pierce St, Dallas, TX 75233
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Urban woodland trails with a natural feel and flowy ride
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for weekday rides when it’s less busy—bring your own water as facilities are limited.
4. Ray Roberts Lake State Park Greenbelt Trail
The Greenbelt Trail at Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a scenic and serene option for riders seeking longer, flatter routes with natural beauty. Located about an hour north of Dallas, the trail stretches over 20 miles and connects Ray Roberts Lake to Lake Lewisville, following the Elm Fork of the Trinity River. It’s ideal for cyclists who enjoy gravel paths, riverside riding, and peaceful surroundings without technical obstacles.
The crushed limestone trail is well-maintained and features multiple access points, including the Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch units of Ray Roberts Lake. Riders pass through open prairie, hardwood forests, and wetlands, with occasional wildlife sightings and plenty of spring wildflowers. It’s a versatile ride—perfect for gravel bikers, hybrids, or anyone who prefers a smoother surface over rough terrain.
Address: 100 PW 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult
Famous For: Long, scenic gravel route linking two lakes through forest and riverside views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check for flooding before your trip—low-lying sections near the river may be closed after heavy rain.
5. Knob Hills Trail
Knob Hills Trail, located near Roanoke and the shores of Lake Grapevine, is a hidden gem for mountain bikers in North Texas. With over 13 miles of twisty singletrack, it offers an exciting mix of technical sections, fast-flowing curves, and peaceful wooded scenery. The trail is a favorite among intermediate and advanced riders looking for a rewarding challenge without having to drive too far from Dallas.
The terrain includes rocky climbs, creek crossings, and tight switchbacks that demand attention and skill, but it also rewards with quiet lake views and long stretches of natural solitude. The trail is well-marked and primarily used by mountain bikers, though it’s also open to hikers and trail runners. Maintained by DORBA, the route stays in great condition year-round, especially during the dry spring and fall months.
Address: 2001 Fairway Dr, Roanoke, TX 76262
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Remote feel, technical terrain, and lakefront singletrack through untouched nature
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ride clockwise for better flow, and avoid after rain—the trail becomes slick and muddy fast.
6. Big Cedar Wilderness Trails
Located in southwest Dallas, the Big Cedar Wilderness Trails are legendary among local mountain bikers for their elevation, variety, and forested seclusion. Originally developed on private land and now open through a public-private partnership, this expansive trail system offers around 20 miles of singletrack, making it the highest-elevation trail network in North Texas. The terrain ranges from flowing sections and scenic overlooks to steep, technical climbs that push even seasoned riders.
What sets Big Cedar apart is its diversity—you’ll encounter switchbacks, rocky outcrops, wooden bridges, and fast descents. The trail network is well-marked and includes beginner-friendly loops as well as challenging black-diamond routes. With wide views over Joe Pool Lake and dense tree cover in spring and fall, the trails feel more like a trip into the Texas Hill Country than something inside city limits.
Address: 8991-8999 Isom Ln, Dallas, TX 75249
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Highest elevation biking in DFW, scenic vistas, and technical trail design
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Best ridden in dry weather—check DORBA trail status before heading out as closures are frequent after rain.
7. Harry Moss Park Trail
Nestled in North Dallas near White Rock Creek, Harry Moss Park Trail is a fast, flowy, and fun option for beginner and intermediate mountain bikers. The 5.5-mile loop offers a great introduction to off-road cycling with its smooth dirt paths, gentle curves, and small elevation changes. Managed by DORBA, this trail is one of the few in Dallas proper, making it an ideal choice for quick weekday rides or casual weekend spins.
Although it’s not overly technical, Harry Moss keeps things interesting with wooden bridges, creek crossings, and tree-lined switchbacks. It’s well-shaded in the spring and summer, and the trail’s winding design through native hardwood forest gives a feeling of being deep in nature despite being minutes from downtown. Wildflowers and native grasses also add a scenic touch in the spring months.
Address: 7601 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75231
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Quick access, beginner-friendly trail with urban forest charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for improving cornering skills and building trail confidence. Combine with a ride along nearby White Rock Lake for a longer adventure.
