Nancy Dillard Lyon

The Nancy Dillard Lyon Trail in Grand Prairie was named for a woman from an influential Texas family who tragically died at her husband's hands. Stretching about 3 miles on the Grand Prairie side of Highway 360, this 10-foot wide cement trail is part of the longer Fish Creek Linear Park Trail. Because it follows along the south fork of Fish Creek, wetlands and wildlife can be found here including many species of singing birds, frogs and really big turtles, and small mammals foraging for their next meals and nesting materials. Cricket frogs chirp nearby as you walk along the creek, and wildflowers make a showy display in the spring. The path is well-landscaped and the view is pleasant and soothing, making for a great tandem hike with your furry bestie!

As the trail winds along the creek, you'll find lots of cool shade, rest areas with facilities, and a few water fountains. Benches are scattered on the sides of the trail, and picnic areas beckon with the promise of a sit and a snack.

If you're of the mind to give your fur-baby some extra exercise besides taking you for a walk, stop in at the Tails and Trail Dog Park further west on the Fish Creek Trail in Arlington. The dog park backs up close to the trail, with an entry at the trailside. The Nancy Dillard Lyon Trail connects seamlessly with the Arlington side of the creek beyond a bridge that features a pawsome view up and down the waterway. 

Whether you plan to hike the Nancy Dillard Lyon Trail, take a bike ride, or roll along on your in-line skates with Fido on a leash by your side, you'll find this to be an extremely pleasant, easy trip, with no rocks or roots to contend with. The biggest hazards on this trail are the other outdoor-loving humans and their canine companions! Remember to give them plenty of room and respect their journeys as well.