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Tarrant County

North Richland Hills

The best cycling routes around North Richland Hills

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 10, 2026

If you’ve ever tried to plan touring cycling around North Richland Hills, you know how quickly the options can pile up. With so many trails and parks, it’s tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That’s where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped the very best of NRH, so you don't have to sift through endless possibilities. Consider this your curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork and pointing you straight to the good stuff.

Touring cycling in North Richland Hills is all about accessible green spaces and an extensive network of interconnected paved trails. The terrain is generally gentle, with hills typically under 650 feet (200 m), making it welcoming for a wide range of cyclists. You’ll find yourself pedaling through woodsy areas, past ranches, and alongside picturesque natural settings, from wetlands to post-oak savannah. It’s a city committed to outdoor activity, and its well-maintained trail system means you can enjoy these routes comfortably for much of the year.

For a fantastic introduction to the area, we’d start with the Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop. At 25.1 miles (40.3 km), it’s a moderate ride that connects multiple trail segments, offering a great variety of scenery. If you’re looking for a slightly shorter, easier option that still delivers on charm, the John Barfield Trail – Alpacas at CBT Trail loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield is a local favorite, covering 17.1 miles (27.5 km) through green spaces. With over 450 touring cyclists having explored these routes and an average rating of 4.8 stars, you know you’re in for a treat. Get out there and start exploring with komoot!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop
  2. 2

    Alpacas at CBT Trail – McPherson Park loop from North Richland Hills/Iron Horse
  3. 3

    John Barfield Trail – Alpacas at CBT Trail loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop

40.3 km

160 m

Moderate

Alpacas at CBT Trail – McPherson Park loop from North Richland Hills/Iron Horse

45.6 km

190 m

Moderate

John Barfield Trail – Alpacas at CBT Trail loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield

27.5 km

110 m

Easy

Alpacas at CBT Trail – John Barfield Trail loop from Birdville High School

47.8 km

190 m

Moderate

Harmon Field Park – Henderson Street Bridge loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield

80.3 km

310 m

Hard

Harmon Field Park – Trinity Trails loop from North Richland Hills/Iron Horse

121 km

450 m

Hard

Alpacas at CBT Trail – John Barfield Trail loop from North Richland Hills/Iron Horse

55.6 km

320 m

Moderate

Alpacas at CBT Trail – Timmaron Lake loop from Bransford

25.7 km

100 m

Easy

John Barfield Trail loop from Adventure World All Abilities Playground

16.1 km

60 m

Easy

The Parks at Towncenter loop from Green Valley Raceway Historic Plaza

12.2 km

60 m

Easy

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1.

Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop

40.3km

02:24

160m

160m

The Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop offers a fantastic touring cycling route, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Fort Worth and beyond. You'll glide along the paved Trinity Trails, enjoying picturesque views of the Trinity River and lush parkland, before transitioning to the Cotton Belt Trail, which weaves through urban and suburban areas, occasionally revealing glimpses of wildlife and historic Grapevine.

This moderate 25.1 miles (40.3 km) loop, with 516 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 23 minutes. While mostly flat, the length and numerous road crossings, some on busy streets, contribute to its moderate difficulty, so stay alert. Parking is available at various access points along the route, and the trails are open from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset.

Part of the broader Veloweb network, this route is a significant corridor connecting multiple cities and offering a blend of natural beauty and community life. The Cotton Belt Trail follows the historic St. Louis Southwestern Railway, adding a layer of historical interest to your ride, while the Trinity Trails cycling routes in Fort Worth are known for their art installations and connectivity to local parks.

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4.

Alpacas at CBT Trail – John Barfield Trail loop from Birdville High School

47.8km

02:46

190m

190m

The Alpacas at CBT Trail – John Barfield Trail loop from Birdville High School offers a distinctive touring cycling experience, blending urban and natural landscapes. You'll navigate mostly paved surfaces, enjoying scenic views of flowing creeks and native ecosystems along the John Barfield Trail, before transitioning to the varied scenery of the Cotton Belt Trail, which includes suburban areas, industrial buildings, and wooded sections. Keep an eye out for the alpacas that give this route its memorable name, often seen staring as you approach.

This moderate 29.7 miles (47.8 km) route, with 625 feet (190 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. While predominantly flat, some sections feature moderate inclines, so a good level of fitness is beneficial. The interconnected trail system provides a welcoming environment for cyclists, making it a great option for a solid ride in the North Richland Hills Fort Worth area.

Beyond the unique alpaca sightings, this loop is notable for its extensive network of paved trails and parklands, serving as an alternative transportation route connecting various cities. It offers a blend of natural beauty, including wetlands and mid-grass prairie, with developed areas. The John Barfield Trail also connects to other local systems, enhancing regional connectivity for those looking to explore further.

