River Legacy Parks — Attraction in Arlington

This is my favorite place to run. (I don't bike so I can't really review the bike trails.)

You can run the long trail... which covers about 5-7 miles depending on where you parked to start. There's a side entrance... I think it's off Collins Street. Not sure of its hours of operation. This can be nice if you want to avoid the main area. Or if you just want to park and get straight on the trail. It has stretches of shade but also stretches where you're right under the wide open sky.

You can also run the circle near the main entrance (via Green Oaks Blvd). Hours listed on the park website and on the gate. The main loop doesn't offer much in the way of shade. Probably the most shaded stretch for running is the area in between the main loop and the bridge.

The main loop is big. Not sure if it is a full mile or not. They have a map which lists the distances of both the running trails and bike trails. The sidewalks are also labeled every 1/4 mile inside the park and also along Green Oaks for quite a ways outside the park (mostly west, but a little ways east too)

There are three water fountains spread out near the main loop. It's rare that all three are working (and I don't know why) but usually at least one of them is working. There's also a restroom facility. And some playgrounds. Some pavilions. River Legacy would be a good place for a somewhat private picnic. Private only because of the vast space in between you and the next group of people.

I recently attended a company picnic at the far pavilion. It has decent parking. Shaded. And apparently you can reserve it for events. We had a great time.

The main loop area has great wide open fields. They are perfect for football, soccer, or frisbee. Alot of people bring their dogs.

I have seen a great deal of wildlife at River Legacy Park. Usually the more exotic wildlife is seen away from peak hours of traffic and in more remote areas of the trails.

I have seen a bobcat early in the morning during a run. I might have been one of the first runners that far down the long trail that morning.

And I saw a pair of foxes playfully chasing each other when I was the only one running on a rainy day.

I've also almost stepped on a snake when I was running at night (near but not actually inside the park). So watch out for snakes if you go near the woods or near the water. Or better yet, avoid going at night.

I guess you could say... I just...

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Arlington – River Legacy Park

River Legacy Park in Arlington, TX, is an absolute treasure, blending the beauty of nature with rich history and offering something for everyone. From the moment you step into this sprawling natural oasis, you're greeted by the peaceful sounds of rustling leaves, the fresh scent of the woods, and a landscape that feels like an escape from the city's hustle.

The walking and bike trails are a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, winding through scenic paths surrounded by towering trees and natural beauty. Whether you're a casual walker, a jogger, or an avid cyclist, these well-maintained trails offer the perfect setting to reconnect with nature. As shown in the photos, the peaceful, leaf-strewn paths create an enchanting vibe, especially during the fall when the ground is carpeted with crisp, colorful leaves.

For families, River Legacy Park is a paradise. The playground areas are perfect for kids to explore, play, and burn off energy in a safe environment. The picnic areas are thoughtfully designed with sturdy brick BBQ pits, ideal for a fun family cookout or a relaxing gathering with friends. The expansive, lush grassy fields offer stunning views and are perfect for games, lounging, or simply soaking in the sunshine.

One of the park’s most breathtaking features is its beautiful lakes, reflecting the sky and surrounded by serene greenery. It’s a picture-perfect spot for quiet reflection, photography, or just enjoying the calming presence of water.

Beyond its natural beauty, River Legacy Park holds a rich history, having been generously donated to the city of Arlington by a local family. This historical connection adds depth to your visit, reminding you that you're not just walking through nature, but through a piece of Arlington’s heritage.

Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, family fun, or a touch of history, River Legacy Park has it all. It’s a must-visit destination that showcases the perfect harmony of nature, recreation, and community spirit. I highly recommend it for families, outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking to experience the natural charm...

Me and my bf love going on walks here and there’s also hiking trails which look really pretty in the spring! We like to bring our dog to run around in the grass! Only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is because the last time we went on a walk there were 2 copper head snakes…it was around sunset and the path we went on was covered with trees which made it even darker. We had never seen snakes here before so didn’t think it was dangerous. I happened to be looking down at the ground and saw a “stick” move which turned out to be a snake. We immediately turned around and on the way back there was another snake. I took a video so I could look up what kind of snake it was later and that’s how I found out it’s a copper head. I know it’s a park so there’s nature, but I think for everyone’s safety, if they normally have snakes in the summer then they should close off the tree covered paths or add more lights in the dark areas. The main concrete path has lights, b it not the dirt/tree covered areas. If I wasn’t looking at the ground at the time I could’ve stepped on it and we could’ve been bitten. Just be...