8. Gateway Park
Gateway Park in Fort Worth is home to one of the largest urban trail systems in North Texas, offering nearly 15 miles of mountain biking bliss. Just an hour from Dallas, this destination is perfect for riders seeking a well-maintained, scenic, and flowing ride with variety. The trail system is divided into multiple loops of increasing difficulty—from beginner-friendly green trails to more challenging blue and black diamond routes.
The terrain is a balanced mix of smooth singletrack, creek crossings, short climbs, and open field sprints. What makes Gateway special is how it transitions between dense forest sections and wide prairie openings, giving riders both shade and scenery. It’s an ideal spot for weekend rides, especially in spring when the nearby Trinity River and surrounding meadows are alive with greenery and blooming flowers.
Address: 4321 E 1st St, Fort Worth, TX 76117
Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Multi-difficulty urban trail system with riverside views and diverse terrain
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start early to explore all the loops—there’s enough trail here to keep you busy for hours, and trail maps are posted at main intersections.
9. Denton Katy Trail
The Denton Katy Trail is a hidden gem for road cyclists and gravel bikers looking for a scenic, low-stress ride. Stretching about 8 miles, this converted rail trail runs from Denton to Lake Dallas along a mostly flat, crushed limestone path. It’s perfect for all skill levels, offering a smooth ride through wooded areas, open fields, and suburban greenbelts with very little elevation change or technical difficulty.
What makes the Denton Katy Trail unique is its peaceful atmosphere. With fewer crowds than major city trails, it provides a quiet and relaxing experience while still offering amenities like rest stops and nearby cafés. The trail connects directly to the Denton Branch Rail Trail, creating opportunities for longer rides or connecting into downtown Denton for a post-ride meal or coffee. It’s also ideal for families or cyclists looking for an easy-paced outing.
Address: 604 E Hickory St, Denton, TX 76205
Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Relaxed gravel trail with tree-shaded stretches and easy riding near Denton
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ride in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures, and grab brunch in Denton’s town square before heading back.
Must-Have Packing Tips for Your Dallas Biking Road Trip
Smart packing can turn a good biking trip into a great one. Here’s what to bring for comfort, safety, and performance on the trails near Dallas.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottles: North Texas heat sneaks up fast—carry at least 1–2 liters of water, especially on longer trails.
Trail Map or Offline GPS App: Many trails lose signal; download maps in apps like Trailforks or AllTrails before heading out.
Multi-Tool Kit & Spare Tube: Flat tires and minor repairs are common. A patch kit, tire levers, and portable pump are essential.
Snacks & Electrolytes: Energy bars, trail mix, or electrolyte chews keep you fueled during longer rides.
Helmet & Gloves: Non-negotiable for safety. Gloves also help with grip and reduce hand fatigue.
Bug Spray & Sunscreen: Essential in spring and summer, especially on forested or lakeside trails.
Light Jacket or Layers: Weather can shift unexpectedly, especially during early morning or late evening rides.
First-Aid Kit: Small cuts and scrapes are common—pack band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and athletic tape.
Saddle Bag or Backpack: Store your gear without weighing down your ride.
Trash Bag: Pack out whatever you bring in. Leave no trace and keep trails beautiful.
Best Food & Drink Spots Near Dallas Biking Trails
After a long ride, there’s nothing better than a good meal or refreshing drink. These cyclist-friendly spots are close to major trails and worth the stop.
1. The Island Bar & Grill
Located near Lake Texoma and close to the Cross Timbers Trail, this laid-back lakeside spot serves burgers, catfish, and cold drinks with a view. It’s a great post-ride hangout after a morning on the trails or water. Expect live music on weekends and a crowd of fellow adventurers.
Address: 300 Little Mineral Blvd, Pottsboro, TX 75076
Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Fri–Sun), closed Mon–Thu
Approx Cost: $10–$20 per person
Famous For: Lakeside burgers, fried catfish, and casual post-trail vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try to get a patio table for sunset views, and call ahead for hours during the off-season.
