2025 52 Weeks of Hiking: Hike 5—Lake Grapevine Horseshoe Trail

Overview

Discover this 4.4-mile loop trail near Grapevine, Texas. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for mountain biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Explore a series of rolling trails that meander along Grapevine Lake, located in North Texas. The trail is shared by pedestrians and mountain bikers, and most of the trail is well-shaded by trees, making it a good option for the hotter days.

The trails are well-marked but can be a little confusing, as there are lots of intersections and shortcuts. Be sure to pay attention to the directions on the signs. Along the way, there are some nice undercover spots to stop for a break or a snack to break up your adventure.

There are a few rocky sections along the way, but most of the trail is sand/dirt, which makes it a good option for running.

4.4mi Length

154ft Elevation gain

Loop

Review

The Lake Grapevine Horseshoe Trail was a fantastic hike on a great outdoor day. The weather was perfect for a hike, with clear skies and mild temperatures. We opted to take the bike path, which extended the trail beyond its listed 4.4 miles to more than 5 miles, making for a longer and more rewarding outing. The bike path provided a smooth and wide route, though there were a few small water crossings along the way. I recommend wearing hiking boots or sturdy shoes for these conditions, as the water crossings can be slippery and muddy.

The trail itself was scenic, with views of Lake Grapevine and the surrounding natural beauty. There were a few spots where the path became more rugged, but nothing too challenging. As we neared the end, we left the bike path and walked down the road for the last half mile, which helped us cut off at least a mile from the total. This was a convenient shortcut, but it did feel a bit less scenic than the rest of the trail.

Overall, the Lake Grapevine Horseshoe Trail offers a great combination of varied terrain, beautiful lakeside views, and an opportunity to add distance if you want a longer hike. It’s perfect for hikers looking to enjoy nature and a bit of a challenge. Just bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for those water crossings!