No, East Texas doesn’t experience absurdly-low temperatures in October and November, but our scenic landscape still (gradually) transforms into a colorful utopia every autumn. The dense forestry that encircles Mill Creek Ranch Resort typically welcomes a variety of colors, including amber, crimson, and marigold. During autumn’s peak, guests often spend their days walking along our secluded wilderness trails, fishing for catfish in our ponds, and roasting marshmallows around crackling campfires. But we also highly recommend that you embark on a mid-day escape to a couple of scenic East Texas hiking trails in the forests near Tyler, Mineola, and Eustace. Hiking in East Texas is ideal for adventurers who’re looking for tranquility, exercise, and, of course, a healthy dose of fall foliage!
The Top 3 East Texas Hiking Trails
We always encourage guests to “spread their wings” during the highly-anticipated fall season by hopping into the RV en route to a handful of the most-popular East Texas hiking trails. For those who’ve never visited our particularly serene countryside haven before, hiking in East Texas is, typically, not overly strenuous. These rolling hills are perfect for all ages.
Tyler State Park
Location: 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX
Best Trail: Lake Loop Trail (2 miles, moderate)
Description: The two-mile hike around Tyler State Park Lake has it all: deep-woods serenity, sprawling lake vistas, boardwalks, cascading waterfalls, and frequent wildlife sightings. The fall foliage allots ample photo opportunities, especially near the water’s edge. Several varieties of colorful trees mix well with the emerald pines, which provide a heartwarming resinous aroma.
Mineola Nature Preserve on the Sabine River
Location: 1860 County Road 2724, Mineola, TX
Best Trail: Palmer Trail (easy)
Description: Mineola Nature Preserve remains of one Texas’ hidden gems. In fact, this preserve has the largest collection of multi-purpose hiking trails in East Texas. If you’re planning to search for “nature walks near me” this autumn, we recommend starting in Mineola. Sadly, there is very little information online about Mineola’s many nature trails, but trusts us—hiking in East Texas doesn’t much better than a stroll along the Sabine River. You’ll also likely cross paths with several animals at this well-maintained preserve, including longhorns, snakes, herons, hogs, and even alligators.
Purtis Creek State Park
Location: 14225 FM316, Eustace, TX
Best Trail: Wolfpen Hike Trail (2.1 miles, easy)
Description: Eustace’s Purtis Creek is one of the least talked about places to hike in Texas. While Purtis Creek is often overshadowed by Tyler State Park and Mineola Nature Preserve, we couldn’t think of a more peaceful destination for an autumn picnic. Wolfpen is one of our favorite East Texas hiking trails because of the lake views, towering trees, and friendly wildlife. Foxes, squirrels, woodpeckers, deer, and raccoons frequently scamper through the dense forestry in search of a treat.
Hiking in East Texas | Mill Creek Ranch
Don’t forget that Mill Creek Ranch Resort is home to one of the few walking trails in Canton, TX. These peaceful, quintessential East Texas trails meander along the outer edges of our 200-acre property. Feel free to ask a member of our friendly, knowledgeable staff upon arrival about their favorite backpacking trails in Texas. To learn more about our award-winning RV resort, please give us a call today at 866-488-6020 (or check availability online).
