Best Summer Backpacking Trips Near DFW
To appease avid hikers and backpackers, Texas has stocked itself with countless state parks, which make for some of the best recreational exploratory fun. One such lesser-known, but valuable, stomping ground would be Meridian State Park. Overall, the park spans 72 acres with spectacular scenery for those who enjoy spotting birds as they tread along. As a bonus, Meridian State Park is known for random fossil finds. For those who enjoy a little adventure with their backpacking, there are hiking areas here only reachable by crossing a dry creek. Instead of dodging pedestrian and biking traffic, put that backpack to good use and take it someplace new, like Meridian State Park.
Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway is only a short commute from the DFW area and well-known for its unique features. It's perfect for rock climbing, but don't limit the potential of this site to just the vertical. Horizontal thrills await backpackers here, too. Hikers are welcome to traverse the bridges and fields that surround the rocky areas leading to the Weatherford and Mineral Wells Trailheads.
Purtis Creek State Park combines attractive biking and hiking trails for the backpacker who likes hiking boots and wheels. Try a combination day over the Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail. Measuring in at over four miles, this backpacking route offers plenty of options as well as beautiful views, and not too far of a drive from Dallas. Also open is the nearly two-mile Beaver Slide Nature Path that winds along the watery borders of the lake, perfect for catching a glimpse of native Texas wildlife. For those who enjoy admiring man-made beauty while backpacking, the Solar Trail at Purtis Creek State Park was created for varied levels of hiking skill, even beginners, with a view that inspires reflection.
Fort Richardson State Park, Historic Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway is a buffet of goodies for sufferers of wanderlust. From the enticing sites of preserved historical buildings to wildflower-watching and hiking, a trip to Fort Richardson State Park is like diving into the past and reconnecting with nature, flora and even oneself. This trail system flows as if designed to twist and turn with the most scenic aspects of the terrain. With winds that smell of oak and pecan, you might find yourself wandering to the trailhead and then back to the replicas of bunkers. The hike can take you over ten miles in distance, but at ten feet wide and with the soft surface, this backpacking trip will be so invigorating and refreshing, who wouldn't want to finish it?
Copper Breaks State Park features some covetous titles, including being the title of "International Dark Sky Park," meaning it is recognized as one of the few places around where the sky is clear and free of outside light pollution to really see in all its glory. Backpackers who aren't afraid of the dark should pounce on this park. Not only can Copper Breaks State Park brag about its nocturnal heavens, but it is also home to a piece of the official Texas Longhorn herd. That is not something you can see just anywhere. This place truly embodies the beauties of Texas. If you have your own horses and your feet grow weary, you can always put the equestrian trail to use, too. Not far from Quanah, those with a taste for history can find many treasures here on these nearly sacred grounds to warm their backpacking souls.
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