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5.

Harmon Field Park – Henderson Street Bridge loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield

80.3km

05:10

310m

310m

Embark on a substantial touring bicycle journey with the Harmon Field Park – Henderson Street Bridge loop, a route that weaves through Fort Worth's diverse natural settings. You'll navigate prairies, forests, and wetlands, with scenic stretches along the Trinity River and Lake Worth, offering glimpses of the historic Henderson Street Bridge and the peaceful Harmon Field Park. This 49.9-mile (80.3 km) loop, featuring 1015 feet (309 metres) of elevation gain, is a difficult ride that will keep you engaged for an estimated 5 hours and 9 minutes.

To tackle this challenging route, ensure you have very good fitness and are prepared for a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. While specific trailhead parking for the North Richland Hills/Smithfield start isn't detailed, planning your start time to allow for the full 5-hour duration is crucial. Always carry enough water and supplies for this long distance cycling route, especially during warmer weather, to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

This loop is a notable option for those seeking long distance cycling routes connecting North Richland Hills and Fort Worth, offering a true test of endurance and skill. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the varied landscapes of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Wildlife Refuge and enjoy the impressive views from landmarks like the Henderson Street Bridge. The route's blend of natural beauty and physical demand makes it a standout choice for experienced touring cyclists in the region.

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8.

Alpacas at CBT Trail – Timmaron Lake loop from Bransford

25.7km

01:29

100m

100m

The Alpacas at CBT Trail – Timmaron Lake loop from Bransford offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, primarily on well-paved surfaces. You'll enjoy the unique opportunity to cycle past alpacas, a sight that's sure to bring a smile to your face. The route also takes you to the quiet and tranquil Timmaron Lake, where you can pause, enjoy a water fountain, and potentially spot local wildlife, making for a serene journey.

This easy 15.9-mile (25.7 km) loop, with a modest 344 feet (105 metres) of elevation gain, is suitable for touring cyclists of all fitness levels and can typically be completed in about 1 hour and 29 minutes. There are no specific access restrictions or permits required, making it a straightforward option for a spontaneous outing. It's a great choice for a relaxing ride without significant physical demands.

The primary draw of this Bransford cycling route is the memorable interaction with alpacas, setting it apart from more generic trails. The combination of animal encounters and the peaceful lake environment, complete with opportunities for wildlife spotting, makes this a notable and family-friendly cycling route near Bransford. It's a perfect option if you're seeking a unique and calming ride.

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9.

John Barfield Trail loop from Adventure World All Abilities Playground

16.1km

00:56

60m

60m

The John Barfield Trail loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through the wooded Little Bear Creek corridor. You'll enjoy scenic views of flowing creeks, native ecosystems, and even pass through ranches, providing a natural feel despite being close to residential areas. This paved route is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and escape the city, especially if you're looking for accessible touring cycling near Adventure World All Abilities Playground.

Planning your visit to the John Barfield Trail loop is simple, with multiple parking options available. You can start your ride from the Adventure World All Abilities Playground, or find parking, restrooms, and drinking fountains at Northfield Park near the trail's east end. Other parking spots include the Fire Station on Shady Oaks Drive and Davis Boulevard, and Green Valley Raceway Historic Plaza, ensuring convenient access for your cycling adventure.

This easy 10.0-mile (16.1 km) loop, with a minimal 191 feet (58 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 55 minutes, making it ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. The John Barfield Trail is a key component of a larger trail system, connecting to the Cotton Belt Trail and the City of Keller Trail System, offering further exploration if you wish to extend your journey beyond this pleasant loop.

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Tips from the Community

Mikey
May 9, 2025, Alpacas at CBT Trail

Can't go wrong with the CBT. The preferred way to go to Grapevine

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Lots of walkers here. Nice chill trail.

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Sue
June 23, 2024, McPherson Park

This well-maintained, beautiful park occupies land that formerly housed one of the major dairy farms in Colleyville. There is a renovated dairy barn with replicas of an actual milking operation, and the former Dunn/Tirk log barn, built in the late 1800s; one of the few existing log structures remaining in Tarrant County. The park includes various amenities, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, sports fields, beautiful landscaping, a fountain, statues, and a splash pad.

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In 1925, the William E. Harmon Foundation generously donated $2,000 to the city for the acquisition of land to create a park for the African American community. Today, this park spans 97.5 acres and features amenities such as basketball courts, benches, and a lovely water feature for everyone to enjoy.

