Texas: #34 of 99 state parks
Best Long Trails in Hill Country State Natural Area
Explore the most popular long in Hill Country State Natural Area with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you.
Top trails (6)
- Creek Bottom Trail, Vista Ridge, and West PeakModerate•4.6(217)#1 - Creek Bottom Trail, Vista Ridge, and West PeakLength: 9.2 mi•Est. 3h 50mThis epic hike highlights three main trails at Hill Country State Natural Area. Many sections of the trail are loose and rocky, and proper footwear is recommended to navigate through the challenging terrain. There are great views of classic hill country scenery, and many opportunities to observe native wildlife in the area.
- Spring Branch, Wilderness Trail, and Ice Cream HillModerate•4.7(143)#2 - Spring Branch, Wilderness Trail, and Ice Cream HillLength: 7.4 mi•Est. 3h 4mMany sections of this trail are exposed and bringing sun protection is advised. The Ice Cream Trail is one of the most difficult trails in the park due to the challenging terrain with many rocky portions. There is a decent amount of elevation gain spread out between the rolling hills. Wildlife can be seen in many areas, especially near the Wilderness Camp Area.
- Cougar Canyon to Hermit's Trace LoopModerate•4.6(97)#3 - Cougar Canyon to Hermit's Trace LoopLength: 7.4 mi•Est. 2h 51mThis route is a great way to experience the beautiful scenery of hill country. There is a mix of terrain along this trail with sections of challenging loose rock, mixed with relatively flat areas. The east section of the trail is generally shaded, while other portions along the way can be hot and exposed to the sun.
- Wilderness, Ice Cream, Spring Hill, and Bandera Creek TrailModerate•4.6(69)#4 - Wilderness, Ice Cream, Spring Hill, and Bandera Creek TrailLength: 6.9 mi•Est. 2h 34mGet a full-value tour of Hill Country State Natural Area by hiking this incredibly scenic loop. This trail features rolling hills through a beautiful landscape with partial sun and shade. There are a decent amount of loose rocks on the Ice Cream Trail, which can make for some challenging terrain. Wildlife can often be spotted in the more secluded areas along Bandera Creek.
- Medina, Eagle, Cedar, and Wildlife LoopModerate•4.0(33)#5 - Medina, Eagle, Cedar, and Wildlife LoopLength: 7.4 mi•Est. 2h 44mThis route features classic Texas hill country scenery, with many chances to observe wildlife in the area. The trail is overall well maintained, and there are sections of loose rock with a mix of flat and exposed areas. There are several options of trails to either shorten or lengthen this route to your desired length.
- Medina and Pasture LoopModerate•4.5(12)#6 - Medina and Pasture LoopLength: 6.0 mi•Est. 2h 15mThe majority of this trail is exposed and travels through open fields- bringing sun protection is advised. The Medina Loop can be challenging with loose rocky terrain and short climbs while the Pasture Loop is flat and enjoyable. Along the way, visitors can see remnants of the previous ranch as well as an oak oasis providing nice shade to rest beneath.
Helpful reviews of trails in Hill Country State Natural Area
This part of the trail was super easy and pretty. It wasn't hot or sunny, so that helped the experience a lot. You'll need a map from the office. Not all the trails are listed on this app, and sometimes it looks like there is a shortcut when it's not. Over all I had a great time. No benches, bathrooms, pavement, or trash cans. Lots of horse poop though. I need to bring more water next time.
