Austin is celebrated for its vibrant music culture and dynamic food scene, but for those with a love of the great outdoors, the city has even more to offer. From its scenic hiking trails and serene lakes to its lush parks and lively biking routes, the outdoor activities around Austin are endless.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for a peaceful retreat, this guide reveals the top spots for embracing Austin’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit.
Hiking Trails Near Austin
Austin’s hiking trails promise unforgettable experiences, each offering unique landscapes and views. One of the top local favorites is Barton Creek Greenbelt, which features shaded paths, swimming holes, and impressive limestone cliffs, perfect for hikers of all levels.
Don't miss the popular Sculpture Falls, a great spot to cool off. Not far away, Mount Bonnell stands as a historic landmark, rewarding hikers with sweeping vistas of the Colorado River and downtown skyline. McKinney Falls State Park combines a rich history with scenic trails that lead to captivating falls and ancient rock formations.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Known for its 12-mile stretch of trails and lush surroundings, Barton Creek Greenbelt is perfect for those looking to escape the bustle of the city. With its limestone cliffs and tranquil swimming spots like Sculpture Falls, it offers a scenic retreat for hikers and outdoor lovers.
Mount Bonnell
This historic site offers one of Austin’s most famous panoramic views. A relatively short climb rewards visitors with breathtaking sights of Lake Austin and the cityscape, making it a popular destination for sunset viewing.
McKinney Falls State Park
A nature lover’s haven, the park is home to trails of varying difficulty levels and two picturesque waterfalls, Upper and Lower Falls. The trails weave through ancient limestone formations and lush forests, creating a memorable hiking experience.
St. Edwards Park
St. Edwards Park features trails with moderate elevation changes, scenic creek crossings, and a hidden waterfall. It’s a great destination for those seeking a more secluded hiking experience, with the reward of a peaceful creekside setting.
Water Adventures and Lakeside Escapes
Austin’s lakes are the perfect getaway for water enthusiasts. Lady Bird Lake, located in the heart of the city, is a go-to spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Its calm waters and scenic surroundings make it ideal for relaxing paddles or workouts. Just outside the city, Lake Travis is famous for its clear blue waters and a variety of activities, from boating and jet-skiing to zip-lining.
Kayaking at Lady Bird Lake
Kayakers can enjoy a gentle paddle along the calm waters with the city’s skyline as a backdrop. Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, offering an urban adventure that stays close to nature.
Lake Travis
Known for its pristine waters and expansive views, Lake Travis is a hotspot for water sports like wakeboarding, boating, and jet-skiing. Nearby zip-lining tours add a touch of adrenaline to your lakeside experience. Learn more about things to do in our Lake Travis living guide.
Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
SUP is a must-try Austin activity, especially on Lady Bird Lake. It’s a fun way to explore the lake, get a full-body workout, and soak in the stunning cityscape.
Barton Springs Pool
This iconic pool in Zilker Park offers a unique swimming experience, fed by natural underground springs that keep the water at a refreshing 68 degrees year-round. It’s a favorite spot for locals to beat the heat or relax on the surrounding grassy banks.
Exploring Austin’s Parks
Austin’s parks are more than just green spaces—they’re community hubs where locals gather to enjoy picnics, sports, and events. Zilker Park stands as Austin’s crown jewel, known for hosting festivals like the Austin City Limits Music Festival and home to the Barton Springs Pool.
Another favorite, Auditorium Shores, offers picturesque views of Lady Bird Lake and serves as a popular spot for events and concerts. If you're up for a camping trip or off-road biking, Emma Long Metropolitan Park provides sandy beaches, lakeside campsites, and an extensive trail network.
Zilker Park
Spanning over 350 acres, Zilker Park is the epicenter of Austin’s outdoor culture. It’s home to the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool, botanical gardens, and trails, and serves as the venue for major events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
Auditorium Shores
With open lawns and stunning views of the downtown skyline, Auditorium Shores is a hotspot for outdoor concerts, yoga classes, and weekend events. It’s a great place to relax by the lake or attend a community event.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
A spacious park with lakeside campsites, sandy beaches, and miles of trails, Emma Long is perfect for those seeking a weekend adventure. The park’s bike trails and scenic picnic areas make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
A serene park featuring lush gardens, tranquil walking paths, and a historic cottage, Mayfield Park is best known for its peacocks that roam freely. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a quiet walk or have a picnic surrounded by nature.
Outdoor Sports and Biking Trails
Austin’s active lifestyle is reflected in its extensive biking trails and sports venues. For mountain bikers, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is a dream destination with over 15 miles of diverse trails. The Veloway is a 3.1-mile track exclusive to cyclists and skaters, offering a smooth and scenic ride.
For a more urban experience, the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail loops around the lake, providing beautiful views of the city’s skyline.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
A top choice for mountain biking, this park features a variety of trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Its scenic creek crossings and shaded paths make it a great spot for all-day biking adventures.
Veloway
An exclusive trail dedicated to cyclists and skaters, the Veloway offers a 3.1-mile loop that’s perfect for safe, high-speed biking without worrying about vehicular traffic. The winding path through lush greenery adds to the experience.
Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail
This 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake is ideal for jogging, biking, or walking. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering views of the downtown skyline, waterfront, and vibrant wildlife.
Shoal Creek Trail
Shoal Creek Trail provides over 10 miles of paths that wind through scenic stretches of green spaces and historic landmarks. The trail connects key parts of Austin, making it a perfect choice for exploring the city on two wheels.
Austin's Outdoor Lifestyle
Austin’s outdoor scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. From exploring scenic hiking trails and paddleboarding on serene lakes to enjoying a picnic in a city park or riding along a dedicated bike trail, there’s an adventure waiting for every type of outdoor enthusiast. It’s this blend of nature, community spirit, and lively events that makes Austin so special.
If you’re considering making Austin your home, or if you’re ready to dive into the market, reach out to our team at Spyglass Realty. We’ll help you find the perfect home that lets you embrace Austin’s outdoor lifestyle to the fullest.
Posted by Ryan Rodenbeck on
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