FreeCedar Ridge Preserve: Hill Country Escarpment Winter Hiking in Dallas
Visit on your scheduleNov 1 – Feb 28 · 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Tue–Sun 6:30 AM–Dusk (Gates lock strictly at sunset; closed Mondays for habitat rest; check online for soft-surface trail closures after heavy rain)
Cedar Ridge Preserve7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75249 · 12.5 mi approx. from Dallas–Fort WorthDirections
All ages welcome; foot traffic only (no bikes or motorized vehicles); leashed dogs allowed; trails include steps and steep rocky inclines suitable for sturdy walking shoes
FreeFree admission; $5 suggested donation directly supports Audubon Dallas volunteer trail maintenance
About this adventure
Perched dramatically along the White Rock Escarpment in southwest Dallas, Cedar Ridge Preserve feels more like the rugged Texas Hill Country than typical flat North Texas terrain. Managed by Audubon Dallas across 600 pristine acres, the preserve climbs to elevations exceeding 880 feet, providing invigorating climbs and breathtaking panoramic vistas overlooking Mountain Creek Lake and Joe Pool Lake. Winter brings the crispest, clearest hiking weather of the year, making the preserve's 9 miles of unpaved, multi-tier trails an absolute joy to conquer without the punishing summer heat. Families love the moderate Escarpment Trail for its scenic canyon overlooks, the Fossil Valley Trail with its ancient marine limestone formations, and the Cattail Pond Trail, which descends down to a serene natural pond and viewing deck surrounded by native Ashe juniper and cedar elms. Entry is free with a suggested $5 donation.
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