
Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Austin, Texas, United States
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
A scenic trail network offering hiking, biking, and swimming in Austin's urban wilderness.
- Urban Wildlife Spotting: Spot coyotes, raccoons, armadillos, and even the occasional bobcat.
- Multiple Access Points: Various entry points along the 7.8-mile stretch make it easy to explore.
- Year-round Activities: Activities can be enjoyed year-round, with some sections providing a refreshing swim in Barton Creek.
2. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
A popular 10-mile loop trail around Lady Bird Lake with stunning city views and a bat viewing platform.
- Urban Bat Watching: Witness the famous Austin bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge during spring and summer.
- Dog-friendly Trail: This pet-friendly trail allows your furry friend to join you on your adventure.
- Central Location: Ideal starting point for exploring downtown Austin, museums, and other attractions.
3. Baker's Crossing Park
An underrated 2.5-mile loop trail with unique geological features like balancing rocks.
- Geological Wonders: Explore a fascinating collection of rock formations, including balancing rocks and sinkholes.
- Tranquil Setting: Enjoy a peaceful hike away from the city's noise in this lesser-known park.
- Wildflower Viewing: Catch a glimpse of beautiful wildflowers during the spring blooming season.
4. Reimers Ranch Park
A Texas Hill Country park with breathtaking views and over 20 miles of hiking trails.
- Texas Hill Country Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the famous Texas Hill Country landscape.
- Fossil Discoveries: Discover ancient fossils in the park's limestone cliffs and caves.
- Picturesque Picnic Spots: Relax at scenic picnic areas with views of Pedernales River.
5. Hamilton Pool Preserve
A natural pool formed by a collapsed grotto, offering swimming and hiking opportunities.
- Natural Swimming Hole: Swim in the stunning turquoise water of this unique geological formation.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot a variety of wildlife, including armadillos, raccoons, and birds like hawks and herons.
- Limited Access: Advance reservations are required to access this popular attraction.
6. Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park
A large park with various outdoor activities like hiking, disc golf, and fishing.
- Outdoor Activities Galore: Enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities, from hiking to fishing.
- Central Location: Conveniently located within Austin city limits for easy access.
- Picnic and Grill Sites: Reserve a picnic site for a perfect family day out.
7. Bull Creek District Park
A green oasis with hiking trails, swimming areas, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Swimming Areas: Cool off in the creek during hot summer days.
- Bird Watching Paradise: Keep an eye out for more than 160 bird species, including herons and egrets.
- Scenic Hilltop Views: Take in stunning hilltop views of the Austin skyline and surrounding green spaces.
8. Western District Park
A peaceful park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a disc golf course.
- Quiet Natural Retreat: Escape the city noise and find tranquility in this secluded park.
- Disc Golf Course: Enjoy a round of disc golf on the challenging 18-hole course.
- Wildflower Trails: Stroll along beautiful wildflower trails during springtime.
9. St Edward's Park
A small park with hiking trails, a pond, and a scenic overlook.
- Scenic Overlook: Take in breathtaking views of the Austin skyline from the hilltop overlook.
- Peaceful Pond: Relax by the serene pond, a perfect spot for bird watching.
- Short Hiking Trails: Ideal for quick hikes and easy exploration.
10. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
A large park with a variety of outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and swimming.
- Camping Opportunities: Set up camp for an overnight stay under the stars.
- Swimming Beach: Enjoy a day at the beach with easy access to Lake Austin.
- Hiking Trails for All Levels: Explore a network of trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
11. McKinney Falls State Park
A beautiful state park with waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping sites.
- Waterfall Hikes: Hike to the scenic Onion Creek Falls and Lower McKinney Falls.
- Camping Experience: Experience camping in a serene setting with access to modern amenities.
- Historical Sites: Learn about the area's history at the Old Baldwin House, a restored 19th-century farmstead.
12. Cedar Creek Trail
A scenic trail running along Cedar Creek with beautiful canyons and waterfalls.
- Beautiful Canyons: Explore stunning limestone canyons lined with colorful wildflowers.
- Waterfall Sights: Witness the cascading beauty of Cedar Creek Falls.
- Horseback Riding Trails: Bring your horse for a guided trail ride through the scenic landscape.
13. Stacey's Point Park
A small park with hiking trails and panoramic views of Lady Bird Lake.
- Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake.
- Hiking Trails: Explore easy-to-moderate hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Peaceful Setting: Find a serene escape from the bustling city in this quiet park.
14. Buchanan Park
A large park with hiking trails, sports fields, and a disc golf course.
- Variety of Outdoor Activities: Enjoy numerous outdoor activities like hiking, soccer, and disc golf.
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Austin for easy access.
- Large Event Spaces: Host events or gatherings at spacious picnic areas and sports fields.
15. Mansfield Dam Park
A park featuring hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a scenic dam overlook.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot a variety of birds and other wildlife along the trails.
- Scenic Dam Overlook: Take in stunning views of the Mansfield Dam and Colorado River.
- Hiking Opportunities: Explore various hiking trails that wind through the park.