When I first moved to Austin, I had a hard time connecting with the city. I wasn't used to living so close to downtown, and wasn't sure how I felt about my friends' obsessive need to drink copious amounts of alcohol on this place called "dirty sixth" every night? It took me a while, but I eventually found solace in two things: The Blanton Art Museum and Barton Creek Greenbelt.
Spring is by FAR the best time to hike in Austin. The city comes to life as the landscape starts to bloom, and with it comes some of the best scenery to visit and explore. In case you're a seasoned pro like me when it comes to hiking around central Austin, there are a few more spots listed on the outskirts that you might want to check out this year!
Barton Creek Greenbelt
3918 S Mopac Expy (South) | Easy to Difficult | 7mi | Website
What to Expect: Several access points, unofficial unpaved trails, small rapids and falls, and rock climbing.
Bull Creek District Park
6701 Lakewood Dr (North) | Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Springs and waterways, scenic cliffs, waterfalls, and archaeological features.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
12138 N Lamar Blvd (North) | Easy to Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Long winding trails, varied terrain, sports centers, picnic areas, and a swimming pool nearby.
River Place Nature Trail
8830 Big View Dr (Northwest) | Moderate to Difficult | 5.5 mi | Website
What to Expect: Boardwalk, rocky stairs, hiking trail, elevation changes, views, trickling streams, wildlife, rock formations.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
24518 FM 1431 (Northwest) | Easy to Difficult | 7 mi | Website
What to Expect: Rugged terrain, Hill Country landscapes, native wildlife, and great bird watching.
McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Parkway (East) | Easy to Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Multiple trails and watering holes, historic sites, rock climbing, and entry fee.
Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
3800 Mount Bonnell Rd (West) | Easy | Website
What to Expect: Sweeping views, steep stone stairs, a loose gravel-paved trail, side trails leading down the hill, and a wonderful photo opportunity.
Austin’s 360 Bridge & Overlook
5100 N Capital of Texas Hwy (West) | Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Steep but short hike to the top, views, and a wonderful photo opportunity.
Emma Long Park Turkey Creek Trail
1600 City Park Rd (West) | Moderate | 2.8 mi | Website
What to Expect: Rough terrain, creek access, bike trails, and hilltop views.
Violet Crown Trail
5524 Bee Caves Rd Ste G4 (West) | Easy to Difficult | 6 mi | Website
What to Expect: Dirt trail, Greenbelt access, close proximity to neighborhoods, shopping centers, and schools.
Mayfield Park/Nature Preserve
3505 W 35th St (West) | Easy | 1.5 mi | Website
What to Expect: Leisurely stroll, access to Colorado River, wildlife, and roaming peacocks near the cottage grounds.
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
805 N Capital of Texas Hwy (West) | Easy | 2.5 mi | Website
What to Expect: Native wildlife, looping paths for a longer hike, a few lookout areas, and suggested donation upon entry.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
24518 FM 1431 (Marble Falls) | Easy to Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Wildlife, walking trails, hills, and peaceful atmosphere.
Canyonlands Trails
115 Trophy Dr (Lakeway) | Difficult | 10mi | Website
What to Expect: Technical trail, climbing, running trail, jeep trail and service road crossings, and high points.
Smith Greenbelt
1102 Lohmans Crossing Rd (Lakeway) | Easy to Moderate | 4.5 acres | Website
What to Expect: Short hiking trail, creek access, and terrain fit for mountain biking.
Pace Bend Park
2805 Pace Bend Rd N (Spicewood) | Moderate | Website
What to Expect: Multi-use trails, views, and entry fee.
If you're looking for a full-on camping trip, make sure you take a look at the 9 best places to camp in and around Austin by CultureMap! I'm a huge fan of McKinney Falls... I've shot grad and personal photos there, hiked those trails with countless loved ones, and soaked up the sun from the watering holes like summer would never end. I can't wait to spend some time in nature this spring!
List originally published on One More Thing.