Social Distance with Nature
Compiled by Sue Mintz ~
As the days of social distancing add up in response to COVID-19, trails are places where people can continue to be physically active and find respite. Please help keep trails open for everyone by practicing physical distancing with at least 6 feet of space between you and other trail users.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve — 6701 W. Parker Rd., Plano
Located on the western border of Plano, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park featuring vast areas of natural beauty for walking, jogging, hiking, orienteering, and other outdoor activity. The observation tower gives a spectacular view of the city. https://www.plano.gov/facilities/facility/details/Arbor-Hills-Nature-Preserve-20
Addison Parks and Recreation
“Getting outside and exploring is a great way to escape the day-to-day rut, boost your energy levels, and enhance your health,” says Janna Tidwell, Addison’s Director of Parks and Recreation. “Addison has multiple trails that are great places to explore and get fresh air.” https://addisontexas.net/parksrec/fresh-air-and-exercise-while-social-distancing on the bank of the White Rock Creek and buffers Greenville Ave., Royal Ln., and Walnut Hill. It is a beginner to intermediate level with nearly six miles of mostly bench-cut single track to ride. The trail has very similar terrain to both Rowlett Creek Preserve and Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, but with more “human elements” incorporated into the flow. http://www.dallasparks.org/415/Harry-S-Moss
The Harry S Moss Park — 7601 Greenville Ave., Dallas
The 5.6-mile mountain bike trail runs along the bank of the White Rock Creek and buffers Greenville Ave., Royal Ln., and Walnut Hill. It is a beginner to intermediate level with nearly six miles of mostly bench-cut single track to ride. The trail has very similar terrain to both Rowlett Creek Preserve and Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, but with more “human elements” incorporated into the flow. http://www.dallasparks.org/415/Harry-S-Moss
L.B. Houston Nature Trails — California Crossing Trailhead — 1366 California Crossing Rd., Dallas
These nature trails are an excellent place for mountain bike riding, nature walking, and picnicking. It is a beginner to an intermediate 10-mile trail that is well marked, indicating turns and hills. https://www.dallasparks.org/418/LB-Houston
Piedmont Ridge Trail — 2400 Jim Miller Rd., Dallas
A 1.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Dallas that features a fabulous forest setting and is of a moderate level. The trail offers several activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs on a leash are welcome to walk with their pet parent. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/piedmont-ridge-trail
The Santa Fe Trail connects White Rock Lake with Fair Park and Deep Ellum and is one of the best kept “secrets” in all of the Dallas park systems. The paved trail is close to 4.5 miles long and 12 feet wide with plenty of space to take a stroll or ride a bike. There are many open stretches for experienced joggers or cyclists. https://www.traillink.com/trail/santa-fe-trail-(dallas)/
Valley View Park — 7000 Valley View Ln., Dallas
Ride your bike or run from here down to White Rock Lake, make a loop of the lake and head back! http://www.dallasparks.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Valley-View-Park-692
Anderson Bonner Park
This delightful park is located right off of Park Central and 635, a great place to start your cycling trek to White Rock Lake if you’re coming from North Dallas. http://www.dallasparks.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Anderson-Bonner-Park-395
Katie Jackson Park —4900 Havenwood Ln., Dallas
If you are looking for a nice quiet little park that has a beautiful walking path and super hiking trails, this is the place for you! The views are quite impressive, and the sound of the running brooks is a peaceful way to forget the stresses of the day. http://www.dallasparks.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Katie-Jackson-546
For more trails and descriptions, CLICK HERE.
**We encourage you to check the latest public health guidance from the CDC and Texas as well as the status of your trail before heading out! You can find local trail contact information in the “Related Content” section of each trail record.
Happy Trails!
