A big riverside park in north Arlington

River Legacy Park follows the Trinity River through North Arlington. The City of Arlington lists the main address at 701 NW Green Oaks Blvd. Published acreage varies by source, from roughly 1,000 to 1,300 acres of forest floodplain, so treat the exact size as approximate.

The city describes hardwood floodplain forest, a pond and the river, and says about 400 species of wildlife have been recorded here, including 193 species of birds. That makes it an easy place to try bird watching without leaving town.

Getting in and planning your day

The River Legacy Foundation lists park hours of 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. The main entrance is on Green Oaks Boulevard, and a second entrance sits at 3020 N. Collins St. A pedestrian bridge over the river connects the two sides, according to the Arlington visitors listing, which also says parking is free.

For walkers and runners, the park offers about 8 miles of paved hike-and-bike trail. Mountain bikers get a separate 10-mile trail built and maintained by the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association. Those dirt trails can close after rain, so check current trail conditions before loading the bikes.

Families will find a custom playground, picnic areas, and river overlooks. The city's River Legacy Park page says the playground includes a life-size T-Rex skeleton, which is a hit with younger kids.

The Living Science Center

Next door at 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd., the River Legacy Living Science Center serves as the park's nature center. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The city describes terrariums and aquariums of native wildlife, an exhibit hall, self-guided stations, and a gift shop.

The foundation says the trails and nature center are free, while the Discovery Room and some exhibits carry a fee. Exhibit areas can close for installations, so call 817-860-6752 to confirm what is open before you go.

Paddling the Trinity

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department lists the River Legacy Parks Paddling Trail as roughly 2 to 8 miles, depending on how far you go. The launch is on Collins Street just north of Green Oaks, next to the pedestrian bridge. A trip can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on water level, flow, and wind.

Conditions matter here. The state says the first riffle, about a mile upstream, requires a portage. Flow shifts with upstream reservoir releases and runoff, so skip the trip in high or turbulent water. The water is suitable for canoeing and kayaking but not for swimming, and a fish consumption advisory covers the stretch. Many riverbanks are private, and TPWD says paddlers may use the banks only if they must portage a hazard.

Pavilions, rules and a quick checklist

Groups can reserve pavilions through Arlington Parks and Recreation at 817-459-5473. The city lists the Legacy Pavilion at $300 on weekdays and $400 on weekends or holidays, while Elm Grove and Raccoon Run are $90 each. Confirm current rates and availability when you book.

Professional photography in the park needs a permit from the city. The Living Science Center has its own photography guidelines, which ask clients not to pick plants or climb trees during shoots. Either way, it is a good idea to treat the park's plants and trees gently.

A good first visit is simple. Park at the Green Oaks entrance, walk a stretch of paved trail, then finish at the Living Science Center before it closes at 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.