Hike - Cedar Ridge Trail Parking — Attraction in Dallas

I gave this a five-star because it is a beautiful place to hike but, please read my whole review and what happened to me......I've been coming here since 2019 it's a beautiful place to hike and enjoy the outdoors many different trails from you to choose from. Unfortunately on Friday March 28th 2025 I arrived at 6:45 PM was approximately an hour and 15 minutes before sunset so I figured I could knock out my exercise for the day something told me not to come but I still force myself to come I guess I should have listened to my intuition because when I arrive back at my vehicle at 7:40 p.m. and got inside are reaching to my backseat to grab my purse that I had place on the ground and covered with a blanket and I noticed my back passenger seat window was broken out...... I called 911 and they said an officer would not be coming out ( course not ,this is Dallas county) they told me I could come into the station personally or follow report over the phone. So I couldn't follow the report there and then someone returned my call the next morning at 5:40 a.m. I stayed there until the park attendant came to lock the gates at 9:00 p.m. that night and I let them know what happened and I asked if there was any cameras around and they said there was not. I have not been back there since.... This has been a very bad experience for me and also very costly to replace my glass not to mention all the personal items that were in my purse that were stolen with my personal information in it....... Please be very careful if you come here I suspect they park next to me because there was not another car park beside me which gave them the benefit of backing up beside my vehicle probably opening their door to kind of cover what they were doing and break my window quickly and get back in their car and take off.

I felt a sense of security because The thing is there's always people walking in and out of the park and driving in and out so you would not think something like this would happen to you but, it could happen quickly and it split second so don't leave anything in your vehicle that they could be enticed to break the window to get. I also suspect they tried to break into my car a few days before because when I was walking I heard a BMW alarm go off but I didn't think nothing of it then the next day when we had a lot of dust in the area I noticed some fingerprints around my windows but again I dismissed it..... I also feel like they did this close to dusk because there's less people in the park. Also please have some things to protect yourself with in case you walk here alone. I did some more research and found a news article for a young lady came here to go hiking I believe it was in 2019 and she was abducted and murdered.

So pretty much don't come here alone don't come here without having something to protect yourself with and don't bring anything in your car that you don't want to...

Review: Cedar Ridge Trail – A Nature Lover's Dream

Rating: ★★★★★

If you're seeking a rejuvenating escape into nature, Cedar Ridge Trail is an absolute gem! Nestled in a picturesque location, this trail offers a stunning combination of breathtaking views and serene natural beauty that makes it a perfect spot for hikers of all levels.

Trail Overview: The Cedar Ridge Trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to navigate. The path winds through lush forests, featuring towering trees and vibrant undergrowth that create a peaceful, almost enchanting atmosphere. As you hike, the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves serve as a soothing soundtrack, enhancing the overall experience.

Nature Bathing Experience: One of the highlights of this trail is the opportunity for "nature bathing." The air is crisp and refreshing, and the scenic views from various lookout points are simply spectacular. The trail gently leads you to a beautiful vista where you can take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and soak in the beauty around you. The vibrant colors of the flora and the interplay of light filtering through the trees create a tranquil setting that feels almost magical.

Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. We spotted various birds, squirrels, and even a deer from a distance. The chance to connect with nature in such an intimate way truly enhances the hiking experience.

Trail Challenges: While the trail is generally accessible, there are some moderate inclines that may require a bit of effort. However, the stunning views and the feeling of accomplishment make every step worthwhile. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days.

Final Thoughts: Cedar Ridge Trail is more than just a hike; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature and find a sense of peace away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, this trail is a must-visit. Don't forget your camera—you'll want to capture the stunning views along the way!

Overall, I can’t recommend Cedar Ridge Trail enough. It's a beautiful nature bath hike that leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to the great outdoors....

I've been hiking at Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve for over 15 years, and it truly offers some of the best trails in the DFW area. Just a short drive from downtown Dallas, it features over nine miles of scenic paths through native woods, wildflowers, and peaceful spots like Cattail Pond. The overlooks of Joe Pool Lake never get old. Whether you're a beginner or experienced hiker, there's a trail for you.

There’s also a donation bin at the main entrance, contributions go a long way in helping maintain the trails and support the preserve’s upkeep. It does get busy on weekends, so I recommend arriving early. For a refreshing escape into nature, Cedar Ridge never...