If you find yourself in the Plano/Carrollton area and need a break from the concrete jungle, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is an absolute must. My husband and I came here for a weekend trek, and it's easily one of the best outdoor spots in North Texas. What I love most is the versatility. Whether you're looking for a smooth, paved stroll or want to get your boots a little dusty on the dirt hiking trails, they've got you covered. It's a great mix of elevation and flat stretches. It's a great spot for everyone. Pets are welcome (on leashes!), and there is a fantastic playground near the parking lot--perfect for kiddos who still have energy to burn after a hike. You'll see a beautiful variety of plants and likely some local wildlife. Just a heads-up: they do have warning signs posted for snakes and poison ivy, so definitely keep an eye on your surroundings while you explore. The parking lot is huge, but this place is popular! We arrived around 1:00 PM and it was nearly at capacity. We were lucky to snag a stall, but I'd definitely recommend arriving earlier in the morning if you want to avoid the parking hunt. read more

This nature preserve was beautiful. It has a few different trails but my goal was to get to the observation tower. Which was about 30 mins into the trail (I'm a slow walker tho) They do have some areas you can cut through to get to other trails but I don't recommend trying this after it rains because it's very muddy. The scenery from the tower was beautiful. I do wish they had more benches to rest though because there were only two on the trail we took. At the entrances there is a park for kids to play and a barbq area that looks over the trail. There's also plenty of parking! And the restrooms seem decent read more

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Most of the trails were closed down for construction, but I took my daughter for the first time and she got some really good footage. I went for peace in that incline almost took me out lol reminding me that I need to get back in the gym more often I feel like the park can use some maintenance, but I was able to get my workout in and the peace and fresh air that I need. read more

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Arbor Hills is a place near and dear to my heart. This is one of the best places to get away from the crowded areas and just enjoy nature. The entrance area is always crowded so people don't get to see how amazing this place is. It's incredible because once you go off trail, you can see for miles to around and the sunset views are phenomenal. There are plenty of shortcuts around this area if you just want to do a quick loop to the observation tower and back to the main entrance. I took my old dog out here years ago and went off trail to isolated areas. I hope other dog owners get to see how happy she is and how much joy dogs get from being in this place. It's fairly common to see people taking family photos here but again, I truly recommend walking in off trail areas for 10 minutes to get spectacular photos. read more

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Arbor Hills is a lovely park/hiking trail nestled in West Plano. The main trail takes about 30 minutes to walk, going at a slow to moderate pace. There are also many additional trails that veer off the main path which is great if you want to go on an adventure! There's not much lighting once you go into the forest so be mindful of daylight and time. There are also restrooms, and a playground there which is great. I highly recommend. read more

For hiking in Plano, Arbor Hills cannot be beat! There's something for every fitness level from paved trails to more advanced trails with elevation gains- I'd say the most advanced are still pretty tame. The grounds are well kept and erosion is being managed in various parts of the park. There are 2 separate parking lots as well as restroom facilities on opposite sides of the park. Over the years I have noticed the preserve a very popular place for taking professional pictures. Think engagement, graduation or family portraits; which most of the time is fine and not disruptive. But at times I've seen some obnoxious photo set ups- like someone literally transporting a large brass bed and furniture to do a photo shoot in the meadow. Those instances can be disruptive to the environment of the preserve. If you have to drastically alter the outdoors to take a pic, you should rethink whether it makes sense to take pictures here. The preserve can get very busy during the weekends, but during off peak hours, it's sublime. Love Arbor Hills and think it's a gem all four seasons of the year! read more

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Very nice and clean park despite a lot of dogs. We walked the mile loop. Was very popular with lots of families. Public bathrooms were newer snd clean. Plenty of parking. read more

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We took a hike here just after the eclipse happened. This place had apparently been a popular venue to watch the eclipse, but the crowds had partly left just before we arrived. There was plenty of parking at that point, and I'd assume that parking isn't an issue generally. We consulted a nearby map/sign and saw a good loop route. The trail was also paved, though there are a number of side trails where are not. The main trail is about 40 - 50 % shaded, which is probably even more important in the summer. The only issue we had was that, on the far side of the loop, the paved trail diverged. We followed the wrong (right-leading) path for a couple of hundred yards before noticing on a map app that we had strayed. My only advice to the park would be to increase the signage to keep people on the main trail. As we returned, we saw more of the core facilities which are near one side of the parking lot - large restrooms, a playground, and some picnic pavilions. If you are in this area and just want to escape suburbia for an hour, this is a great option. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Bluebonnets near the parking lot. - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

