Description

According to [NTX Trails](https://ntxtrails.com/mtb-trails/northwest/cross-timbers-trail/), Cross Timbers is "largely considered one of the most difficult trails in all North Texas," if not the entire region.

While it sees less bike traffic than that of hikers and runners, those willing to make the drive and experience the stunning lakeside singletrack will undoubtedly want to come back for more.

Maintained entirely by volunteers, this out-and-back route tours epic singletrack with optional tech lines and punchy climbs, plus a few extra miles if you choose to ride the Lost Loop.

If you want to feel like you're far from the city, there is no better ride to enjoy than Cross Timbers. Blazed with white dots, often mason jar lids, the trail occasionally splits for separate lines between hiking and biking.

Bikes should keep an eye on red arrows, which usually avoid narrow lines or more eroded segments of trail.

Green arrows signify a hiking-only route.

The option to ride Lost Loop is also a nice addition to the main line, but remember to bring plenty of water since you do get quite far out there.

From the northernmost point, you may even enjoy some partial views of the lake if you know where to look. The most common way to begin the trail is to access it from Cedar Bayou, its eastern trailhead.

Parking on the western end at Paw Paw Creek Resort is less common due to the drive, but may make sense for some and requires a parking fee.

Water and restrooms are available at both, but not immediately at the trailhead. While not mapped here, those looking for an even more technical ride can link Cedar Bayou northeast to Juniper Point, the trail's true eastern terminus.

The trail traverses an endless selection of rocks and roots for what [NTX Trails](https://ntxtrails.com/mtb-trails/northwest/cross-timbers-trail/) describes as "harrowingly gnarly descents." As for the trail's history, Cross Timbers notes a divide in eastern forest and southern plains, as well as a separation between the previous Native American settlers, [this source notes](https://www.laketexoma.com/news--outdoors--Cross-Timbers-Hiking-Trail-at-Lake-Texoma/7206).

While increasingly rare, ancient trees can still be found in places, including a 500+-year-old red cedar and 400+-year-old post oak north towards Tulsa.

These giants serve as a reminder of an important stage in our pioneering history and westward expansion. Sources: https://ntxtrails.com/mtb-trails/northwest/cross-timbers-trail/ https://www.laketexoma.com/news--outdoors--Cross-Timbers-Hiking-Trail-at-Lake-Texoma/7206