Best Places to hike in Austin
If you love spending time outdoors and getting exercise, then hiking in Austin is the perfect activity for you. The city is home to various hiking trails that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging workout or a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for you in Austin. Plus, these trails offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding hill country. So strap on your hiking boots and explore all that Austin offers on one of its many hiking trails.

This guide will acquaint you with some of Austin’s most picturesque hiking trails.
Hiking Trails in Austin
Barton Creek Greenbelt – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 13.8 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-6700
No matter what time of year, hiking is always an excellent option for fresh air and exercise. There’s no better place to go hiking than the Barton Creek Greenbelt. The Greenbelt is a long stretch of land with seven access points, offering something for everyone. There are challenging half-mile elevations, limestone climbing walls, swimming holes, and even access for mountain bikers. Plus, the friendly culture here means that everybody stops to say hello.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Austin, add the Barton Creek Greenbelt to your list of must-see places. You won’t be disappointed.
Mount Bonnell – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 0.5 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Drive, Austin, TX, 78731
Phone/Contact Information: (512) 974-6700
Hiking on Mount Bonnell is a great way to experience the beauty of Austin. It’s a quick hike and will only take about 10 minutes, but it is pretty strenuous. The 40-foot elevation gain and the long stretch of stairs may seem intimidating, but it’s over before you know it. The view from the top is worth the effort, with a beautiful panoramic scene of Austin and the surrounding hill country. Mount Bonnell is also a great place to watch the sunset or view the city lights at night. The area is only partially shaded, depending on the time of day, so make sure you bring water along with you in the heat of the day.
If you want to see the views but don’t want to make the hike, you can also drive up the steeply winding road. However you choose to enjoy the scenery, just remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 2 miles
Cost: $12/Adult, $10/Seniors, $8/College Students with ID, $6/Youth
Location: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
Phone/Contact Information: 512-232-0100
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a great place to take a hike while enjoying the beauty of nature. The center is named after its co-founder, Claudia Alta Taylor “Lady Bird” Johnson, who was the wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson.
The former first lady co-founded the center to educate fellow botanists about the benefits of planting and nurturing certain types of plants. This project has revolutionized gardening habits in central Texas.
The hiking trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is two miles long and includes several different types of terrain. There are also several other gardens that you can explore along the way, including a butterfly garden and a hummingbird garden.

Bull Creek Greenbelt – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 4.5 Miles
Cost: Free
Location: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
Phone/Contact Information: 512-477-1566
If you’re looking for an adventurous day trip with your friends or family, look no further than Bull Creek Greenbelt.
This lush green forest has plenty of swimming opportunities, making it the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. The area is also an unofficial dog park, so don’t forget to bring your furry friend along for the fun. If you’re feeling really adventurous, take the upper trail for even more breathtaking views.
There are so many activity options to choose from, so take a full day and do as many as you can! Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a memorable day at Bull Creek Greenbelt.
Turkey Creek Trail – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 2.8 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 1401-1711 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730
Phone/Contact Information: (512) 346-1831
Turkey Creek Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Austin. The trail is 2.8 miles long and offers lovely views of the cityscape and surrounding hills. There are plenty of activities along the way, including picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your pets along for the adventure.
If you’re looking for a challenge, there is an uphill climb near the beginning of the trail. But don’t worry. It’s worth it when you reach the top and see the stunning views of downtown Austin.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, Turkey Creek Trail is a must-do activity in Austin. So grab your hiking shoes and water bottle, and head to City Park for an unforgettable experience.
Twin Falls via Barton Creek Greenbelt – Hiking in Austin
Length of trail: 3.2 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 3918 S MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78746
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-6700
Another great place to hike near Austin is the Twin Falls hiking trail. This beautiful trail winds through the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. There are several different trails you can take depending on your fitness level and how long you want to hike, so there’s something for everyone. If you get tired of hiking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area, including swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 3.1 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-1831
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is the perfect spot for a nature lover or adventurer. This park is a must-visit with miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
The Emma Long Metropolitan Park hiking trails wind through some of the most beautiful scenery in Austin. You’ll see towering oak trees, native grasses, and wildflowers blooming throughout the year. With over 3.1 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll find it at Emma Long Metropolitan Park.
Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park on Slaughter Creek – Hiking in Austin
Length of trail: 3.6 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 6301 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78739
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-6700
Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park is a beautiful 3.6-mile hiking trail that winds through scenic woodlands and offers plenty of opportunities for exploring, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an excellent place for families with young children. With stunning views of the surrounding hills, it’s also a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park is a must-do activity in Austin. Grab your hiking shoes and water bottle, and head to Slaughter Creek for an unforgettable experience.
Brushy Creek Regional Trail and Greenbelt – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 10.4 miles
Cost: Free
Location: Brushy Creek Regional Trail, Austin, TX 78717
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-401-5000
The Brushy Creek Regional Trail is a 10.4-mile hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. The trail winds through woodlands and meadows, and there are plenty of opportunities for picnicking, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an excellent place for families with young children. With stunning views of the surrounding hills, it’s also a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Its well-paved trails and decent length make it perfect for bikers as well!
Cedar Breaks Park – Hiking Near Austin
Length of trail: 7.6 miles
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Location: 2100 Cedar Breaks Rd, Georgetown, TX 78633
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-930-5253
Cedar Breaks Park is another beautiful place to hike near Austin. With an Oak/Ash Juniper forest that offers stunning wildflower displays in spring, it’s no wonder why this park is so popular.
It also has excellent camping facilities, day-use facilities, a boat ramp, and Goodwater Loop Hiking Trail access. There are 60 RV campsites available with 20/30/50-amp electrical service, water accessibility, and proximity to a centrally located dump station.
Best of all? Online reservations for the campground will be open year-round!
Richard Moya Park and Moore’s Crossing Bridge Hiking Trail – Hiking Near Austin

