Back HomeWhere to Run, Bike, or Hike In and Around College Station, TX
There’s a ton of College Station, TX activities for lovers of the great outdoors.
If the sedentary lifestyle is not your style, you’ll feel right at home in College Station. Whether you love hiking, biking, or going for a run outdoors, this part of Brazos Valley offers no shortage of ways to stay active.
From scenic trails to nature preserves, these are some of the best spots to enjoy your favorite College Station, TX activities.
- Millican Reserve
Located about 12 miles south of downtown College Station, Millican Reserve offers a peaceful escape and plenty of room to move. This scenic area is home to the newest mountain bike trails in the Brazos Valley— ideal for riders and bikers of all skill levels.
Access: $10/month for a TrailPass or $30/month for a Conservancy Membership
Key Amenities:
- Over 30 miles of private trails
- Carefully maintained wilderness paths
- Scenic routes for all skill levels
- Lake Bryan
Lake Bryan is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering biking, running, and hiking. Just 10 miles northwest of College Station, it’s a convenient spot for a weekend getaway or a quick nature escape. You can also go for a day trip and enjoy the swimming areas and camping grounds.
Access: Day use fee is $5/person; Annual Pass is $75/vehicle
Key Amenities:
- 20 miles of hiking, biking, and running trails
- E-bikes are allowed
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Wolf Pen Creek Park
Right in the heart of College Station lies the 63-acre Wolf Pen Creek Park. Its out-and-back trail stretches for about 5.1 km (just over 3 miles) and takes an hour to complete on average, making it ideal for a casual walk, jog, or bike ride. Its central location makes it an easy outdoor getaway for nature lovers of all ages.
Access: Free admission
Key Amenities:
- Paved walking and biking trails
- Scenic pond and bridges
- Great green spaces
- Lick Creek Park
At over 500 acres, Lick Creek Park is one of College Station’s largest and most beloved natural spaces. Located about 7 miles from the city center, it offers a quiet, immersive outdoor experience with 5 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature, spot local wildlife, or enjoy a peaceful run away from the bustle of town.
Access: Free admission, though some special programs or guided tours at the Nature Center may require a small fee.
Key Amenities:
- 5 miles of nature trails
- Home to a variety of native plants and animals
- Restrooms and educational exhibits available at the Lick Creek Nature Center
- Deer Run Trail
Situated within Lick Creek Park, Deer Run Trail is a scenic path known for its serene atmosphere and occasional wildlife sightings. Popular among hikers, mountain bikers, and birdwatchers, this trail offers a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors. With free access and connections to other routes in the park, it’s a go-to spot for nature lovers looking to explore.
Access: Free admission
Key Amenities:
- 10-foot wide natural dirt and gravel trail
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Benches along the trail
- Trail connections to other Lick Creek routes
- Research Park Loop
Research Park features a 2.4 km loop trail surrounded by trees, open fields, and a peaceful pond— ideal for jogging, biking, or unwinding outdoors. Just a short 3-mile drive from downtown College Station and adjacent to the Texas A&M campus, it’s easily accessible for students and residents alike. The park is free to visit and open year-round, making it a great spot for a budget-friendly outdoor retreat.
Access: Free admission
Key Amenities:
- Paved walking and biking paths
- Pond with fountains and seating areas
- Open fields for picnicking or sports
- Shaded pavilions
- Veteran’s Park Loop
At Veteran’s Park and Athletic Complex, you can find Veteran’s Park Loop— a well-maintained, 1.5-mile paved trail ideal for walking, running, and cycling. It’s an easy-to-reach spot for a quick workout or a leisurely stroll. While the trail and park grounds are free to access, some sports facilities may require a reservation or fee.
Access: Free admission
Key Amenities:
- 1.5-mile paved loop trail
- Sports fields and courts
- Veteran Memorial Site
- Restrooms and picnic areas
MAKE COLLEGE STATION YOUR HOME
College Station is a fantastic place to live, offering the perfect mix of city convenience and outdoor adventure. With its many parks, trails, and nature preserves, residents enjoy endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and running—all just minutes from home.
Ready to find your home here? Contact Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Caliber Realty at 979.694.8844 or send an email here to get started with a team that knows College Station inside and out.