While the surrounding area is quite built up, this is a decent size preserve that really gives you the sense of being amongst the greenery. Ample free parking and facilities await at the entrance, but after descending into the nearby valley on a mix of paved and natural trails, one finds an abundant variety of plant life, interesting views, and plenty of space for a light workout. Organized photography events were also a popular activity. It's a fantastic space to have open and free, and easily worth the trip. read more

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Exceptionally well thought out trails and facilities! Great views, fun terrain and friendly people on the trails! Easy of the local seasons provide plenty of variations in color and shapes. This is never a boring place to visit. The kids will love it! read more

Great outdoor experience for getting some steps in and enjoying outside! Perfect spot if you have pets as there's plenty of trail space. read more

Hands down the absolute best nature park in the area!! Highly recommend! I just wish they'd expand their parking though

This is a really beautiful park! When you walk through you sometimes forget you're in TX especially the DFW metroplex area. I am waiting for cooler days to come visit again. They have lots of trails and have a beautiful stream running through the park. Also they have restrooms throughout which is much appreciated. Can't wait to come back soon read more

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Some of the best trails in the DFW area. Well-maintained paths with varied terrain offer beautiful natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for hikers of all skill levels looking for outdoor recreation close to the city. read more

Got to take beautiful maternity photos here 10 out of 10. Definitely recommend for a whimsy feel

Coming here to be healthy and re-establish a connection with nature is something I truly love. The prairie route is currently overflowing with wildflowers, and each time I've visited, I've seen wildlife. The availability of this small natural retreat in Plano feels like a gift. Just so you know, some of the paths can become muddy and a little slippery after rain. read more

Howdy Texas! From California visiting and wanted to go to a dog friendly place to walk my brother's husky. My brother suggested we venture on over to Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. With the weather on and off rain, I wanted to walk along the concrete walkway here. My brother mentioned dirt paths here too, as he ventures there on sunnier days. This is a beautiful park with babbling brooks, bridges, various blooming flowers and tree shaded areas (see my pics). Free parking, free WiFi (see my pic), and covered picnic areas in which one can reserve for a fee, makes this park even more great. Playground area for children with nearby decent public restrooms too. Had a beautiful 2.5 mile walk here with my family ..and I'm sure you'll have a beautiful time too. Stay safe and healthy (mind, body and soul) Yelping out there :) read more

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There are paved trails, natural trails and some biking trails that are maintained by DORBA. Bikes are not allowed on the natural hiking trails, so they have to stick to the "designated off-road bicycle trail." Dogs are allowed on the paved trails and the natural trails, but NOT allowed on the DORBA biking trails. If you are hiking as a pedestrian on the biking trails, you should walk against the bicycle traffic so you don't get run over. Some parts of the hiking trails cross the creek, but as of January 2021, only one of the four bridges were open. Lots of construction going on here - mainly for erosion control, so have some patience with them folks. Hiking trails are considered "easy" with very minimal elevation changes. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

It's hard to be an outside kid and live in the Dallas Metroplex, Arbor Hills makes it easier. Arbor hills is conveniently located, FREE, safe, & quite beautiful. Many trails, many ecosystems, and sometimes, many people. Plan accordingly. As an avid bird watcher I find the best times for me tend to be early in the day. As a dog owner, because you can bring your dogs, I find evenings to be more enjoyable. Keep your eyes open.. you may run across some wildlife while out exploring! read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Just off the trail, a beautiful snowy egret with his catch of the day! - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

This place is amazing. Their trails are super clean and you can feel so much nature around you it almost feels like you are out in the middle of nowhere! Our family came here for a photoshoot and now we can't wait to go back. There is plenty of parking and everything is very well-kept. We will be visiting again very very soon!! read more

