Cedar Ridge Preserve

THIS IS A REAL TRAIL (bring water🧊) You want to get a workout, then come here! This trail will test your mental and physical strength with quite a few incline and descending areas. Be aware that you may walk up on snakes, but I’ve mostly seen them in the morning before it’s too hot. The trail is lengthy and can take an hour plus. There are nice scenic views and a pond with fish and turtles (catch and release only). This park is great for the family… who can keep up. Just make sure to bring water and good shoes because you’re going to sweat.

Cedar Ridge Outer Loop is definitely one of the best hiking spots around DFW for anyone who enjoys nature and peaceful trails. The trail is very well marked, easy to follow, and mostly shaded, which makes the hike much more enjoyable even on warmer days. The views and greenery along the loop make it feel like a quick escape from the city. The only challenging part honestly is getting into the parking lot on busy weekends. Parking is free, but the lot fills up very quickly, and sometimes they only allow one car in when another car leaves. Thankfully, there’s an open ground nearby where you can park, but be ready for a little extra walk to reach the trailhead. Overall, it’s a beautiful & well-maintained place for hiking, whether you’re going solo, with friends or with family. Highly recommend going early in the morning if visiting on weekends.

Gorgeous trails! I loved the elevation gains and views. There was a lot of poison ivy, but it was to the side of the trails. Make sure you don't leave the beaten path or you might get an itchy surprise. We stayed on the trail, though, so the only surprises we got were the stunning views.

If you need to change up your workout once in a while, I recommend hiking these trails. If you want a good long workout, go early in the morning so you have more time to take the numerous twists and turns. There is great inclines for leg day. As for parking, the inside small lots get packed and the line to go in runs down the road. There’s a small public park down from the entrance, I’d park there and just walk up the sidewalk to not even mess with trying to park inside. Free for all and dogs are welcome.

Nestled in the heart of nature, Cedar Ridge Preserve offers a refreshing escape from the city with its scenic trails, diverse terrain, and tranquil environment. It’s a nice place for anyone seeking a peaceful yet invigorating outdoor experience. One of the preserve’s most appealing features is its variety of trails, catering to hikers of all age levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more demanding climb, there’s a path for you. The trails wind through shaded woodlands and open areas, occasionally rising to vantage points that reward visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding towns—an absolutely breathtaking sight, especially around sunset. Despite the Texas heat, the interior of the preserve remains surprisingly moderate in temperature, even when it’s over 90 degrees outside. This makes it possible to enjoy a summer hike without the discomfort of extreme heat, thanks in part to the shaded areas and natural canopy of trees. Adding to its charm, Cedar Ridge Preserve includes a lake that enhances the area’s serenity and provides a peaceful spot to rest and reflect. The trails’ elevation changes—ups and downs that challenge without overwhelming—add just the right amount of difficulty to keep hikers engaged. Overall, Cedar Ridge Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with the outdoors in a beautiful, well-maintained setting.