Easy Family Hiking Trails Near Houston

If there is one thing you can always find in Houston, it's a place to walk. There are numerous hiking trails located throughout the city, most of which are easy enough to accommodate walkers of all ages and fitness levels. Houston is a relatively flat city, so you don't find the steep grades common to other areas of the country.

Terry Hershey Park

This is one of my favorite places to take my family because there is always something new to explore. Terry Hershey Park offers over twelve miles of hiking trails that meander through West Houston. It's an extremely safe complex of hiking trails because there are always people out'"walking dogs, pushing strollers, jogging with friends.

You can find entrances to Terry Hershey Park from Barker Dam to the Belt. If you're walking with children, pick a place between major cross-streets; for example, between Dairy Ashford and Kirkwood. We often park at the lot off Memorial Drive, but there is also parking available at Beltway 8.

Mercer Arboretum

North of Houston, in Spring, Texas, is Mercer Arboretum, a small but dense wildlife preserve with several miles of hiking trails. Dogs, roller skates, rollerblades, and bicycles are permitted in the portion of the arboretum to the west of Aldine Westfield. The botanical gardens on the east side of the street, however, are more restricted.

In addition to hiking trails, Mercer is also a quiet Houston location for bird watching and for photography. There are lots of different plants and animals found inside, and guided bird tours are sometimes offered. Hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Discovery Green

If you prefer your hiking trails in a more urban environment, Discovery Green has become a popular destination for walkers and bikers. Discovery Green is located downtown on about 12 acres, and there are more hills here than in other parts of the city. Walk the cement trails throughout the park or venture onto the green. There are also other opportunities for exercise, such as hula hooping and cycling.

You can visit Discovery Green from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day, and admission is free unless a special event is taking place.

Memorial Park Conservancy

The Memorial Park Conservancy is perfect for those who like hiking trails with a bit more woods. There are thirty miles of trails in this 1,500-acre park, which is located at I-10 and the 610 loop. It's open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., regardless of the weather and even on holidays.