Best Hiking in San Antonio

By Kelsey Kennedy | February 11, 2025

I know that most people love to explore Colorado, Utah, and other obvious areas for the best hiking ....but as a Texas native, I’ve had to make do with what I’ve got here in this state! And it turns out that there’s actually some really great hiking in San Antonio and the surrounding areas. (Look for the map below of all of these hiking trails!)

No, there aren’t any mountains in SA. But there are some hilly areas with an elevation gain where you can get in a good uphill workout. San Antonio is also near several excellent state parks that have cold rivers, big trees, and lots of hiking trail options. And there are lots of hiking trails that are great for kids and pets (on a leash).

Of course, you could stay within the San Antonio city limits for hiking, too. I’ll include a few fun options for hiking in the city of San Antonio in case you just need a quick morning workout and a change of scenery.

When you’re hiking in Texas, be sure to always bring plenty of water so you stay hydrated, and pack bug spray and sunscreen. Oh, and look out for snakes during hikes; they’re plentiful here in South Texas. You might also see some cute wildlife, like deer and armadillos.

Grab your hiking shoes, pack some water and a snack, and get ready to hit the trail!

ABOUT US

We’re Kelsey and Sara, two local foodies with a combined 29 years of eating in San Antonio, two travel books, and millions of blog readers. We adore local spots, rarely visit chain restaurants, and we aren't afraid to tell you the truth. After spending thousands of our own $$$ at hundreds of local hot spots, we're sharing the best with you.

Best Hiking Trails in San Antonio

1. Eisenhower Park

Photo Credit: Yelp Lara L.

Eisenhower Park is a beautiful recreational area nestled in the Texas Hill Country about 15 miles from downtown. Located in the northwest side of the city adjacent to Camp Bullis, this park offers a serene and picturesque escape from the urban bustle.

Eisenhower boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails, providing outdoor enthusiasts with lots of opportunities to explore nature in Texas. Visitors can choose from 15 trails, each offering a unique experience, allowing hikers to tailor their adventure to their desired length and difficulty level.

The trails within Eisenhower Park vary in length, ranging from short loops of half miles to more extensive paths for full day hikes. This diversity caters to hikers of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned trekkers and casual walkers.

WEBSITE | 19399 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78257

2. Medina River Natural Area

Photo Credit: Yelp Emily A.

The Medina River Natural Area offers a lovely escape into nature! It’s conveniently located just 25 miles southwest of downtown San Antonio. This hidden gem is on the outskirts of the city, giving hikers a serene and scenic environment to explore.

The trail system offers a number of hiking routes, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. It offers a moderate level of difficulty with small grades of varying degrees, making it suitable for both avid hikers and those seeking a more casual walk. The terrain presents a mix of gentle slopes and occasional hills, providing a satisfying challenge without being overly strenuous.

Along the trails, hikers will encounter several notable landmarks that enhance the overall experience. You can even follow on the banks of the scenic Rio Medina, offering picturesque views of the tranquil river. This waterway adds a peaceful ambiance and serves as a refreshing backdrop during the hike.

WEBSITE | 15890 TX-16, San Antonio, TX 78264

3. Brackenridge Park

Brackenridge Park is great for hiking right in the middle of SA! A natural oasis situated within the heart of San Antonio, Brackenridge is just a few miles north of downtown right next to the zoo and Witte Museum. This expansive park offers a tranquil atmosphere away from the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

The park features a well-known 1.4-mile Wilderness Loop Trail, which has an average completion time at just 35 minutes. So it’s perfect for a quick walk, bike, run, or hike. In fact, this trail can typically accommodate most ADA wheelchairs/mobility equipment or stroller users.

The hiking trails within the park meander through the trees and near the river. All trails here are paved.

WEBSITE | 3700 N. St. Mary's St., San Antonio, TX 78209

4. Comanche Lookout Park

Photo Credit: Yelp Marcos D.

Comanche Lookout Park is a great little trail on the northside of San Antonio. It’s a 96-acre park with 4.55 miles of trails.

This place is an excellent spot for pet walkers (especially little dogs!) and hikers who are looking for a gentle form of exercise because almost all of the trails at Comanche Lookout Park are paved.

