Top Hiking Trails in DFW to Explore Before SMU Faces Cal

As college football season progresses, finding pleasant hiking spots is essential for enjoying the outdoors without frigid temperatures. The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area offers great locations that are easily accessible to fans heading to see the 23rd-ranked SMU Mustangs take on the Cal Golden Bears this Saturday.

Despite common perceptions of DFW as mostly urban sprawl, there are beautiful hikes worth exploring. Cedar Ridge Preserve, located about 15 miles southwest of downtown Dallas, offers nearly nine miles of trails with stunning views, making it a perfect spot for fall hiking. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, in Plano, features trails and an observation tower with spectacular views of the fall foliage, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge showcases diverse ecosystems and includes bison, while Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offers 121 acres of natural beauty close to downtown Dallas, providing a tranquil escape for hikers and cyclists alike.