It’s easy enough to do with the Trinity Trails being so convenient to the 107. But if you don’t want to share your walk with cyclists and are looking for something more bucolic, head east to Tandy Hills Natural Area, 160 acres of native prairie that sits in the long shadow of downtown Fort Worth. If you’re driving on I-30 headed east, you can’t miss the chunk of land untouched by development. 

Up close, it’s even prettier. And while it lacks the color that comes with spring’s blooms, the winter landscape is appealing on its own thanks to tall grasses and the abundance of birds getting their fill of seeds from the dead heads of faded flowers. 

It’s now designated as a protected area, but Tandy Hills has faced past threats (dirt bikes, development, fracking). Present-day intruders gather off-trail, leave trash behind and unwittingly contribute to the destruction of the ecosystem. The pandemic forced the cancellation of events such as the Prairie Sky/Star Parties, held jointly with the Fort Worth Astronomical Society. 

The new year’s Manly Men & Wild Women Hike the Hills, which traces the border of the property and is led by founder Don Young, also looks unlikely. But you’re welcome to hike on your own (leashed dogs are allowed, too). Hours are sunrise to sunset; just follow the rules and stay on the designated trails. Find a map and lots of useful information on the website. 3400 View St., tandyhills.org