Four C National Hiking Trail

No one really thinks of Texas when they are thinking of long hikes, but one of the best hikes you can go on is the number one hiking trail in the Davey Crocket National Forest, known as the 4-C National Recreation Trail. It travels through the natural forests, with a packed soil terrain and 3-foot width. This is one of the best trails for you and Fido since no vehicles, horses or bicyclists are allowed on the trail, leaving it a pretty secluded walk.

At the Ratcliff Campground, you can find the trailhead for the trail, which right off the bat offers pretty views of the surrounding forests and Ratcliff Lake. There are restrooms, water fountains, and trash bins inside the campsite which will provide good resources before setting out with your pup.

The southern section of the trail is very easy, with few elevation changes and a well-kept trail that makes it easy to hike. The trail follows along pine stands, bottomland hardwoods, sloughs and upland forests. There are a couple bridges that pass over streams, along with open meadows that surround certain parts of the trails. About three miles into the trail, there's a pretty pond that offers options for fishing and photos.

There's plenty of wildlife you'll view along with your hike, like deer, snakes, frogs, hawks, warblers, beavers, and coyotes. The trail stays pretty moderate, gaining high elevation points along the northern section, but nothing too crazy. The surrounding trees provide constant shade until you reach the northern endpoint of Neches Bluff Campground, where the trail ends. Inside the campground, there are restrooms, water fountains, trash bins, and dog-friendly campsites that are free.

With this quiet and secluded area, you and Fido will have some great one on one time while enjoying the amenities of the forest, like wildlife viewing and scenic sights of the forests.