River Legacy Trail

The trail is easily accessible with well-marked parking areas within River Legacy Park. A primary access point is near the River Legacy Park itself, which also offers amenities.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access River Legacy Park or its trails. It is a public park managed by the City of Arlington.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in bloom during spring. Summer can be hot, but many sections are well-shaded by a dense tree canopy, providing some relief. Winter is generally mild in Texas, making it suitable for hiking as well.

The trail offers a diverse experience. There's an 8.7-mile concrete paved route that is mostly flat and considered easy. For a more challenging hike, over ten miles of unpaved dirt singletrack wind through thick forests, along steep river banks, and across grassy fields. These unpaved sections feature numerous twists, turns, quick hills, and gentle rolls, with some steep hills up to 20 feet high. The unpaved trails are generally rated as "Intermediate" for hikers.

Yes, the unpaved dirt singletrack trails are multi-use and shared with mountain bikers. To ensure safety, hikers are advised to travel counter-clockwise on these trails, while mountain bikers ride in the opposite direction (clockwise).

The park is a rich wildlife haven, often referred to as a "bird watcher heaven." You might spot various bird species, as well as other animals like bobcats, herons, and kingfishers. The ecological diversity supports a wide array of wildlife, including 400 species of animals and 193 species of birds.

The trail offers abundant natural forestry and frequent views of the Trinity River. You'll encounter diverse ecosystems including bottomland forest, wetlands, and prairie. Adjacent to the park is the River Legacy Living Science Center, which provides interactive environmental exhibits and additional nature trails.

Absolutely! The paved 8.7-mile section is mostly flat and easy, making it ideal for families with strollers or younger children. For older children or those seeking more adventure, some of the less technical unpaved loops are also suitable, offering a chance to explore nature and spot wildlife.

Yes, the trail is part of the larger Trinity Trails system and has connections to Fort Worth trails, expanding your hiking possibilities. Along this specific route, you will also encounter sections of the River Legacy MTB Trail, Bypass, and Emergency Access 3.

Yes, River Legacy Park provides essential amenities for visitors. You'll find well-maintained restrooms and water fountains conveniently located within the park, particularly near parking areas and the River Legacy Living Science Center.