March 14, 2025
Lifestyle, Guides,
Need to escape the city and get back in touch with nature? These five hikes are an excellent way to see the sights, get some fresh air and work up a sweat—if you want that.
With trails inside the center of Austin and hikes that head a bit out of the city, these are our favorite five hikes in the Austin area.
See also: The 7 Best Hotels in Austin
Barton Creek Greenbelt
A favorite hike among Austin outdoor enthusiasts, the Barton Creek Greenbelt moves through south Austin. Perfect for hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming and sunbathing, it offers 12 miles of trails with various entrance points at Zilker Park, Campbell’s Hole, Gus Fruh, Twin Falls, Hill of Life and Trail’s End, and Violent Crown Trail. Main trailhead: 3755-B Capital of Texas Highway
River Place Panther Hollow and Canyon Trail
If you’re looking for a wooded hike with high vistas and sweeping views, this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail offers a total of 2 hours and 26 minutes of walking time. It’s a very popular trail with bird watchers, runners and folks hitting the trail with their furry friends, provided dogs stay on a leash. 4998 River Pl Blvd.
Turkey Creek Trail
This easy route is another heavily forested option, boasting 2.7 miles out and back. It’s open year-round, and dogs are welcome and free to roam about in certain off-leash areas. While the trail is kid-friendly and popular with runners, depending on weather conditions, it can be a bit rocky with exposed tree roots and mud. 1401-1711 City Park Rd.
Goodwater Trail
Looking for a heartier, more moderate hike? This gorgeous trail runs between Tejas Park and Cedar Breaks Park near Georgetown. It boasts 9.8 miles point-to-point and 705 feet of elevation gain. It’s open year-round, and dogs are welcome, with off-leash opportunities. Fans of this hike rave about the views as the trail moves through open grassy fields and dense forests alike, running alongside the edge of Lake Georgetown. The trail can become muddy after rains, so plan ahead and take advantage of the free parking before the toll booth. Cedar Breaks Park, Georgetown
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Stay closer to home on this 9.9-mile loop trail that runs through the city of the city. It’s an easy route that takes about three hours to complete, and it's very popular with road bikers, runners and walkers alike. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Because it’s an urban trail, it’s suitable for guests with wheelchairs and strollers, and there are plenty of entrances throughout the loop. It offers stunning views of the skyline, Lady Bird Lake and more.
Photography by: Getty