Where Exactly Is Lake Highlands?

Lake Highlands sits in Northeast Dallas, roughly five miles — about a 15 to 20 minute drive — from downtown, with quick access to both I-635 (LBJ Freeway) and US-75 (Central Expressway). The Forest Lane DART Rail Station sits less than a mile from many neighborhood addresses, and the LBJ/Central Station isn't far either, so getting around without a car is realistic here in a way it isn't in a lot of Dallas suburbs.

What Is There to Do Outdoors in Lake Highlands?

This is the neighborhood's biggest draw. White Rock Lake itself covers 1,015 acres and is ringed by a 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail — long enough for a serious training run, flat enough for an easy evening walk. Beyond the lake:

  • Harry S. Moss Park connects to the White Rock Creek Trail for a quieter, more wooded alternative to the lake loop.
  • Flag Pole Hill Park is a favorite for picnics, disc golf, and lake-adjacent green space.
  • The lake's amenities include boat ramps, a kayak concession, a dog park, a Bath House Cultural Center, and an Audubon Society bird-watching area.
  • The Dallas Arboretum sits at the lake's southern edge if you want a change of pace from trail running to garden walking.

What's the Food and Shopping Scene Like?

Lake Highlands leans toward everyday convenience over trendy destination dining — think local coffee shops, family-owned restaurants, and casual spots along Skillman Street and Northwest Highway, with larger retail centers just a short drive away for anything more specific. It's a neighborhood built for regulars, not tourists, which a lot of residents count as a feature, not a limitation.

How Do Residents Get Around?

Most people drive, but Lake Highlands has more transit access than its suburban feel suggests. The Forest Lane DART Rail Station and the LBJ/Central Station both connect the neighborhood to downtown Dallas and beyond, and Dallas Love Field is about 15 miles away for residents who fly frequently. Average commute times in the area run close to Dallas's citywide norm, helped along by direct highway access on both the north and south sides of the neighborhood.

Is Lake Highlands Good for Families and Pets?

Yes, on both counts. The neighborhood is zoned for Richardson ISD, a district families specifically move here to access, with schools including Skyview and Moss Haven elementary, Forest Meadow Junior High, and Lake Highlands High School. For pets, the trail network around White Rock Lake and Harry Moss Park doubles as some of the best dog-walking terrain in Dallas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Lake Highlands from downtown Dallas?

About five miles, or roughly a 15 to 20 minute drive depending on traffic, with direct access via I-635 and US-75.

What school district serves Lake Highlands?

Richardson ISD serves the Lake Highlands neighborhood, including Skyview and Moss Haven elementary schools, Forest Meadow Junior High School, and Lake Highlands High School.

Is White Rock Lake within walking distance of Lake Highlands apartments?

Many Lake Highlands communities, including The Link, are just minutes from White Rock Lake and its 9.33-mile trail system.

What's the best way to get to downtown Dallas without a car?

The Forest Lane and LBJ/Central DART Rail stations both serve the neighborhood and connect directly into downtown Dallas.

Want to call Lake Highlands home? See available apartments at The Link, just minutes from White Rock Lake.