Top 7 Family Friendly Dallas Bike Trails

While Dallas may not be known for its biking community, there are plenty of Dallas bike trails worth checking out. From urban trails connecting businesses and shoppers to quiet natural beauty, Dallas seems to have it all. We’ve gathered our favorite family-friendly Dallas bike trails so you don’t have to worry. Just pick a trail below, grab your biking gear, and head out. Oh, and don’t forget the kids!

Trinity Skyline Trail

Bringing visitors close to the Trinity River, the Trinity Skyline Trail offers stunning views of the Dallas skyline. With 4.6 miles of hard surface trails and no motorized vehicles to contend with, this path is perfect for families with kiddos. Whether they’re on the back of your bike or testing out their own skills, exploring the Trinity river is fun for everyone. Make sure to check out the Continental Avenue Bridge which features novelties such as geometric climbing blocks, a life-size chess board, and a splash park. A map of the trail shows traiheads as well as a future phase currently in planning.

Katy Trail

This 3.5-mile trail links the business district with shopping and recreational opportunities and has become an iconic destination for residents of Dallas. What was once an abandoned railroad has been converted into a beautiful greenbelt for the local community to enjoy. The Katy Trail is open from 5am-midnight, making it a great place for a night ride. If you’re more into afternoon rides, stop at one of the parks along the way to let the kiddos off the bikes for a bit of cross-training. Hopefully, it will wear them out before bedtime! A map with access points and parking is provided by Friends of the Katy Trail.

Santa Fe Trail

A quiet pathway leading to several of Dallas’ cultural and natural landmarks, the Santa Fe Trail is located in lower-East Dallas. It runs along a former railroad right of way for 4 miles and connects White Rock Lake with several neighborhoods before ending at the Deep Ellum Trailhead. Along the 12 ft wide concrete path, you’ll find commuters, families, shoppers, athletes, and artists. Make a plan for your outing with this map.

White Rock Creek Trail

Located in northeast Dallas this trail links White Rock Lake Park to several of the other trails in the area. The path runs for about 8 miles. To lengthen your ride, stop off in one of the many parks near by including Valley View Park, Anderson-Bonner Park, and Harry S. Moss Park. The trail is mostly flat and paved making it a great place to try out your new bike trailer or to let the kids practice on their own bikes. An added plus is the shade provided by the surrounding trees – although we still recommend packing water and sunscreen for everyone. Check out this map to find parking and plan your route.

Bachman Lake Park Trail

This 3.5-mile trail loops around Bachman Lake inside the park. The exercise stations along the path make it perfect for those cross training or who have kiddos who need frequent breaks. Bachman Lake Park is just North of the Love Field Airport which provides plenty of opportunities for plane loving littles to catch a glimpse. Watching the planes overhead from one of the picnic areas is a great way to relax after a bike ride. Pack a lunch, a picnic blanket, and a camera to capture the moments.  Use this map to view the park and trail before heading out.

Glendale Park Trail

Are you ready to get loopy? The 1.5 mile Glendale Park Loop is actually two loops – one on either side of Five Mile Creek. There is a nice pedestrian bridge connecting the two loops. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and tennis courts. Both loops are concrete and can be accessed on either side of the creek. The Northern loop of the trail provides more shade than the Southern loop so keep that in mind when planning your trip. View a map showing both pathways and parking areas then get ready to enjoy the ride.

Arbor Hills Trail

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of off-road and family-friendly then the Arbor Hills Trail is the place for you. There are 3 miles of paved path within the 200-acre wooded nature preserve which lead to several unpaved hiking and mountain biking trails. When you tire of cycling, climb up the observation tower for a spectacular view of Plano. Make sure you’re on the right trail with this map of the trail system. You’ll also want to bring a camera to capture the natural beauty of the three distinct ecoregions located within the preserve.

No matter what type of trail you’re into or what level of experience you have, you’ll find the perfect path in Dallas. When you’re ready, pick your favorite Dallas bike trail from the list above, grab your biking essentials, and get ready to enjoy the ride.

Image Sources:

Trinity Skyline Trail – Ben E.

Katy Trail – William M.

Santa Fe Trail – Tim V.

White Rock Creek – Jeff B.

Bachman Lake – Phillmore S.

Glendale Park – Durae J.

Arbor Hills – Allie Y.