Houston Outdoors Parks

Looking to get out and about in Houston for a daily workout or just to get away, here are some of the top spots:


Downtown
Directly west of the central business district is a pretty 5-mile loop — with opportunities for short cuts — that runs along both sides of Buffalo Bayou. A massive project now under construction is transforming the once-neglected green belt into an urban gem. The trail remains navigable, though the south portion is rough in spots. Look for the asphalt path close to the bayou, which is restricted to pedestrian use, unlike the 10-foot-wide concrete trail where bicycles, skateboards and strollers are welcome. It’s a little hilly, too. At the farthest point from downtown on the loop is the Shepherd Street bridge. An underpass leads to a sidewalk that will get you to Memorial Park, the heart of Houston’s running community, about 1.5 miles west of the bridge.



Galleria area
Memorial Park is about 2 miles from this commercial district; paths on either side of Loop 610 provide a safe way to get to the park proper. Runners and walkers can be found on the soft, shaded 2.9-mile loop at all hours (the trail is lighted at night); water is available every half-mile or so. A new deck — courtesy of the local running community — is a great place to stop for a sip and a stretch. The park suffered greatly during Houston’s record-breaking 2011 drought, but new trees are being planted. If trail running is your thing, ask a local about how to get to Ho Chi Minh Trail, also in Memorial Park.



Texas Medical Center
Hermann Park, just north of the hospital district, has a 2-mile trail with plenty of water fountains. Cross Main Street on the west side of the park to access a nearly 3-mile loop that encircles Rice University. Both trails have water and are deeply shaded.
 





West Houston
Terry Hershey Park Hike and Bike Trail is known for its shade, scenery and gentle hills. It runs 8 miles from West Beltway 8 to Texas 6, south of Interstate 10. Water is available, and the miles are marked.



Southwest Houston
A 9-mile asphalt path runs along Braeswood Avenue, following Braes Bayou, between Gessner and the Texas Medical Center. It’s not shaded, but water is available every few miles.


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