I Wandered Off-The-Beaten-Path And Discovered This Quiet And Peaceful Walking Trail In Texas
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 31, 2024
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
I’m a big nature lover, so when I get the chance to visit a nature trail in Texas, I jump at it. One of my current favorites is the Gulf Terrace Hike and Bike Trail in Beaumont. Although it’s in a city, it feels like an entirely different world full of lush greenery and native wildlife, and I truly can’t get enough.
Fully paved and under four miles long, the Gulf Terrace Hike and Bike Trail is a hidden gem in Beaumont, Texas perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It has zero elevation, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nice, leisurely stroll.
Katie Lawrence OIYS
There are several shelters along the trail to protect walkers against sun and rain, and they also feature benches if you want to sit and relax for a bit.
The trail is a loop with two separate parking areas. If you start on the Dishman Road side, you'll walk the full 3.6 miles, but if you're in the mood for a shorter walk, you can park on Phelan Boulevard, which brings it down to just two miles.
Surrounding a big field brimming with lush greenery, the trail makes you feel like you aren't even in the city anymore. Although it is popular, it isn't always crowded, so there's a good chance that at least part of your journey will be in solitude.
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My favorite thing about the trail is its abundance of wildlife. A local farm owns most of the surrounding fields and uses them to graze its cows. Aren't these calves just adorable?
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The trail is also very dog-friendly, so you'll see lots of cute pooches!
I even saw an owl once when I visited the trail at night. Perched on a treetop, its silhouette is hauntingly beautiful. I'm so happy I was able to get a picture before it flew away!
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Sunrise and sunset are my favorite times to spend here. I love to pop over to the adjacent soccer fields and watch as the sun rises or sets above or below the trees.
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You may even see a double rainbow if you're lucky!
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Although there are roads and a neighborhood near the trail, the noise is never excessive, so rest assured you'll enjoy plenty of peace and quiet.
Katie Lawrence OIYS
You can visit AllTrails to learn more about the Gulf Terrace Hike and Bike Trail. If you’re interested in additional perks like offline map access, be sure to sign up for AllTrails+!
Have you ever been to this peaceful nature trail in Texas? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article below for a quirky roadside attraction you can’t miss while you’re in town.