Nature Walk in the middle of the city. I go here just to get away, enjoy the breeze and the sunlight. The trail is normally about a mile to 2 miles walk, which I normally will walk around twice. They have a park also if you want to take your young kids to play on, not to mention they have areas where you can walk off trail and enjoy the small creek area which is pleasant. They allow bike riding on the trails or if you want to go off trail, it looks fun but because I mostly walk it can get kinda hectic when its busy. Right now they are doing construction, so part of the trail is cut off, not sure what they are doing but I'm sure it will be amazing. If I wasn't a frequent visitor and hadn't seen the place before construction I would've gave them 3 stars lol so hopefully its done by the summer cause its been a couple of months to a year so far. Definitely GO tho :) read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

I love coming here with my family. It's always clean and well kept. I've taken many clients here for photos as well. Only con would be the parking. There never seems to be enough. read more

Saying that this park gets packed in the spring and fall is an understatement. This is a beautiful kept preserve that you can hike or walk on the pavement. If you have kids, or babies in strollers this is a perfect place to be. Itll take you about an hour to walk around the park on the pavement but the trails will take you 1 1/2 hours. Beware of the preserve if it previously rained! The park is filled with clay; not mud so it can be hard to walk around with all the clay when its wet. Parking is plentiful. I wouldn't recommend coming early in the morning because its packed! Too many people will be there but of course with Texas heat when else can you go? Overall you'll enjoy it here if you've never been. It's such a beautiful place for pictures as well. read more

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A lot of people are at this park during covid, just a heads up. The less parking space pre caution has not stopped the flow of traffic for both cars and walking feet. Otherwise, if you love the outdoors, creeks, little streams and lots of hiking trails, then stop by. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

I'm wavering between 4 and 5 stars. Let's wait for a second visit and see how I feel after next time. Great for exploring. I especially liked the more rugged paths to the north and west. Was surprised by the change in elevation. One minute I'm in the "woods", next minute on a grassy plain. Long paved paths good for wheels and jogging. I especially like the bridges. If you do get off the path, watch for poisonous plants. There are several varieties lurking. If it's hot, do bring water. Bottom line: Very cool urban find! read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

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I've ran or went on hikes with people here so many times and it never gets boring! There's always something new to explore. I recommend using AllTrails to figure out what trails you can follow so you don't get lost. read more

Love walking around here. It's incredibly busy on weekends so I wouldn't recommend going on a weekend if you don't want to be around a lot of people. LOTS of hiking/biking trails all over the place so there are a ton of options. Last week I saw a cottonmouth snake sunning itself on a rock right beside the sidewalk. It was minding its own business (and yes, it's a nature preserve so it's to be expected!) but definitely keep an eye where you're walking & watch your kids if they go off the sidewalk. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Just vibing on the rocks - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

I love this trail, it's a good way to get in some hills in the shade and there are lots of options for either paved or trail paths. I also feel like this trail has been pretty clean every time I've come. In the past I have come here for my kids events - such as a wrestling run but I also find this location to be very kid friendly for younger kids. Lots of little ones on bikes and scooters and a lot for them to stop and check out so they don't get too bored. read more

3 miles of paved hiking trail, 3 miles of unpaved hiking trail, a 2.8 mile off-road bike trail, restrooms, a covered pavilion, and a playground. The pavilion can be reserved for special events. An observation tower provides a bird's eye view of the park. Free Parking Kids Play Area Good For Photoshoot read more

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Great, beautiful and clean nature park !!! Love it! It was a wonderful long walk with lots of paved sidewalks so ppl can have baby strollers. I like that my dog won't get stickers in his paws and I don't have to worry about fleas and ticks. read more

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Went for a nature walk My advice come in the morning or earlier atleast to avoid the texas summer heat It was almost 98 degree past 3pm But I came prepared with sunblock, backpack with water, a hat and my mask and shield just in case in there was crowds There was signature everywhere for social distancing which I liked. There are multiple markers indicating the off trails for bikes or hiking I stuck to the solid concrete pathway since I have surgical plates in my foot so I need to be more precautious All in all great experience, people bring dogs and they are on leaches, there is poopy bags all around. You also see a lot of runners, joggers, walkers of all skilled levels, cyclists, and families with strollers. Family friendly. Great location for nature walk/hike locally. Open space. Good for working out and enjoying nature There is half way point with several points to see mini cascades and water running read more

