Knight Rider

The Knight Rider Trail

(Highland) Sometimes, the best hikes are the ones that surprise you. Not because they are amazingly awesome, but because you weren't expecting a lot from them. For me, the Knight Rider Trail in Highland is exactly that. The trail isn’t long, steep, or famous, but it’s a nice little hike if you’re looking for something easy, peaceful, and quick to just get outside.

There are several trails in this area but signs keep you on track

I hiked it with my dog Timber in the Spring of 2024 when the weather was just right. We had blue skies, a cool breeze, and that early-season smell of thawing earth and fresh grass. The trail winds through open meadows and pockets of trees, with enough space to feel like you're away from the nearby neighborhood even though you're right behind it. My favorite part is the little bridge that crosses a creek. Of course, Timber had to get into the water.

Timber being her silly self

Now, I’ll be honest, we almost didn’t make it past the trailhead. Within minutes or parking and starting to walk down the little hill, I saw a snake slither across the path. If you know me, you know snakes are not my thing. I immediately froze at the huge ten foot (it was maybe a foot) cobra python (garden snake) massive reptile coming at me (it was scurrying away from me) and considered turning around. However, Timber was already on her way and she was so happy to be outside, I had to keep going. Fortunately I survived that brutal snake encounter.

I barely survived this encounter

I’m glad I did I kept going. Once that initial adrenaline wore off, I settled into just enjoying the trees, the sound of the stream, and the feeling of being outside. That stream made it a relaxing hike and the shade from the trees really helped. It's not a long hike. Knight Rider is only 1.2 miles out and back, but it’s just enough to stretch your legs and reset your brain.

The trees give great shade next to the stream

It's great for families, dogs, or anyone looking for a low-effort nature break. I noticed plenty of mountain bikers and trail runners as well. This trail is part of a larger trail system called Highland Hollow Park. My only advice for this trail, watch out for snakes.

Short easy hikes make me smile

TRAILHEAD LOCATION:

10527 Canterbury Drive

Highland

GOOGLE MAPS LINK

This is how most of the trial looks once you get into the trees