Northshore Trail TX

Carved into the limestone bluffs of Grapevine Lake, the Northshore Trail links the Murrell and Rockledge trailheads with 11 rugged miles each way—22 miles round-trip if you’ve got the legs. Opened in 1992 by Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association volunteers, the trail has earned a national reputation for rocky ledges, cedar-root switchbacks, and panoramic lake overlooks that leave first-time riders stunned they’re still inside the DFW Metroplex. Mountain bikers flock here for technical cardio, trail-runners chase PRs on flowing single-track, and hikers find pockets of solitude among junipers scented by lake breezes.

Trail Sections & Difficulty

Murrell to Twin Coves (Miles 0–4)

Starting at Murrell Park’s kiosk, the green-blazed loop warms riders with rolling cedar flats before dropping into limestone stair-steps—perfect for practicing balance and pedal timing. A side spur to Twin Coves Park offers water and bathrooms, then rejoins the mainline at Mile 4.

Horseshoe & Waffle Ridges (Miles 4–8)

Here the trail hugs 30-foot cliffs with peek-aboo water views; expert line choices snake around ankle-biter rocks and quick punchy climbs nicknamed “the Waffle Maker.” Trail etiquette: ride counter-clockwise on odd dates, clockwise on even to keep traffic predictable.

Rockledge Roller Coaster (Miles 8–11)

The eastern leg lives up to its name—natural berms and limestone rollers let experienced riders pump without pedaling. Hikers often start at Rockledge Park’s gatehouse and amble to “Mile 9 Overlook,” a bluff clearing that frames sunrise spilling across the lake.

Amenities & Logistics

• Trail Status Hotline: 972-874-6394 updates closures after rain. Riding wet damages tread—respect the call.
  
• Water & Restrooms: Available at Murrell Park (vault toilets) and Rockledge Park (flush). Carry hydration bladders; summer temps hit 100 °F.
  
• Tools & Rentals: Grapevine Bike Center (15 min drive) rents hardtails and sells CO₂ cartridges; they staff free pop-up wrench tents during DORBA workdays.
• User Fees: Murrell trailhead is free; Rockledge charges $10/vehicle on weekends.