Best Backpacking Destinations in Austin, Texas, United States

Austin, United States, Austin, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Backpacking Destinations

Best Backpacking Destinations in Austin, Texas, United States

1. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail

A scenic urban trail for hiking and biking alongside Lady Bird Lake, offering great views of downtown Austin.
  • Urban Scenery: Enjoy the unique blend of nature and city life.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to public transportation and amenities along the trail.
  • Versatility: Offers opportunities for various activities, such as jogging, picnicking, or birdwatching.

2. Barton Creek Greenbelt

A natural escape in the heart of Austin with hiking trails, swimming holes, and wildlife sightings.
  • Natural Beauty: Experience the serene beauty of Texas hill country.
  • Swimming Opportunities: Discover refreshing swimming holes along the trail.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Chance to spot armadillos, raccoons, and various bird species.

3. McKinney Falls State Park

A park with hiking trails, waterfalls, camping sites, and historical attractions.
  • Waterfall Sights: Two picturesque waterfalls provide great photo opportunities.
  • Historical Significance: Explore the remains of a 19th-century homestead and gristmill.
  • Camping Availability: Overnight camping sites are available for backpackers.

4. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

A nature preserve with hiking trails that lead to multiple scenic vistas and waterfalls.
  • Scenic Vistas: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the hill country.
  • Waterfall Sights: Discover various cascading waterfalls along the trail.
  • Preserved Ecosystems: Learn about diverse ecosystems and wildlife species in the preserve.

5. Palm Valley Trail System

A network of trails offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Versatility: Accommodates different outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Scenic Vistas: Offers stunning views of the Texas hill country landscape.
  • Remote Wilderness Feel: Experience a sense of isolation and connection with nature.

6. St. Edwards Park

A park featuring hiking trails, canoe rentals, fishing spots, and scenic views.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy canoeing or fishing on the beautiful Colorado River.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in the stunning views of the Colorado River and surrounding hills.
  • Natural Beauty: Experience the peace and tranquility of nature.

7. Bull Creek District Park

A park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife sightings alongside Bull Creek.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Chance to spot beavers, raccoons, and a variety of bird species.
  • Relaxing Environment: Enjoy peaceful surroundings perfect for picnicking or reading a book.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to the park from central Austin.

8. Greens Creek Trail

A trail offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the scenic Texas hill country.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in breathtaking views of the hill country landscape.
  • Versatility: Accommodates various outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Remote Wilderness Feel: Experience a sense of isolation and connection with nature.

9. Baker's Crossing Trailhead

A trailhead leading to the scenic Colorado River for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or fishing on the beautiful Colorado River.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to the trailhead from central Austin.

10. Bee Creek Trail System

A network of trails offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the scenic Texas hill country.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in breathtaking views of the hill country landscape.
  • Versatility: Accommodates different outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Remote Wilderness Feel: Experience a sense of isolation and connection with nature.

11. Bear Creek Trail

A scenic trail offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the Texas hill country.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in breathtaking views of the hill country landscape.
  • Versatility: Accommodates different outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Remote Wilderness Feel: Experience a sense of isolation and connection with nature.

12. Rocky Creek Trail

A scenic trail offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the Texas hill country.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in breathtaking views of the hill country landscape.
  • Versatility: Accommodates different outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Remote Wilderness Feel: Experience a sense of isolation and connection with nature.

13. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park

A park featuring hiking trails, disc golf courses, and scenic views alongside Walnut Creek.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in beautiful views of the creek and surrounding hills.
  • Versatility: Offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, disc golf, or picnicking.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to the park from central Austin.

14. Walnut Springs Metropolitan Park

A park featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic views alongside Walnut Creek.
  • Scenic Vistas: Take in beautiful views of the creek and surrounding hills.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy fishing or canoeing on Walnut Creek.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to the park from central Austin.

15. Great Hills Park

A park featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of downtown Austin.
  • Urban Scenery: Enjoy the unique blend of nature and city life.
  • Relaxing Environment: Enjoy peaceful surroundings perfect for picnicking or reading a book.
  • Accessibility: Easy access to the park from central Austin.