Hiking in Austin isn’t about hot walks in the desert as tumbleweeds blow past you. You will be surprised how much the gorgeous city has to offer. Austin is indeed well known for its impressive festivals and live music scene. The capital of Texas is also filled with scenic and accessible trails, city parks, greenbelts, and swimming holes that will help you manage your daily green fix without going overboard.
Walking your dog around the neighborhood doesn’t have to be the only way to experience the outdoors: you can hike to the nearby waterfalls and witness gorgeous scenery. And with your furry friend. But you must be cautious, hike early in the morning during the summer, and always pack a swimsuit for a refreshing dip. So, without much delay, here are the 12 best picks for hiking in Austin:
Best Austin Hiking Trails
1. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Cutting through the heart of the city, Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is a perfect urban trail for those who want a zero-travel or after-work jaunt. The rail is almost 10 miles depending on how long you stay on it. It is easy to access and gives you stunning views of the town lake. You can choose your adventure by riding, running, or walking the 10-mile loop. If you get exhausted after the long walk, take a quick detour for a snack at Auditorium Shores or Fiesta Gardens.
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2. McKinney Falls State Park
If you want to meditate and relax at a waterfall oasis after a long hike, mark McKinney Falls State Park off your bucket list. You will be required to pay a small park fee but it is worth every bit as you meander through the trail to reach impressive waterfalls. These limestone waterfalls and pools will provide a refreshing break from the mundane of city life. The park’s rock terrain is equally appealing and adrenaline-driving. The best part is that they have 80+ campsites and a few renovated cabins if you want to spend the weekend camping.
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3. Turkey Creek Trail
This dog-friendly, tree-shaded trail in Emma Long Metropolitan Park, is a great place to start exploring before working your way up to some longer, more strenuous routes. The trail is moderately strenuous and difficult owing to the roots and rocks which are often slippery. The 3-mile hike is short, sweet, and filled with stunning scenery. The path crosses over the creek bed multiple times so bring water shoes during the rainy months, and be careful when kids are tagging along.
4. Homestead Trail Loop
A gorgeous trail loop awaits you at the Homestead Trail Loop. A 3.4-mile intermediate trail will lead you through the leafy oak trees and juniper groves. You can stop for a swim or fishing or meditate on the sounds of flowing water. It is also a favorite among campers and has nearly 81 campsites and rentable cabins. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on leash and not allowed in water, so bring your furry friends to this corner of a haven.
read also: Weekend Getaways From Austin
5. Mount Bonnell Trail
You will love this trek through the bougie, well-manicured residential neighborhood. Mount Bonnell is known for its scenic summit views and sweeping views of the quite handsome Lake Austin. That is, once you climb the limestone-paved staircases shaded by trees. If you don’t want to climb the strenuous natural stairs (over 100 of them), there is an easier grovel route to the top for those who want to enjoy the views regardless.
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6. St. Edwards Park
Not quite as well-known as the other trails, St. Edwards Park is catching up to others. This hidden gem is located in northwest Austin and is a great alternative to crowded parks. It is packed with trails, small waterfalls, and ponds all cozily tucked into 80 acres of lush woodlands. Engulfed by cacti as gorgeous carpets of wildflowers roll out across the park’s plain in springtime, scenic is not enough to describe the place. Two trails provide unique experiences as you stroll past the flora and fauna, or climb limestone buffs with a steep ascent, so choose one or hike through both to enjoy superb views down the twisting creek and for miles beyond.
7. Barton Creek Greenbelt
Imagine being able to party (albeit responsibly) in the lush nature surrounded by trees, cacti, and wildflowers. Again, as long as you are careful and responsible for your surroundings. Barton Creek Greenbelt used to be a hidden gem and now is another staple for the locals besides being one of the top-rated hikes in Texas. You can hike, bike, climb, swim, kayak, and float among all the fun activities you can indulge in. The badass scenery speaks for itself and offers a bit of everything for everyone. A short hike along the Hill of Life, or a dip in the natural limestone pools of Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls will help you disconnect from a busy day.
8. River Place Nature Trail
One of the most challenging trails in Austin, so you might have to gear up accordingly. It includes multiple creek crossings and waterfalls, especially in the Little Fern Trail section. Get ready to sweat as you cross the 5-6 miles of Hill Country Woods famous for their stretches of inclines and stairs that will sunburn you if you don’t carry sunscreen. On the other hand, you won’t get a better workout in a more scenic spot than this so make the most out of it. The plus side is that you can bring along your furry friends for moral support.
9. Walnut Creek Trail
Home to around 20 miles of paved urban trails that transport you from the city’s bustle to a shady oasis in the middle of it. Walnut Creek Trail is up to 15 miles with options for shorter routes as it has multiple access points. This trail is perfect for those who want a long trek but want to be close to nature within the city limits. It will satisfy your natural cravings as you walk through the beautiful foliage and have some wildlife encounters. It might feel remote owing to deep ravines, creek beds, and tons of wild birds but you can bring your furry friend along for company.
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10. Mayfield Natural Preserve
If you want to get lost in an island of restful respite in the middle of Austin, choose Mayfield Natural Preserve. You can stay for a bit or an entire afternoon after a hike of under a mile. It’s an easy exercise for anyone who wants to learn about history in natural surroundings. There is a historic cottage with lush gardens complete with water lilies. You will get to know the park’s resident peacocks. An intimate wedding or a get-together will be amazing in this idyllic setting so contact the admin to book.
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11. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Welcome to one of the city’s largest and most popular parks along the shores of Lake Austin. It covers 1140 acres and features multiple hiking trails, picnic spots, barbecue pits, and open grassy spaces for fun outdoorsy games. You can relax and watch the boats go by, jump into the river with a rope swing, or soak up the sun. You can even go for a guided bird tour where you would see an impressive number of butterflies in the gorgeous wildflowers when in full bloom.
read also: Romantic Getaways in Austin Texas
12. Violet Crown Trail
A vision that, upon completion, will be a 30-mile trail becoming the first regional trail system in Central Texas. It has taken nearly 15 years of planning and development that the first six-mile segment is open and Violet Crown Trail is on its way to becoming the longest trail. The trail is supposed to wind through Barton Creek Wilderness Park, Sunset Valley, the City of Austin Water Quality Protection Lands, and into Hays County. Set out to become the longest trail, it is great for families as there are multiple access points and trailheads.
Conclusion
Austin is the city with the highest ranking for outdoor fun in all of Texas. You can stroll through the festivals on Zilker Park, enjoy romantic picnics along Ladybird Lake, or go ziplining over Lake Austin. Well-known for its restaurants and nightlife, you will find the proximity of nature to the city delightful. Go for a hike with plenty of water and sunscreen as summers can get brutal with soaring temperatures.