Length of trail: 1.45 miles
Cost: Free
Location: Moores Bridge Rd, Del Valle, TX 78617
Phone/Contact Information: N/A
This beautiful hiking trail is located in the Moores Crossing Bridge area and offers stunning views of the Colorado River. This is an ideal spot for a family hike with young kids, with easy-to-follow trails and clear signage.
Just a few minutes from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, this park and trail are centrally located and easy to get to. You’ll have access to playscapes, a basketball court, and baseball fields as well, so groups of all ages can enjoy the area.
Its proximity to Austin makes it the perfect spot for a quick nature fix.

Anna and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail and Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 10 miles
Cost: Free
Location: First Street Bridge at Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701
Phone/Contact Information: (512) 974-6700
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail are one of Austin’s most beloved recreation areas. The 10-mile loop winds around Lady Bird Lake in the heart of downtown Austin, offering stunning skyline views and beautiful scenery.
The trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, an invigorating run, or a leisurely bike ride. And best of all, it’s free to enjoy!
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail are perfect if you want to stay active while seeing some of Austin’s best sights.
Onion Creek Metropolitan Park Hiking Trails – Hiking in Austin
Length of trail: 3.6 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 8652 Nuckols Crossing Rd, Austin, TX 78744
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-2000
Onion Creek Metropolitan Park is a beautiful place to hike year-round. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The park is also famous for horseback riding and running.
However, you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. Admission to the park is free, making it an excellent option for budget-minded travelers.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or a visitor seeking an outdoor adventure, Onion Creek Metropolitan Park is worth a visit.
Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park – Hiking in Austin
Length of trail: 4.1 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 400 Grove Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-974-6700
Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park is a great place to hike, bike, picnic, and relax.
The park features play equipment, a disc golf course, and a trail leading to the Colorado River. The 4.1-mile path is perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. Best of all, it’s free to enjoy!
Whether you’re a local person wanting to get some exercise or a tourist looking for somewhere to stretch your legs, Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park is sure to make you happy.
McKinney Falls State Park – Hiking in Austin

Length of trail: 8.25 Miles
Cost: $6 per day per person 13 years old and older.
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Phone/Contact Information: +1 512-243-1643
The 726-acre McKinney Falls State Park is located on Onion Creek in southeast Austin. The park offers hikers, campers, and picnickers a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
The park features two waterfalls, among the most impressive in the Austin area. Upper McKinney Falls is molded much like Sculpture Falls on Barton Creek, but on a larger scale. The falls plunge over limestone ledges into pools of cool, clear water that are perfect for swimming on hot summer days.
In addition to the beautiful scenery, McKinney Falls State Park is also home to various plant and animal life. More than 170 species have been sighted in the park, including herons, egrets, ibises, ducks, geese, hawks, woodpeckers, and warblers. The park is also home to white-tailed deer, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, armadillos, and coyotes.
McKinney Falls State Park has something for everyone, whether you’re searching for a challenging trek or simply want to unwind and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Recap: Hiking in Austin
As you can see, there are plenty of great places for hiking near Austin, each offering its own unique scenery and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, you’re sure to find a trail perfect for you. So get out there and explore all that Austin has to offer!