There are many fabulous urban hiking and biking trails in major U.S. cities and the Trinity Trails system is among the best I've encountered. An avid walker and hiker (averaging over 30 miles per week over paved and unpaved trails per week), I find the Trinity Trails to be a delightful use of my time when burning unwanted calories. I've walked the same section for over a year around a dozen times with numerous variations. My go-to route begins at the Hulen underpass and proceeds westward under the Bellaire underpass, continuing toward the NNW towards the Clear Fork Brach of the Trinity River where I cross the river then proceed west along the trail. I continue in a westerly direction underneath the Chisolm Trail Parkway. I continue westward along the north shore of the river underneath the Bryant Irvin underpass. I continue westward passing CERA, the shops and apartments at Waterside, and Residence Inn. When I get to Hwy 183, I use the cross-over over the river to the south side of the river and turnaround so that I'm walking in an eastwardly direction, following the same routing in reverse all the way back to Hulen
The pathway is mostly paved on the north side of the river, but much of the path on the south side of the river is unpaved, but very flat and even, covered with a base of screening. There are some cyclists--mostly courteous one who give you an "on your left" warning to avoid collisions. The path is flat, with no discernible gradient.
My route exceeds 5 miles, so to get in an extra mile or two (for a total of 5-7 miles) involves some backtracking, but my favorite on is to head eastward on the north side of the river from Press Cafe and proceed on a NW heading. Eventually you will note Colonial Country Club on the south side of the river. I continue until I reach the Woodshed Smokehouse, turn around and backtrack to Press Cafe, where I cross over the river and then retrace my steps back to the Hulen under pass where I start.
Another positive aspect of this walk are the numerous transitions from full exposure to shade throughout and generally interesting landscapes that include water, bridges, restaurants, office building, and a railroad terminal (not my favorite part).
I would recommend the Clear Fork of the Trinity River and Trinity River Trails to any visitor to Fort Worth. It is not. necessary to do 6 or 7 miles. From anywhere on the river, you may turn around and retrace your steps to customize the length. read more