Best Hiking Trails in Waco, TX
Four routes worth lacing up for, from a 26-mile trail system to a flat two-mile walk on top of the dam.
Updated September 2026 · 4 spots covered · Distances & details verified
Cameron Park is going to be most people's first answer, and it should be, but Waco has a few other solid options if you want something flatter, shorter, or a little further out of town.
Texas heat is no joke on an exposed trail. Start early, carry water, and stick to shaded sections in the afternoon.
-Sam Harper
Cameron Park
Off University Parks Dr · ~26 miles of trails, National Recreation Trail system
Something for every skill level. New to the park? Start on the flat, shaded River Trail. Want the postcard shot? Head for Lover's Leap, the bluff overlooking the Brazos. Looking for a workout? Link Highlander, Sidewinder, and Root Canal for real elevation and technical footing. The trail network is dense, so grab the map at a kiosk or download the Cameron Park app before you go.
See the trail map →Waco Riverwalk & Brazos Park East
Both banks of the Brazos · Roughly 6.5–7 miles total
A paved, multi-use path connecting downtown to Cameron Park, with benches and river views the whole way. This is the one to bring a stroller on, or to do a lap after dinner downtown without needing real hiking shoes.
Learn more →Lake Waco Wetlands
1752 Eichelberger Crossing Rd · 180-plus acres of trails and boardwalk
Flat nature trails and boardwalk sections through a real wetland habitat, good for slow walks and better for birding. Bring binoculars, and check seasonal water levels before you go since they can change what's accessible.
Learn more →Lake Waco Dam Trail
Atop the Lake Waco Dam · About 2 miles, mostly level
Wide, flat, and open, with lake views the entire way. This is the easy jog or evening walk option when you want to move without thinking too hard about footing, and it's one of the better sunset spots in town.
Learn more →
With kids: River Trail in Cameron Park or the Riverwalk
Best views: Lover's Leap in Cameron Park
Training day: Highlander, Sidewinder, and Root Canal linkup
Best sunset walk: Lake Waco Dam Trail
A little further out: Mother Neff State Park, a short drive from town
Know a Waco-area trail I missed? Reply to this email and tell me. I update this guide as things change.