2025 52 Weeks of Hiking: Hike 7—Walnut Grove Trail from Blue Stem Trailhead

Overview

Enjoy this 3.9-mile out-and-back trail near Southlake, Texas. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 13 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many 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.

This route connects with the Walnut Grove Trail via the Blue Stem Trailhead. The trail surface is a mix of sand and dirt which can be challenging in some sections. There is a combination of both shade and sun along the way. This route is intended to be multi-use and can accommodate both equestrian users and hikers.

3.9mi Length

104ft Elevation gain

1h 13m Estimated time

Out & back

Review

The Walnut Grove Trail from the Blue Stem Trailhead is a charming hike, offering beautiful scenery and a mix of terrain. The White-tail hikers have indeed been fortunate to experience almost perfect weather on every outing, and this hike was no exception. The clear skies and mild temperatures made a delightful adventure through the Texas countryside.

One thing to keep in mind is that the trail features numerous side trails, so it's important to pay attention to your map and stay on track. We took a couple of unintentional sidequests along the way, exploring some of the smaller offshoots before realizing we had wandered off the main path. Let’s say we could probably benefit from a few Land Navigation courses! But, in the end, those little detours added to the day's fun, giving us more to explore.

The trail is well-maintained, with plenty of variety—wooded areas, open fields, and lovely views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a peaceful and enjoyable hike that offers a nice balance of challenges and rewards. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk or a bit of adventure, Walnut Grove has something to offer. Just ensure you’re ready to keep track of your path, or you might end up on a few extra sidequests yourself!