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Northshore Trail: Rockledge Park Loop

A local-favorite hike through beautiful woodlands with nice views from the northern shore of Lake Grapevine.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
8.6 km
Ascent
88 m
Descent
88 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
163 m
High Point
180 m
Gradient
Northshore Trail: Rockledge Park Loop Map

Northshore is one of the most recognized, recommended, and diverse trail systems in the greater-DFW area. Situated on the northern shore of Lake Grapevine, the trail tours rocky shorelines, sandpits, bamboo forests, rolling climbs, and just about everything in between. Numerous access points, including nearby neighborhoods and parks, make it easy to hop on the trail wherever you'd like, and the stacked loop layout makes it easy to build upon this hike if you're looking for longer miles.

Description

Northshore is split into east and west sections, divided roughly by Murrell Park in Flower Mound. The east includes loops 1 through 4 for just over 12-miles of forested trail, rolling hills, and a few climbs and descents. Compared to the western loops on the other side of Murrell Park, the eastern trails are much easier and more suited for hiking since they see less mountain biking traffic.

There are 5 major trailheads for Northshore: Murrell Park (aka MADD Shelter), Twin Coves Park, and Rockledge Park (seen here) are the most popular points to access the trail, though all require a parking fee. Restrooms and water are available at each. Lakeside and Boy Scout Camp are the other two, with the prior accessible from town and a nearby bike shop. Both are free and offer access to loops 3 and 4 on the east side of the park.

As with any trail situated on a lake in Texas, flooding can be a problem during times of heavy rain. In fact, at different points in its life, Northshore has been given a full facelift by mother nature when much of its singletrack flooded. As such, please be respectful of the signage placed at the trailhead indicating whether the trails are open or closed.

Sources: https://ntxtrails.com/mtb-trails/northwest/northshore-trail/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Guidebooks in this area