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Alex
February 8, 2024, John Barfield Trail

The John Barfield Trail provides an escape from the city, offering views of Little Bear Creek, native ecosystems, and wildlife. It connects neighborhoods and parks, linking to the City of Keller Trail System in the west and the Cotton Belt Trail in the east. Constructed in 2014, the trail is named after John Barfield, a homebuilder/developer.

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Spanning 57 acres, this park features baseball fields, a playground, and a pavilion equipped with picnic tables. A pleasant paved trail meanders alongside Walter's Creek, offering a peaceful ride along the water.

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Alex
January 22, 2024, John Barfield Trail

The John Barfield Trail provides an escape from the city, offering views of Little Bear Creek, native ecosystems, and wildlife. It connects neighborhoods and parks, linking to the City of Keller Trail System in the west and the Cotton Belt Trail in the east. Constructed in 2014, the trail is named after John Barfield, a homebuilder/developer.

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Tyler Sanders
December 8, 2023, Nutt Lake Park

This park is relatively simple, without many amenities. It primarily serves as a pleasant open space situated alongside the West Fork Trinity River, providing breathtaking views of the river. If you're looking for something extra special, there are elevated viewpoints on the bridge that offer exceptional vistas.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in North Richland Hills?

North Richland Hills offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 45 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

What are the best seasons for touring cycling in North Richland Hills?

The extensive paved trail system in North Richland Hills makes it suitable for cycling throughout much of the year. While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the region's climate generally allows for comfortable riding in spring and fall. Summers can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable, and winters are typically mild enough for cycling.

Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, North Richland Hills is very accommodating for beginners and families. A significant portion of the routes, 32 out of 45, are rated as 'easy'. The city's commitment to green spaces and well-maintained paths, like those found in Linda Spurlock Park or Richfield Park, provides a safe and enjoyable experience. An excellent option for an easy ride is the Alpacas at CBT Trail loop from Adventure World All Abilities Playground, which is 16.1 miles long.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in North Richland Hills?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in North Richland Hills are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular Trinity and Cotton Belt Trails Loop is a 25.1-mile circular route that connects multiple scenic trail segments.

What kind of natural features or attractions can I expect to see along the cycling routes?

North Richland Hills' routes often wind through lush greenery, parks, and natural areas. You might encounter serene ponds, like the Pond with Fountain at Sinclair Park, or enjoy the tranquility of Nutt Lake Park. The city's parks, such as Dick Faram Park and Green Valley Park, offer picturesque settings. You can also spot unique local attractions like the Alpacas at CBT Trail.

Are the touring cycling trails in North Richland Hills dog-friendly?

While many parks and trails in North Richland Hills are generally welcoming to dogs, specific rules regarding leashes and waste disposal apply. It's always best to check local signage or the North Richland Hills Parks & Recreation guidelines for the most current information on dog-friendly policies for specific trails you plan to visit.

Where can I find parking near the touring cycling trails?

North Richland Hills has numerous parks and trailheads that offer convenient parking. Many of the city's 30+ parks, including those that serve as access points to the interconnected trail system, provide parking facilities. For specific routes, checking the starting point details on komoot or the city's parks department website can help locate the nearest parking.

Are there any challenging or advanced touring cycling routes in the area?

For cyclists seeking a more challenging experience, North Richland Hills does offer a few routes rated as 'difficult'. An example is the Harmon Field Park – Henderson Street Bridge loop from North Richland Hills/Smithfield, which covers over 50 miles and includes more significant elevation changes. These routes provide a good test for more experienced touring cyclists.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in North Richland Hills?

The touring cycling routes in North Richland Hills are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive paved trail system, the interconnectedness of routes allowing for varied rides, and the pleasant scenery through parks and green spaces.

Are there any unique landmarks or points of interest to explore while cycling?

Beyond the natural beauty, cyclists can discover several interesting points. The Henderson Street Bridge is a notable landmark. The master-planned community of Hometown also features over 25 acres of parks, lakes, and waterfalls, providing scenic spots to explore. For a truly unique experience, the Alpacas at CBT Trail offers an unexpected and charming sight.

Can I access the touring cycling trails using public transport?

North Richland Hills has an evolving public transport system. While specific direct access points to all trails via public transport might vary, the interconnected nature of the trails, such as the Cotton Belt Trail linking to other major paths, may offer possibilities depending on your starting location. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and routes for the most convenient access points.

Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments along the touring cycling routes?

Many of the touring cycling routes in North Richland Hills pass through or near developed areas and parks, increasing the likelihood of finding cafes or refreshment stops. While specific establishments aren't listed for every trail, the city's growth and focus on community amenities suggest that options are available, especially near popular trailheads or within the Hometown community.

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