There are three different levels of difficulty within the park’s trail system: level 1 is paved trails with gentle slopes, level 2 is slightly more difficult paved trails (not more than 8.3% incline), and level 3 trails exceed the 8.3% incline for those who want a good hill workout. And then, of course, you can go “off-roading” and find some of the dirt paths in the middle of the trail. There's so much shade in this little park and it's honestly very enjoyable on a summer morning.

One of the coolest landmarks on this trail is the lookout point. It’s the 4th highest point in the city of San Antonio at 1,340 feet! It’s likely that Comanche Native Americans used this hill as a lookout point, hence the name of the park.

Comanche Lookout Park has its own dedicated parking lot at the trailhead.

WEBSITE | 15551 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247

5. The Mission Trail

The San Antonio Mission Trail is a historical and cultural gem located within the city of San Antonio, Texas. It is situated just a few miles south of downtown, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists.

The trail consists of walking paths that allow visitors to explore the rich history of San Antonio's five Spanish colonial missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and the Alamo. These aren’t standard hiking trails through Texas greenbelts….these trails offer an enriching walking experience, immersing visitors in the heritage and architecture of these iconic landmarks.

The length of each trail or loop within the Mission Trail varies, providing visitors with different options for exploration. Visitors can try a full Mission Trail hike, covering a 13.9-mile loop encompassing all five missions. (Psst: it’s best to bike this one - see details here!)

Alternatively, hikers can choose to explore shorter segments of the trail, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, depending on their time and interest.

Along the Mission Trail, hikers will encounter significant landmarks such as the missions themselves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Additionally, the trail weaves through beautiful landscapes, including the lush banks of the San Antonio River and picturesque stretches of San Antonio.

The most accessible part of the Mission Trail is the paved western side offering a 6.9 mile loop going counterclockwise. There are also some relatively flat terrains, making it more of a casual walk than a rigorous climb. The focus here is on leisurely exploration and appreciating the historical sites rather than conquering challenging hills or rugged landscapes.

WEBSITE | 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

6. McAllister Park

McAllister Park is a sprawling urban park located in northeast San Antonio, just 12 miles from downtown. It provides a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle while remaining conveniently located in SA.

The park boasts an extensive trail system, offering a diverse range of hiking options for outdoor enthusiasts. With a total of 4 major trails, McAllister Park caters to individuals of all skill levels.

The various trails within McAllister Park also vary in length, ranging from shorter loops of around half a mile to longer routes extending up to 5 miles. This allows hikers to customize their experience based on their preferences and time constraints.

While some trails may feature gentle slopes and minor elevation changes, they’re suitable for hikers of varying fitness levels. Families, kids, simple walkers, and joggers can all appreciate the park's trails without encountering significant challenges.

WEBSITE | 13102 Jones Maltsberger Rd, San Antonio, TX 78232

7. Garner State Park

Photo Credit:Yelp Lorijo E.

Garner State Park is such a gem! It’s located approximately 90 miles west of downtown San Antonio, and it’s well worth the drive. Situated in the Texas Hill Country, this popular park is nestled along the scenic Frio River.

The park features a total of 10 major hiking trails on which outdoor enthusiasts can explore its natural wonders. From leisurely walks to more challenging treks, there is something for everyone.

The lengths of the trails within Garner State Park vary, ranging from shorter loops of half a mile to longer routes spanning up to 3 miles. Hikers can choose the trails that best suit their preferences and desired level of difficulty.

One of the standout features of Garner State Park is its access to the crystal-clear Frio River. Hikers can take a refreshing dip in the river or simply enjoy the scenic beauty as they explore the trails. The park's hiking paths also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and Frio canyons.

The terrain in Garner State Park includes both moderate inclines and rugged sections, making it a mix of both a casual walk and a moderate climb. While there are hills, the trails are generally accessible to diverse hikers.

To enter Garner State Park, there is an admission fee of $8 per adult (age 13 and older), and free for children 12 and under.

WEBSITE | 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838

8. Friedrich Wilderness Park

Friedrich Wilderness Park is nestled in the city of San Antonio, providing a serene escape from the city's urban landscape. Located just 15 miles northwest of downtown, this natural oasis offers an excellent experience for nature trail enthusiasts.

