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.