Austin is a city full of amazing trails and parks located throughout the city, with miles of trails and plenty of hikes to choose from there is sure to be a beautiful trail for your skill level. We have put together a list of our top 10 hiking trails surrounding the great city. From paths that take you through the heart of Austin to less-traveled ones that make you feel you have traveled to another country, we are sure you will not be disappointed with this list.
Bull Creek Greenbelt
Location: 7806 N Capital Of Texas Hwy Austin, TX 78731
This family-friendly trail is located in Northwest Austin. It offers hiking, mountain biking, and occasional swimming holes along the way, depending on the season. This trail runs along 360 and does offer parking in a few areas along the way. Get your hiking shoes on and get ready to do some wildlife watching, and if you’re lucky, take a dip in the creek.
www.austinparks.org/bull-creek
McKinney Falls State Park
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy Austin, TX 78744
The fantastic state park is located in southeast Austin and offers trails for all level hikers. It has a few falls and a large swimming hole that locals enjoy visiting during the summer months, so be prepared for a lot of foot traffic. Trails take you through the Hill Country woods so you might see an occasional snake.
www.tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls
Great Hills Park
Location: 10801 Sierra Oaks Austin, TX 78759
Great Hills Park Trail is located in North Austin along 183. It is excellent for all level hikers or runners. Part of the trail is along a small river and offers a lot of shade. This trail is a little over 2 miles once you make the full loop. It can get a bit muddy after a good rainstorm, so just be prepared.
www.austinparks.org/great-hills-park
River Place Nature Trail
Location: 8820 Big View Dr Austin, TX 78730
River Place Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile trail located in west Austin and is said to be on the more difficult side. You’ll find a pretty cool waterfall along the trail and the right amount of shade.
www.hikingproject.com/trail/7023174/river-place-nature-trail
Blunn Creek Preserve
Location: 1200 St Edwards Dr Austin, TX 78704
This fantastic trail is located in South Austin across the street from St. Edwards University. You’ll find a creek, some amazing overlooks, dense trees that offer great shade at this well-maintained trail. There are some rocky and steep parts, so be cautious of the changing terrain. The great thing about this trail is that it is less traveled, so it makes you feel like you have stepped into another world.
www.austinparks.org/blunn-creek-preserve
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Location: 3755-B Capital of Texas Hwy Austin, TX 78704
This gorgeous trail is located in south-central Austin and has 12.68 miles of trails. The trail has multiple entrance points along south Austin. There is more to do along this trail than just hiking like; swimming, rock climbing, mountain biking, and bird watching. This trail is a top pick for most Austin-nights and can get a bit crowded.
www.austinparks.org/barton-creek-greenbelt
Turkey Creek Trail
Location: 1401-1711 City Park Rd Austin, TX 78730
Turkey Creek Trail is an easy 3-mile loop trail located in central Austin with a lot of shade from the trees along the trail. Depending on the season, the creek will be full, and there are areas where you might get your feet wet, so it’s advised to wear shoes you won’t mind getting wet.
www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/turkey-creek-trail
Mary Moore Searight Park
Location: 907 W Slaughter Ln Austin, TX 78748
You’ll find this south Austin trail nestled in a residential area. It is a large loop trail that is heavily trafficked along a park with a lovely river that runs along part of it. Don’t be surprised if you see a horse on your hike because this park also allows horseback riding, disc golf, and other activities.
www.austinparks.org/mary-moore-searight-metro-park/
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Location: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd Austin, TX 78741
You can’t get more Austin then walking or hiking along the Ann and Roy Butler trail, which takes you on a trip around Lady Bird Lake. It is in the heart of Austin and has multiple entrance points. There are dirt paths, paved walkways, bridges and a boardwalk that will talk you over the lake. The view of the city makes this a trail you don’t want to skip over.
www.austintexas.gov/department/ann-and-roy-butler-hike-and-bike-trail-and-boardwalk-lady-bird-lake
Slaughter Creek Trail
Location: 9901 Farm to Market Rd 1826 Austin, TX 78737
Slaughter Creek Trail is located in southwest Austin off Slaughter lane. It is a 5-mile loop trail that is great for hiking, mountain biking, jogging, and even horseback riding. It’s a beautiful wildflower trail that is great for all level hikers.
www.austinparks.org/slaughter-creek-trail
Take the time to explore these great trails and enjoy what lies just a short drive within the fantastic city you live in.
