After months of blazing heat, that first cool breeze feels like an open invitation. Fall in Dallas means golden light, crisp mornings, and weekends made for being outside again. It’s the perfect time to trade pool bags for bike helmets and enjoy a little fresh-air fun together.
Whether your family loves a relaxed ride by the lake or a scenic trail with a view, these routes are easy, safe, and surprisingly beautiful. Pack some water, grab your helmets, and get ready to pedal into fall.
1. White Rock Lake Trail — The Classic Ride
If you only do one Dallas-area ride, make it White Rock. This 9.3-mile loop is mostly flat, fully paved, and filled with lake views, ducks, and plenty of places to stop for a snack or photo. Plus, families love the open space, breezy water views, and easy parking options around Lakewood Park and the Bath House Cultural Center.
TSDL Tip: Pair your ride with a White Rock Coffee Run — swing by White Rock Coffee’s flagship location on Northwest Highway before or after your ride. Their locally roasted brews and cozy vibe make it the perfect pit stop for a warm drink or a little post-ride S’mores Rice Krispies Treat. Or, if you’d rather linger by the lake, bring a thermos and enjoy your coffee on the grassy area near the boathouse — it’s especially lovely at sunset.
2. White Rock Creek Trail – Ice Cream Run
Park at one of several options at Northwest Highway and W. Lawther ( the bike shop lot parking lot or along the street outside The Parc at White Rock apartments), then hop on the White Rock Creek Trail heading north toward Lake Highlands Town Center. The ride is beautiful, shaded in parts, and ends perfectly with a sweet stop at Yogurtland — the best kind of motivation for the ride back. After all, who doesn’t love a little dessert incentive?
TSDL Tip: Pack a few wet wipes or a small towel — sticky fingers and happy smiles are guaranteed.
3. Katy Trail — Urban Energy Meets Outdoor Fun
Katy Trail gives you that city-meets-nature feeling — a tree-lined path that stretches from Uptown to the SMU area. It’s well maintained and ideal for confident young riders or family strolls on wheels. In addition, there’s plenty of people-watching and fun pit stops along the way.
TSDL Tip: Wrap up your ride with brunch at Katy Trail Ice House or The Rustic. It’s an only-in-Dallas kind of weekend ritual.
4. Trinity Skyline Trail — Ride with a View
This 4.6-mile paved path runs alongside the Trinity River with skyline views that make you remember why you love this city. Moreover, the trail is smooth, scenic, and rarely crowded, making it great for families who want something new without going far.
TSDL Tip: Sunset rides here are unforgettable — bring your camera and a small blanket for an impromptu picnic by the levee.
5. Preston Ridge – A Sweet, Fun Trail and Playground Combo
Preston Ridge combines a fun, kid-friendly trail with playground stops along the way. Rolling hills and shaded stretches make it enjoyable for families of all ages, and best of all, little ones will love the chance to explore safely off the bike.
TSDL Tip: Pack a snack and plan for a playground stop — the mix of riding and play keeps energy high and smiles wide.
6. Trinity Audubon Trail – Snake Spotting Adventure for Older Riders
This trail is ideal for families with older kids or confident young riders. Meandering through natural areas, you may spot snakes, birds, and other wildlife along the way. Smooth sections mix with natural terrain for a slightly more adventurous ride.
TSDL Tip: Keep a close eye on little ones and bring a field guide or phone to identify wildlife — it adds an educational twist to your ride. I’ve even spotted a water moccasin along the edge of the sidewalk here — a great reminder to stay aware of your surroundings and give wildlife plenty of space.
7. The Colony Shoreline Trail — Gravel, Grit, and Maybe a Swim
The Colony Shoreline Trail that leads to Stuart Creek Park isn’t for the faint of heart — loose gravel and uneven terrain make for a bumpy ride. Still, if your crew’s strong and resilient and up for a little adventure, it’s a fun one. The lake views are gorgeous, and somehow, someone always ends up splashing in by the end — planned or not. We begin our adventure in the parking lot at Ridgepointe Park, and ride until we hit Stewart Creek Park.
TSDL Tip: Bring towels (just in case) – the impromptu swims are half the fun.
8. Denton Katy Trail — A Day Trip Worth Taking
If your family’s up for a little adventure, head north to the Denton Katy Trail. This 8-mile, mostly shaded route connects Denton to Lake Dallas and is ideal for older kids or families with bike trailers.
TSDL Tip: Plan a stop at Denton Square afterward for lunch, coffee, or a quick browse through the local shops — a perfect way to cap off the ride.
9. Goats on Dallas Trails? Yes, Really!
If you’re pedaling along the Northhaven Trail this fall, keep your eyes peeled for some unusual helpers. Goats are clearing brush and make room for wildflowers, turning your ride into a mini wildlife encounter. Friendly, curious, and surprisingly photogenic, these trail-clearing goats are a playful, family-friendly twist on your usual bike ride!
TSDL Tip: Don’t start your ride without checking in — the goats move around! Peek at this map to see where the trail-clearing crew is expected to roam and plan your route accordingly.
