The Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve is a scenic, rich in wildlife, slice of hill country. Formerly the Dallas Nature Center, the preserve spans 600 acres between Mountain Creek Parkway and FM 1382, 20 minutes from downtown Dallas. The natural habitat is jointly owned by the city of Dallas and Dallas County, and features native trees, grasses and wildflowers to display the natural beauty of the area.

The Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve offers a variety of amenities, including nine miles of walking trails ranging from easy to difficult, providing the perfect experience for any hiker. Birdwatching is a popular activity year-round, and the preserve is home to the rare black-capped vireo, as well as a wide variety of wildlife. The center also features butterfly gardens and picnic areas.

Visitors can read how eastern red cedars meet ash junipers and Austin chalk meets the Eagle Ford Shale in a Possumhaw Trail interpretive guide, bring binoculars for birding or explore the five-senses garden, featuring a half-mile, handicap-accessible trail, native plants, prairie grass and a toothache tree.

Location: 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy. For more information, call 972-709-7785 or visit AudubonDallas.org.