2. East Side Denton
This popular bar and food truck park sits right along the Denton Katy Trail and is perfect for recharging with tacos, craft beer, or a hearty sandwich. Cyclists love the casual, dog-friendly atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Address: 117 E Oak St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM daily
Approx Cost: $8–$15 per person
Famous For: Rotating food trucks and 80+ beer taps in a chill, bike-friendly courtyard
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a bike lock and grab a table under the oak trees—live music starts around sunset on weekends.
3. Grapevine Craft Brewery
Located near Northshore Trail, this local brewery is a rider favorite. They often host bike groups and have a spacious patio for unwinding. Grab a cold IPA and pair it with food truck fare or weekend events.
Address: 906 Jean St, Grapevine, TX 76051
Hours: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Mon–Fri), 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Sat–Sun)
Approx Cost: $6–$8 per pint
Famous For: Trail-friendly vibes and Texas-made brews in a cycling-friendly location
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit on Thursdays for live music and discounted pints after your ride at Northshore.
Top Accommodations for Biking Road Trips Near Dallas
Whether you’re planning a weekend trail adventure or a road trip getaway, these accommodations offer comfort, proximity to top trails, and cyclist-friendly amenities.
1. Nylo Dallas Plano Hotel
Located near Legacy Trail and just a short drive to Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, Nylo blends modern comfort with industrial-chic design. Cyclists appreciate the spacious rooms, bike storage options, and easy access to both paved and natural trails. Plus, nearby dining makes it easy to refuel post-ride.
Address: 8201 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75024
Hours: Check-in 3:00 PM, Check-out 11:00 AM
Approx Cost: $140–$180 per night
Famous For: Trendy boutique hotel near major biking routes and greenbelts
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for a room facing the pool courtyard—quieter and perfect for resting after long rides.
2. The Ashton Hotel – Fort Worth
Just minutes from Gateway Park, The Ashton offers a luxurious stay with historic charm. It’s a great base for urban bikers who want to ride by day and enjoy city dining and entertainment by night. Secure bike storage is available on request.
Address: 610 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
Hours: Check-in 3:00 PM, Check-out 11:00 AM
Approx Cost: $180–$220 per night
Famous For: Historic downtown boutique hotel with cyclist accessibility
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Plan a sunset ride at Trinity Trails, just 10 minutes away, before dining in Sundance Square.
3. Lone Star Lodge and Marina
For cyclists exploring Ray Roberts Lake or the Greenbelt Trail, Lone Star Lodge offers rustic lakeside cabins and lodge rooms. The location is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for riders who want to combine trails with lake views, sunsets, and outdoor charm.
Address: 2200 FM 1192, Pilot Point, TX 76258
Hours: Check-in 3:00 PM, Check-out 11:00 AM
Approx Cost: $120–$160 per night
Famous For: Cabin-style rooms near lakefront biking and fishing areas
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your bike inside your cabin for safe storage, and enjoy sunrise rides on nearby gravel trails.
Local Tips and Seasonal Events for Dallas Biking Adventures
Timing and preparation can make or break a biking road trip. Here are expert tips and seasonal events to plan the perfect ride near Dallas.
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and scenic trails with wildflowers or fall foliage.
Avoid Summer Afternoons: North Texas heat and humidity can be intense—ride early mornings or near sunset in summer.
Check Trail Conditions: Visit DORBA.org for real-time trail updates and closures, especially after rain.
Join a Local Ride: Many trails host weekend group rides open to the public. Check local Facebook biking groups or trailhead boards.
Bike Races & Festivals:
Tour d’Argyle (March): A gravel ride through Denton County with scenic views and multiple routes.
Texas Mountain Bike Racing Association Series (Spring/Fall): Competitive races often held on trails like Knob Hills and Gateway Park.
Bike Rentals Available: Don’t have a bike? Try Richardson Bike Mart or Playtri Dallas for rentals, gear, and trail advice.
Trail Etiquette: Yield to hikers, stay on marked trails, and avoid skidding around corners to help preserve the paths.
Final Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking a weekend thrill or a peaceful ride through blooming landscapes, the biking trails near Dallas deliver unforgettable road trip experiences. With a mix of rugged singletracks, lakeside routes, and urban greenways, there’s a perfect trail for every rider.
So pump up your tires, pack your gear, and hit the road—your next adventure on two wheels is waiting just beyond the city limits.
