The spring and fall months in Southeast Texas are the perfect time to venture outdoors and take advantage of local hiking spots and scenic views.

Wildtree’s Hillside Amenity Village is slated to open in 2026 with miles of trails, an event lawn, a playground, resort-style pool and more—the perfect destination for enjoying the outdoors close to home.

Beyond the community, there’s a number of scenic spots for hiking near Wildtree—from the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail that winds through the Sam Houston National Forest to the 14-mile Spring Creek Nature Trail that follows the Spring Creek wetlands.

Go Hiking

Lone Star Hiking Trail system: Enjoy a primitive, backcountry hike through the Sam Houston National Forest on the Lone Star Hiking Trail, the state’s longest hiking trail. Catch Trailhead No. 1 about 30 minutes north of Wildtree in Richards, Texas, with limited parking available at the trailhead. The first 95 miles of the foot-traffic-only trail runs from Richards to Cleveland with loop trails perfect for shorter hikes.

– Southeast corner of FM 149 and Forest Road 219, Richards

W. G. Jones State Forest: Head southeast of Wildtree on FM 1488 and take a hike through the W.G. Jones State Forest, which is open year-round during daylight hours. Known as a birding hotspot, you may see unique species like the red-cockaded woodpecker here. Hiking and biking are allowed on all state forest roads and trails, while horseback riding is also allowed on some trails in the forest.

– 1328 FM 1488, Conroe

Lake Creek Preserve: Hike through a forested area along Lake Creek in the Lake Creek Preserve, located east of Wildtree in Montgomery. With lush vegetation and elevated boardwalks, the preserve allows you to explore the wetland habitat. Cyclists and hikers share the trails.

– Sendera Ranch Drive, south of Woodforest Parkway, Montgomery

Spring Creek Nature Trail: Explore the beauty of Spring Creek as you hike the 14-mile Spring Creek Nature Trail that spans The Woodlands area to the south of Wildtree. If you plan to hike the trail in its entirety, be sure to allot about 8 hours to do so. For the nearest access, pick up the trail at its western end at Burroughs Park in Tomball or at the Creekside Park West Trailhead. The trail is open to hikers and bikers.

– Burroughs Park, 9738 Hufsmith Road, Tomball

Montgomery County Preserve: With access to the eastern end of the Spring Creek Nature Trail, the Montgomery County Preserve is less than an hour drive from Wildtree and features its own trails for hikers to enjoy in the preserve, as well.

– 1118 Pruitt Road, The Woodlands

Little Cypress Creek Preserve: Take a drive south on Hwy. 249 from Wildtree and enjoy a hike through the Little Cypress Creek Preserve. You may see swamp rabbits or three-toed box turtles here as you hike the nature trails.

– Telge and Spring Cypress Roads, Cypress

10 Tips Before You Go

Whether you’re hiking on a primitive trail or taking a family stroll through the woods, you’ll want to be prepared.

1. Experts recommend bringing at least one liter of water per 2 hours of hiking for each person as well as snacks.
2. Make sure to pack sun protection, a first aid kit, insect repellent, and a fully charged phone.
3. Wear good walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
4. Familiarize yourself with the trail route before you arrive.
5. Check trail conditions and the upcoming weather forecast before embarking on the hike.
6. Stay on the trail and leave any plants, vegetation, or animals alone, as some could be dangerous or poisonous.
7. Be knowledgeable of what wildlife you may encounter on the trail.
8. Bring a friend if you can, as hiking with a companion is safer (and more fun!).
9. Know your physical limits and take breaks if needed.
10. Be careful and watch where you are walking, especially if the ground is slippery or uneven.

Be Close to Adventure

Immerse yourself in the outdoors and find more adventures nearby in Magnolia, The Woodlands, and Tomball by moving to Wildtree by Shea Homes. Eight model homes are open to tour in Wildtree starting at 1,500 square feet and priced from the $320,000s. Choose from 40-, 50-, 60-, and 70-foot homesites to fit your lifestyle.