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Great place to hike, walk, run or let the kids loose on the playground. It does get packed on the nice weather days so expect to look for parking. Hoping the construction is finished quicker so we can get all the trails open again. read more

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Me and my friends have been hiking more and a friend suggested this place. I first checked it out with my daughters and we love the creeks and I would say kid friendly trails. They offer plenty creek spots where we can all enjoy and keep our social distancing. This place is also well maintained where you don't see a lot of trash and debris. Only thing I would say is a little more map in between trails to help identify your location, but besides that I really dig this spot. From the nice entrance with available restroom option and decent amount of parking. We would definitely go back and if you have kids or looking for kid friendly creeks/ trails I recommend it. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - At the top of the tower!! - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

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LOVE LOVE LOVE coming here. I wish there were more spaces created like this. We bring our pup here and love hiking on the trails. Parking can get a little crazy during peak hours/season. Make sure you pick up your pet's mess!! read more

GREAT PARK! First of all if you venture in the wilderness area with barely market paths then you need to know your way around the park because you get easily lost. This could be a bad thing if you are a panicky type person and you didn't bring any water with you. Also, it could be a good thing because it could add extra distance to your walk or jog without know it unless you have an app to measure the distance or you are a natural and can estimate distance without any apps. If you walk on the paved area then it is easy to walk on and access, you can bring kids in strollers, dogs and your elderly friends and/or family members. The area offers shade even in the hot summers because there are a lot of trees, also the terrain is pretty flat, you are in Texas after all. If you are visit this area and want to get some outdoor exercise this is the place to go. read more

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - An interesting nature park were you can get lost if you don't follow the trails - Parks Near Me - Plano, Texas

What a beautiful preserve in the middle of a city. What caught our eye was when you search "Plano, TX" on Google Maps, the first image was a faux-waterfall going into a creek. We were so curious what this was so we had to go take a look. When you get here it is just this expansive wooded area, but that only scratches the surface. Now mind you that it had just rained pretty hard, the day before we choose to go, but we wanted an adventure so kiddy shoes were going to happen. When we got out of the car and walked to the sidewalk, there was a trail sign, knowing that there was some kind of creek hidden back there, we headed that way. As you walk the trails, there are a bunch of trail posts, so getting lost shouldn't be too easy. Less than five minutes in, you can hear a creek and then this pretty creek appears with some really clear water and no fish. We saw a flat black rock and when we picked it up, it crumbled in our hands, it was clay. In fact all the "black" rocks were clay. We followed the trail that was creekside and finally reached the "end" since there was some construction going on. Heading back we now had shoes weighing about 5 more pound, cause they were full of mud. Rather than track mud all over the car we headed towards the contrete trail. It takes you up to a very nice play ground and actually usable restrooms, during Covid-19 cazy. Aparrebty it is very well taken care and has a heater too. There is also free wifi because of Toyota, which is nice. Overall their place was awesome. Living 40 plus minutes away didn't deter is not should it you. read more

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So much space and felt like we had the outer loop to ourselves. Lots of great trail options for all levels

Not a lot of options for hiking in Dallas, so this is one of your best bets, however it's far too crowded, for the above reason. I would recommend when it's cold,(which only gives you about a month .. maybe) - as Texans are babies when it gets below 70. Saturday and Sunday are the worst, of course, try early or after 6pm. Bring plenty of water as fountains are only placed near the parking lot. Other than that it's a really nice place in a very car culture city and suburb (Plano) read more

This area is really nice. It's a well maintained area to hike with some areas being trails and others as clean sidewalks. It doesn't quite feel like you've made it out of the city and into the thick of nature, but it's still a really beautiful preserve and I'm thrilled it's here. Dallas needs more areas like this. Dogs allowed on leashes. There is a higher ground area here too which has beautiful views. Get some exercise and come n visit! read more

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I love the paved trails on at Arbor Hills that I can walk with my stroller when I'm with the kids, and I'm excited to come out here without my little ones so I can explore the other "off road" trails & the creek that runs through read more