The park boasts a total of 13 hiking trails that cater to a range of preferences and skill levels. From shorter loops to longer routes, visitors can choose the trail that suits their desired length and difficulty. Trails can range from approximately half a mile to 2 miles in length.

The park offers a mix of terrains, including gentle slopes and moderately hilly sections. While there are some challenging portions, the overall hiking experience is more of a moderate climb rather than an arduous ascent. It’s great for both casual walkers.

WEBSITE | 21395 Milsa Dr, San Antonio, TX 78256

9. Crownridge Canyon Park

Photo Credit:Yelp Blessing B.

Crownridge Canyon Park is situated in the hills of northwest San Antonio, offering a great hiking option just 18 miles from downtown.

The park offers three main hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, so whether you're seeking a relaxing stroll or a more challenging hike, there's a trail to suit your preferences. Trails can range from approximately half a mile to 2 miles in length, accommodating visitors with varying time constraints and levels.

Crownridge Canyon Park offers a mix of terrains, with some trails featuring gentle slopes and others incorporating more challenging inclines. While there are some small hills, the trails generally provide a moderate level of difficulty, making them suitable for casual walkers and those looking for a slightly harder workout.

WEBSITE | 7222 Luskey Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78256

10. Government Canyon State Natural Area

Government Canyon State Natural Area is great for a little hill country climb! This expansive natural area provides a stunning escape into the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

The park offers over 15 major trails ranging in trail lengths and difficulty levels, from shorter loops of around 1 mile to longer routes extending up to 13 miles. Whether you're seeking a quick hike or a full-day excursion, Government Canyon State Natural Area has trails to meet your preferences.

Government Canyon State Natural Area provides a diverse terrain with a mix of challenging hills and more relaxed pathways. Some trails feature steep climbs and rocky terrain, providing a more adventurous hiking experience, while others offer a more casual walk through picturesque landscapes. There are options for both seasoned hikers and casual walkers.

To enter Government Canyon State Natural Area, there is an admission fee of $6 per person aged 13 and older. Children 12 and under can enter for free. This fee covers the park's trails, picnic areas, and other amenities.

WEBSITE | 12861 Galm Rd, San Antonio, TX 78254

11. Guadalupe River State Park

Photo Credit:Yelp Jessie W.

Guadalupe River State Park is located approximately 30 miles north of downtown San Antonio and offers a scenic retreat on the outskirts of the city. Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River, this park provides a tranquil escape into nature.

Hikers can enjoy 13 hiking trails in the park with diverse trail lengths and difficulty levels. Trails can range from shorter loops of around half a mile to longer routes extending up to 5 miles.

One of the main attractions of Guadalupe River State Park is its namesake river. The hiking trails offer scenic views of the Guadalupe River, where visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and tubing during the summer months. It also features picturesque limestone cliffs and lush vegetation.

The terrain in Guadalupe River State Park offers a mix of moderate inclines and relatively flat sections, making it suitable for both casual walks and moderate hikes. While there are some hills to climb, the trails are generally accessible to all types of hikers.

Guadalupe River State Park has an admission fee of $7 per person aged 13 and older while 12-year-old children and under can enter for free.

WEBSITE | 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070

12. Castroville Regional Park

Photo Credit:Yelp Shohana B.

Located in the charming town of Castroville, Castroville Regional Park offers a peaceful retreat not too far from SA. It’s about 20 miles west of downtown San Antonio.

The park has 4 major hiking trails that offer several paths for visitors to explore. The various trails and loops within the park also vary in length, providing options for hikers of different preferences. It has shorter loops of around half a mile and longer routes extending up to a couple of miles.

Castroville Regional Park boasts scenic views of the Medina River natural area so hikers can enjoy glimpses of the river as they explore the trails, adding to the tranquil ambiance of the park.

The hiking trails in Castroville Regional Park generally offer a more casual walking experience with gentle terrain. While there may be some slight inclines and uneven surfaces, the trails are just ideal for all types of hikers.

WEBSITE | 816 Alsace Ave, Castroville, TX 78009