best hiking near austin

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Austin boasts an abundance of scenic hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. From leisurely strolls along the Barton Creek Greenbelt to challenging ascents in McKinney Falls State Park, there’s a trail for every hiker to explore. Whether you’re seeking a serene escape or an adrenaline-pumping workout, Austin’s hiking trails offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Barton Creek Greenbelt

Nestled in the heart of Austin, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a beloved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. Spanning over 12 miles along the scenic Barton Creek, the Greenbelt offers a diverse range of trails suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a trail here to match your stride.

For a gentle introduction to the Greenbelt, embark on the 3.5-mile Loop Trail, which meanders alongside the creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding Hill Country. If you’re up for a more strenuous adventure, tackle the 7-mile Barton Creek Trail, which climbs to the top of the Barton Creek Bluffs and rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Austin skyline. Along the way, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife.

One of the highlights of the Barton Creek Greenbelt is the Sculpture Falls Trail, a short but enchanting loop that leads to a hidden waterfall adorned with whimsical sculptures. It’s a perfect spot to relax, soak in the beauty, and capture some Instagram-worthy shots.

With its easy access, stunning scenery, and varied terrain, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is an ideal destination for hikers of all ages and abilities. So lace up your boots and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of this Austin gem.

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and venture into the tranquil embrace of Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, a 227-acre oasis just minutes from downtown Austin. This hidden gem boasts a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, from lush canyons to rolling hills.

Embark on the easy 0.5-mile Family Trail, a paved loop perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride with the kids. For a more challenging hike, tackle the 2.5-mile Spicewood Springs Trail, which leads to a cascading waterfall and offers stunning views of the surrounding Hill Country. If you’re up for an adventure, conquer the strenuous 5-mile Bee Cave Trail, which climbs to the highest point in the preserve and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls Wild Basin home. You might spot white-tailed deer, armadillos, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. The preserve is also home to a variety of plant life, including wildflowers, cacti, and towering cypress trees.

Whether you’re seeking a serene escape, a challenging workout, or an opportunity to connect with nature, Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers a perfect blend of beauty and adventure. So pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, and immerse yourself in the unspoiled wilderness just outside the city limits.

Bull Creek District Park

Nestled in the heart of Austin’s vibrant Zilker neighborhood, Bull Creek District Park is a 300-acre sanctuary that offers a diverse range of hiking trails for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

For a leisurely stroll or a family-friendly hike, embark on the 1.5-mile Bluebonnet Trail, which winds through a scenic meadow and offers glimpses of the park’s namesake creek. If you’re seeking a more challenging adventure, tackle the 3-mile Redbud Trail, which climbs to the highest point in the park and rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country. For an extended hike, connect the Bluebonnet and Redbud Trails via the 0.5-mile Greenbelt Trail, creating a scenic 5-mile loop.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal life. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, armadillos, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. The park is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and black-eyed Susans.

In addition to hiking, Bull Creek District Park offers a range of other recreational opportunities, including picnicking, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Bull Creek. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an active adventure, Bull Creek District Park has something for everyone.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at Emma Long Metropolitan Park, a sprawling 1,344-acre oasis located just 15 miles northwest of downtown Austin. This park offers a diverse range of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from leisurely strolls to challenging hill climbs.

For a gentle introduction to the park’s natural beauty, embark on the 1.5-mile Onion Creek Trail, which follows the banks of Onion Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding Hill Country. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, tackle the 3-mile Spicewood Springs Trail, which climbs to the highest point in the park and rewards you with panoramic vistas. For an extended adventure, connect the Onion Creek and Spicewood Springs Trails via the 0.5-mile Vista Loop Trail, creating a scenic 5-mile loop.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal life. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, armadillos, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. The park is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and black-eyed Susans.

In addition to hiking, Emma Long Metropolitan Park offers a range of other recreational opportunities, including picnicking, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Onion Creek. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an active adventure, Emma Long Metropolitan Park has something for everyone.

McKinney Falls State Park

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, McKinney Falls State Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. From easy, family-friendly paths to challenging ascents with breathtaking views, there’s a trail for every hiker to explore.

For a leisurely stroll, embark on the 1.5-mile Onion Creek Trail, which follows the banks of Onion Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding Hill Country. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, tackle the 3-mile Spicewood Springs Trail, which climbs to the highest point in the park and rewards you with panoramic vistas. For an extended adventure, connect the Onion Creek and Spicewood Springs Trails via the 0.5-mile Vista Loop Trail, creating a scenic 5-mile loop.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal life. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, armadillos, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. The park is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and black-eyed Susans.

In addition to hiking, McKinney Falls State Park offers a range of other recreational opportunities, including picnicking, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Onion Creek. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an active adventure, McKinney Falls State Park has something for everyone.