Cedar Ridge Preserve
Tucked away in a neighborhood of Cedar Hill, just 20 minutes south of Dallas, is a natural habitat that boasts 600 acres of native trees, grasses, and wildflowers. With an elevation of 755 feet, you can get a slice of Texas Hill Country without ever leaving the county.
Cedar Ridge is a park that was always close by for me growing up, and that I never really took advantage of. I would go here and there during my random fitness phases between partying, but never really appreciated it — until now that is. At this point my partying days are long over, and I get up early to go see the sunrise here as often as I can. What is it that they say about times changing? I’m now familiar with all 9 miles of trails, and let me tell you — not an inch of them disappoint.
The Cattail Pond Trail is the most popular, with overlooks of Joe Pool Lake along the way, and leading to a covered sitting area with views of the pond and rolling hills behind it — It’s a favorite spot for me to sit and watch the sunrise with a cup of coffee. I’m all about setting yourself up for a good day and this is one of the best ways I’ve found to do it. But I’m getting distracted, as I tend to do, so back to the trails! From the pond, you can either head back the way you came, take the Escarpment Trail to the right, or follow the Fossil Valley Trail to the left around the pond.
A favorite of mine is the Possumhaw Trail, which is an easy half mile trail close to the parking lot. This is a nature trail where different native trees and plants are marked for you to learn about with the trail guide provided on the website, here. I like to do this trail if I don’t have much time, or if I want to add some extra distance on a longer hike. Theres so many other trails looped in and connecting to each other that you can always pick another route and enjoy different views, as well as different levels of difficulty.
As I said, this is a slice of hill country. Point being… do some stretches and be prepared for a good leg workout! The trails are rugged with a lot of hills and natural stairs — I recommend having good ankle support. However, the park is a popular spot for trail running and they all seem to be just fine in their trainers. Just pay attention your body and do what feels comfortable for you. I for one am not a runner and have a weak ankle due to previous injury, so I usually stick to my hiking boots.
I will say, Cedar Ridge is a pretty popular spot, but for such good reason. If you pull in and see the parking lot looking full, please don’t get discouraged. People are in and out of here all day, and with so many different trails, I’ve never felt crowded after getting past the main entrance.
I can always find solitude here when I want it, and enjoy seeing others getting out there too. As someone who usually hikes solo, sometimes its nice to have small interactions with people throughout my hike. Everyone is always friendly and I find it to be a beautiful display of humanity and nature coming together as one. I’d be a hypocrite if I couldn’t whole heartedly say that it brings me joy to see so many people of different ages, backgrounds, and abilities taking advantage of all the beauty and healing that nature has to offer. I mean, that is why I started this venture in the first place. Just remember to listen for others on the trail for safe passing, pack out your trash, and be friendly to anyone you see. We are all out there to better ourselves, and to hopefully leave nature better than we found it too.
Have you been to Cedar Ridge Preserve?
If so, what are your favorite trails? I’d love to know in the comments!
How to get there:
Getting there is pretty easy, GPS will take you right to it. Like I said, it will look like you're going into a neighborhood, but there’s a sign with a small driveway near the rec center.
Trails:
Trails are very well marked at this park, so you can explore without the stress of getting lost.
Terrain is rugged with a lot of rock and wood that can be slick after a rain, so watch your footing.
This is a free park, but Audubon Dallas does accept donations to help with efforts to maintain trails. You can donate online here, or leave cash in the drop boxes at the entrance.
For being such a popular spot, the park is really pretty well maintained.
However, with so many people there’s always bound to be trash. As always, please consider cleaning up during your visit, and pack out whatever you bring!
If we work together, we can keep nature wild for future ourselves and generations to enjoy.
