Tyler State Park, just north of its namesake city, is a lush woodland paradise featuring more than 10 miles of trails that are perfect for mountain biking. Grab your gear and get ready to go with the flow.

The bike-friendly trails are divided into five connected loops that can be ridden individually or as one long trail. The EZ Loop is, as one might assume, fairly easy. At about 1.7 miles and mostly flat, it’s a perfect warm-up. Loops A, B, C and D are harder, with C and D being the most difficult.

The trails are designed with riding in mind, featuring long, sustained downhills and some challenging climbs. Loop B, for example, is around 3 miles, beginning with a flowy sloping downhill and crossing a few wooden bridges. Loop C is a more difficult black diamond trail, and earns its rating for gnarly roots, prevalent switchbacks and steep uphills.

Most trails are flanked by tall trees and carpeted in a soft blanket of pine needles or leaves, and all offer lovely woodland views — including the park’s trademark 100-foot-tall pine trees.

“During the spring or the fall is probably the best time to come out,” says Steven Simmons, a park operations trainee. “In the spring everything is a really vibrant green, and then you have the fall colors. When the sun hits the leaves it’s just spectacular.”

Call ahead to make sure the trails are open for bikers. Per park rules, mountain bikers ride clockwise and hikers hike counter-clockwise on multi-use trails.   

Piney Paradise

From camping to swimming to hiking, Tyler State Park has something for everyone.