Tucked behind the Colleyville Senior Center, an existing half-mile concrete walking loop once sat in planning limbo. Today, that pathway is becoming a new outdoor destination in North Texas: the Texas Tree Trail.
Designed as a living tree museum, the trail showcases the diversity of Texas tree species. With 64 flowering trees and 86 nonflowering trees already planted, the city is creating a destination for residents of all ages to explore and enjoy.
How did the Texas Tree Trail begin?
The idea for the Texas Tree Trail emerged as city officials explored how to use undeveloped land behind the Colleyville Senior Center.
During renovations of the Senior Center building several years ago, the city considered utilizing the property for additional outdoor recreation purposes with amenities such as a playground. At that time, the Senior Center building housed both senior and youth recreational program
However, when the opportunity arose to purchase a former church and convert it into a standalone recreation center, the senior center returned to its original purpose, leaving the surrounding acreage available for other uses.
Around the same time, the city's Tree Board, comprising residents and staff, was discussing ways to encourage tree planting throughout Colleyville. During those conversations, staff member and landscape designer Joe Flynn proposed transforming the existing walking loop into an educational tree trail.
The Tree Board endorsed the concept, and City Council supported moving forward with planting.
"Colleyville really prioritizes trees — it's part of our identity. We're a Tree City USA," Assistant City Manager Adrienne Lothery said. "We're kind of the opposite of an urban jungle, if you will."
What can visitors explore?
The Texas Tree Trail features 150 newly planted trees, including 64 flowering and 86 nonflowering trees, arranged to showcase different Texas species and varieties.
Along the half-mile paved loop, visitors can explore themed sections such as Oak Alley and Elm Way, where related tree varieties are planted together to highlight differences in their leaves, bark and canopy structure.
By combining evergreens with flowering trees that bloom at different times of the year, the city designed the trail to offer a changing landscape each season.
"Visitors can keep coming back because there's always something different to see," Lothery said. "The trees change with the seasons, so each visit offers a new experience."
While many of the trees are still young, city officials expect the trail to develop a fuller canopy as the landscape matures.
What will visitors learn?
Beyond providing a scenic walking destination, the Texas Tree Trail is designed to serve as an outdoor classroom for all ages.
A monument sign already marks the trail's entrance, and city staff are developing educational signage to help visitors identify and learn about different tree varieties. The city hopes to install the signs within the next year.
The trail also borders O.C. Taylor Elementary School, creating opportunities for students to access the property for field trips and outdoor learning.
As the trees mature, students, families and seniors will be able to observe seasonal changes, compare tree characteristics and learn about Texas' natural environment.
What's planned next?
City officials envision developing the trail in phases, adding amenities as the trees grow. Potential improvements include:
A gazebo near the trail's midpoint for picnics and gatherings.
Additional pathways and benches throughout the property.
Landscaping beds that complement the tree collection.
While those enhancements remain part of the long-term vision, the existing concrete trail already provides a walking destination for seniors, families and residents with strollers.
As the trees mature and new features are introduced, the Texas Tree Trail will continue evolving into a destination for education, recreation and appreciation of Colleyville's natural surroundings.
Ready to explore?
Residents can visit the Texas Tree Trail behind the Colleyville Senior Center to walk the half-mile loop, explore Texas tree varieties and experience the changing landscape throughout the year.
Location: Behind the Colleyville Senior Center
Address: 2512 Glade Road, Colleyville
Trail length: Half-mile paved loop
Website: www.texastreetrail.com
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Texas Tree Trail located?
The Texas Tree Trail is behind the Colleyville Senior Center at 2512 Glade Road in Colleyville. It features a half-mile paved walking loop.
How many trees are planted along the Texas Tree Trail?
The trail features 150 newly planted trees, including 64 flowering and 86 nonflowering trees. The collection showcases Texas tree species and varieties, including oaks and elms.
What makes the Texas Tree Trail unique?
The Texas Tree Trail serves as a living tree museum where visitors can explore themed sections, compare tree varieties and observe seasonal changes as the landscape matures.
Will the Texas Tree Trail offer educational opportunities?
Yes. The city is developing educational signage to help visitors identify different trees. The trail's proximity to O.C. Taylor Elementary School also creates opportunities for student field trips and outdoor learning.
What future improvements are planned for the Texas Tree Trail?
Potential improvements include a gazebo, additional walking pathways, benches, landscaping beds and educational signage. The city plans to develop the trail in phases as the trees mature.
