8 Best Hiking Trails in Austin

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, great food, and stunning natural beauty. While the city boasts an exciting urban lifestyle, it is also home to some of the best hiking trails in Texas. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a casual walker wanting to take in scenic views, Austin has something for everyone.

From lakeside paths and forested trails to rugged limestone cliffs and peaceful waterfalls, hiking in Austin is an adventure waiting to be explored. In this guide, we’ll dive into the 8 best hiking trails in Austin, providing details on their highlights, difficulty levels, and why they should be on your must-visit list.

1- Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Downtown Austin views, scenic lake, shaded paths

If you’re looking for a picturesque trail that perfectly combines urban charm with natural beauty, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is the perfect choice. This 10-mile loop encircles Lady Bird Lake, offering stunning views of downtown Austin, tree-lined pathways, and plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.

One of the best things about this trail is its accessibility. There are multiple entry points, allowing you to start from different locations and customize the length of your hike. The well-maintained path is mostly flat, making it ideal for casual walkers, runners, and cyclists.

For an extra special experience, visit the trail at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the city skyline.

2. Barton Creek Greenbelt

Distance: 12 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Swimming holes, limestone cliffs, waterfalls

Often referred to as the “jewel in the heart of Austin,” the Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of the city’s most beloved outdoor destinations. Spanning 12 miles, the trail winds through a lush green corridor, featuring limestone cliffs, wooded areas, and refreshing swimming holes.

The Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls areas are particularly popular, especially during warm weather when hikers can take a dip in the cool, clear waters. The terrain varies from flat and shaded to rocky and uneven, making it a fun and slightly challenging hike.

If you’re up for an adventure, bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing swim along the way.

3. Mount Bonnell (Covert Park)

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Panoramic views, short hike, historic site

For one of the best panoramic views in Austin, head to Mount Bonnell at Covert Park. Standing at 775 feet, this is one of the highest points in the city and a great spot to watch the sunset.

The trail itself is short but includes a steep staircase that leads to the summit. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Colorado River, the Austin skyline, and the surrounding hills.

This is an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a quick but rewarding outdoor experience.

4. River Place Nature Trail

Distance: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard

Highlights: Staircases, dense forest, creek crossings

If you’re up for a challenge, the River Place Nature Trail is one of Austin’s most rigorous hikes. This 5.5-mile out-and-back trail is known for its steep inclines and numerous staircases, providing an intense lower-body workout.

The trail winds through dense forests, crossing over creeks and offering beautiful views of nature. Because of its difficulty level, this hike is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of a workout while exploring the outdoors.

Make sure to bring plenty of water, as the steep climbs can be quite demanding, especially in hot weather.

5. Turkey Creek Trail

Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Off-leash dog trail, shaded paths, creek crossings

Dog lovers will appreciate the Turkey Creek Trail, located within Emma Long Metropolitan Park. This 2.8-mile trail is unique because it allows dogs to roam off-leash, making it a favorite among pet owners.

The trail crosses Turkey Creek multiple times, so be prepared for some water crossings. The shaded canopy and gentle elevation changes make it a pleasant hike, especially during the summer months.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and dog-friendly hike, Turkey Creek is a great option, making it one of the best hiking trails in Austin.

6. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Waterfalls, birdwatching, protected nature preserve

For those who love nature and wildlife, the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is a must-visit. This 2.5-mile network of trails takes you through a protected area that is home to diverse plant life and local wildlife.

The preserve is known for its small waterfalls, beautiful oak and juniper trees, and peaceful atmosphere. Since it’s a protected area, dogs and bicycles are not allowed, ensuring a serene hiking experience.

This is a fantastic place to slow down, take in the sights, and enjoy the beauty of Austin’s natural landscape.

7. McKinney Falls State Park

Distance: Varies (up to 9 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Highlights: Waterfalls, swimming, ancient rock formations

Located just 13 miles from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park offers some of the best hiking in the area. The park features several trails, including the Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail (2.8 miles) and the Homestead Trail (3.1 miles), both of which offer scenic views and easy terrain.

One of the park’s highlights is Upper and Lower McKinney Falls, where visitors can swim, fish, or simply relax by the water. The park is also home to historic ruins and unique rock formations that make for an interesting hike.

Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a full day of outdoor exploration, McKinney Falls is a great destination.

8. St. Edwards Park

Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: River views, wildflowers, shaded trails

St. Edwards Park is a hidden gem on the northwestern edge of Austin. This 3.2-mile trail offers a mix of terrain, from wooded areas to open grasslands, with plenty of opportunities to see wildflowers and wildlife.

The highlight of the park is Bull Creek, which runs alongside the trail and provides a refreshing place to cool off. With fewer crowds compared to other Austin trails, St. Edwards Park is perfect for those seeking a quieter hiking experience.

Tips for Hiking in Austin

1. Stay Hydrated

Austin’s heat can be intense, especially in the summer. Always carry plenty of water, even for shorter hikes. Check out this LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness on Amazon.

2. Wear Proper Footwear

Some trails have rocky and uneven terrain, so wearing good hiking shoes will help prevent slips and injuries. Check out these Men’s Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots on Amazon

3. Check Trail Conditions

After heavy rains, some trails—especially those along creeks—may be closed due to flooding. Check for updates before heading out.

4. Be Respectful of Nature

Stick to marked trails, carry out all trash, and respect wildlife to help preserve Austin’s beautiful hiking areas.

Austin is a hiker’s paradise, offering a mix of scenic, challenging, and leisurely trails that cater to all experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll along Lady Bird Lake or a rugged adventure in the Greenbelt, there’s a trail for you.

So, grab your hiking boots, pack some water, and explore the natural beauty that makes Austin such a special place. Happy hiking!