This week promises plenty of sunshine and pleasant weather, so take advantage before the chill sets in! Whether you're looking for family-friendly spots or dog-friendly trails, Local Profile has you covered with the best trails in Collin County and beyond.
Bluebonnet Trail — Plano
Where: K Ave. — Greenway Ave. and Midway Rd.
Length: 7.6 miles with shorter breakout trails
Amenities: Restrooms and parking
Bluebonnet Trail can be a bit challenging to find, but we’ve got the details you need! This 7.6-mile trail is dog-friendly, requiring leashes, and offers an easy walk suitable for kids. However, be prepared for limited shade, which can make it feel quite warm during unexpectedly hot fall days. Parking and restrooms are conveniently available at Carpenter Park.
If you're hoping to see bluebonnets, you can usually find them just before the intersection of Coit Road and Sailmaker Lane, but you’ll have to wait until spring to catch a glimpse.
Legacy Trail — Plano
Where: Rockledge Ln. — W Spring Creek Pkwy
Length: 4.4 miles
Amenities: Playground
Situated near Bluebonnet Trail, Legacy Trail is a great family-friendly option for walking, biking or running. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash.
The trail spans 4.4 miles one way and is fully paved. There's a playground nearby for families with young children, but keep in mind that shade is limited, so bring extra water on warmer days. The trail is usually quiet, making it ideal for new puppies or little ones to explore at their own pace.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve — Plano
Where: 6701 W Parker Rd
Length: 8.8 miles with shorter breakout trails
Amenities: Restrooms, parking, covered pavilion, playground
The park features a variety of scenic trails with creeks and small waterfalls, offering a fresh experience with each visit. There are plenty of grassy areas perfect for picnics or capturing Instagram-worthy photos. The trails include both paved and unpaved paths, so be sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty, especially during the rainy season.
Some trails may be closed at certain times of the year for maintenance, but there are always plenty of options for walkers and hikers of all levels to enjoy. Amenities include 3 miles of paved hiking trails, 3 miles of unpaved hiking trails, a 2.8-mile off-road bike trail, a covered pavilion and a playground. The pavilion is available for reservation for special events. Restrooms are on-site, and leashed pets are welcome.
Hoblitzelle Park Trail — Plano
Where: 7500 Red River Dr
Length: 1 mile with additional side trails
Amenities: Covered amphitheater, playground
Hoblitzelle Park Trail features a one-mile loop, but you can also find additional unpaved paths branching off the main trail. Overall, the trail spans approximately 3.4 miles, offering several opportunities to venture off the concrete and explore the surrounding “wilderness.” Keep in mind that non-venomous snakes may be present in some areas depending on the season, and bugs can be a nuisance near water, so be sure to bring bug spray and stay alert for any slithering companions.
The area is rich with lush trees and wildflowers, and the trail is conveniently located next to two playgrounds where kids can play in between walks. About halfway along the trail, you'll find a large covered amphitheater, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
Bob Woodruff Park Trail — Plano
Where: 2601 San Gabriel Dr
Length: 3.7 miles
Amenities: Restrooms, learning center
This trail features a loop with several branching paths throughout Bob Woodruff Park. It connects to the Santa Fe Trail and the Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve Trail, as well as various community amenities like the Outdoor Learning Center. Restrooms are conveniently located near the large duck pond at the southern end and at the northern end near Oak Point.
Chisholm Trail — Plano
Where: 401 W 16th Street
Length: 9.3 miles with shorter breakout trails
Amenities: Parking
Chisholm Trail is a fully paved hiking and biking path that winds along a scenic creek through central Plano. It begins at Harrington Park and extends north and west to Legacy Drive, intersecting with the Bluebonnet Trail at Jack Carter Park. This trail is popular for road biking, running and walking, so expect higher foot traffic on weekends. Open year-round, the trail welcomes dogs, provided they are kept on a leash.
Taychas Trail Park — Frisco
Where: West Rowlett Creek — Main Street
Length: 2.2 miles
Amenities: Picnic tables, wildlife viewing
The trail offers a paved surface for hiking or biking along Rowlett Creek, and the trailhead features an overlook with fascinating facts and historical information. Families can relax and enjoy the park’s offerings at the picnic tables and wildlife viewing area. Open year-round, the trail is a lovely destination at any time of year. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Erwin Park Trail — McKinney
Where: 4300 CR 1006
Length: 10 miles
Amenities: Covered pavilions, electricity, bike repair stations
This park offers plenty of space for hiking, biking and picnicking. With 10 miles of trails, it’s an excellent option for both beginner and intermediate mountain bikers. Along the trail, you'll find two Dero Bike Repair Stations equipped for minor repairs, complete with tools, bike stands and air pumps. Additionally, there are three covered pavilions with picnic tables, including the Pecan Grove Shelter, which features electricity.
Redding Trail — Addison
Where: 14705 Sherlock Dr
Length: 3.35 miles
Amenities: Benches, water fountains, art, dog run
Located in Addison, the Redding Trail is perfect for a quick stroll. The trail is divided into four segments: the North segment (from Dome Park north to Arapaho Road and is approximately 0.5 miles long), the south segment from Dome Park to George Bush Elementary School, this segment is also about 0.5 miles long), the east segment (around 0.35 miles to the Redding Trail Dog Park and will eventually connect to the Midway Road Trail) and west segment (about 0.5 miles to Marsh Lane).
Some parts of the trail are shaded, and you'll find water fountains with dog-friendly spots throughout. There are several benches for quick rests, and you'll come across various art pieces and sculptures along the way. At the end of the trail, there's a dog run where your furry friend can burn off some extra energy.
Northshore Trail — Flower Mound
Where: Twin Coves Park Rd
Length: 9 miles
Amenities: Parking (with fees)
Northshore Trail is an 18-mile out-and-back route considered moderate in difficulty, but the stunning views make it worthwhile. The trail is suitable for both cyclists and hikers, though it’s important to exercise caution in certain challenging areas. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
You can start your adventure at Rockledge Park, Twin Coves Park or Murrell Park, all of which provide trailheads and designated parking for your convenience. Please note that there is an entrance fee for Rockledge Park, while you can access the trail for free from Murrell Park and Twin Coves Park. At Twin Coves Park, parking just outside the gate allows you to access the Northshore Trail at no cost.
Don't miss anything Local. Sign up for our free newsletter.
