There's no better way to soak in the sun and get a little activity into your day than by hitting the trails around Austin. Scenic overlooks, easy climbs, and longer treks dot the outlying areas of the city and extend in every direction, offering an outdoor experience fit for every skill level. Pack up the car and strap on your hiking shoes – These day hikes and camping sites are ideal for getting out of the city and exploring Texas' native landscape.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
3918 S Mopac Expy (South) | Easy to Difficult | 7mi | Website
What to Expect: Several access points, unofficial unpaved trails, small rapids and falls, and rock climbing.
Bull Creek District Park
6701 Lakewood Dr (North) | Moderate
What to Expect: Springs and waterways, scenic cliffs, waterfalls, and archaeological features.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
12138 N Lamar Blvd (North) | Easy to Moderate
What to Expect: Long winding trails, varied terrain, sports centers, picnic areas, and a swimming pool nearby.
River Place Nature Trail
8830 Big View Dr (Northwest) | Moderate to Difficult | 5.5 mi | Website
What to Expect: Boardwalk, rocky stairs, hiking trail, elevation changes, views, trickling streams, wildlife, and rock formations.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
24518 FM 1431 (Northwest) | Easy to Difficult | 7 mi | Website
What to Expect: Rugged terrain, Hill Country landscapes, native wildlife, and great bird watching.
McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Parkway (East) | Easy to Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Multiple trails and watering holes, historic sites, rock climbing, and an entry fee of $6.
Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
3800 Mount Bonnell Rd (West) | Easy | Website
What to Expect: Sweeping views, steep stone stairs, a loose gravel-paved trail, side trails leading down the hill, and a wonderful photo opportunity.
Austin’s 360 Bridge & Overlook
5100 N Capital of Texas Hwy (West) | Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Steep but short hike to the top, views, and a wonderful photo opportunity.
Emma Long Park Turkey Creek Trail
1600 City Park Rd (West) | Moderate | 2.8 mi | Website
What to Expect: Rough terrain, creek access, bike trails, and hilltop views.
Violet Crown Trail
5524 Bee Caves Rd Ste G4 (West) | Easy to Difficult | 6 mi | Website
What to Expect: Dirt trail, Greenbelt access, close proximity to neighborhoods, shopping centers, and schools.
Mayfield Park/Nature Preserve
3505 W 35th St (West) | Easy | 1.5 mi | Website
What to Expect: Leisurely stroll, access to the Colorado River, wildlife, and roaming peacocks near the cottage grounds.
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
805 N Capital of Texas Hwy (West) | Easy | 2.5 mi
What to Expect: Native wildlife, looping paths for a longer hike, a few lookout areas, and suggested donation upon entry.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
24518 FM 1431 (Marble Falls) | Easy to Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Wildlife, walking trails, hills, and peaceful atmosphere.
Canyonlands Trails
115 Trophy Dr (Lakeway) | Difficult | 10mi
What to Expect: Technical trail, climbing, running trail, jeep trail and service road crossings, and high points.
Smith Greenbelt
1102 Lohmans Crossing Rd (Lakeway) | Easy to Moderate | 4.5 acres | Website
What to Expect: Short hiking trail, creek access, and terrain fit for mountain biking.
Pace Bend Park
2805 Pace Bend Rd N (Spicewood) | Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Multi-use trails, views, and an entry fee of $10.
When it comes to exploring Austin and the surrounding areas, a hike is a wonderful way to spend time connecting with the bountiful nature the city has to offer. These hikes are gorgeous year-round, but especially in the spring months with so many flowers and plants in bloom.
