Austin is a great city for cyclists with plenty of routes and trails to explore. From the scenic Lady Bird Lake Trail to the challenging Barton Creek Greenbelt, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best bike trails and cycling routes in Austin.
- Mountain Biking at Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
- Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Veloway
- Lady Bird Lake Trail
- Central Austin Bike Routes
- East Austin Bike Tour
- Circuit of the Americas
- Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
1. Mountain Biking at Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Mountain bikers looking for a challenge will love Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park! This park offers 10 miles of trails, complete with thrilling terrain and obstacles that will keep experienced riders on their toes. It also provides a great opportunity to explore some of the natural beauty of Austin. There are a variety of trails to suit riders of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
The park also has picnic areas and restrooms for visitors, making it a great place for a day trip. Experienced mountain bikers can take advantage of the trails’ many jumps and tight turns, while those just starting out can take their time and enjoy the scenery.
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Austin, the trails at Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park are the perfect choice. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With its varied terrain and ample amenities, it’s no wonder this park has become a favorite spot for mountain bikers in Austin.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure and the chance to explore some of Austin’s best trails, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park should be at the top of your list! Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or a beginner, this park has something for you.
2. Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a beloved Austin biking trail that can be enjoyed by cyclists of all levels of experience. This 7.9-mile trail is beloved by mountain bikers, as its varying difficulty makes it an enjoyable challenge. With gentle, rolling hills and plenty of scenic stops, the trail is a great place to explore Austin’s natural beauty.
The Greenbelt is lined with limestone cliffs that provide a unique backdrop for the trail. Cyclists can take in views of the limestone formations, creeks, and canyons, as well as wildlife such as deer, armadillos, and foxes. There are also plenty of places for a break, including swimming holes, hidden waterfalls, and shady groves.
The trail is also home to the Barton Creek Bike Park, which is a great spot for experienced and novice cyclists alike. The park features over 30 acres of trails, jumps, and drops, as well as a skills course that can help novice cyclists sharpen their skills.
For those looking for a unique biking experience, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a great choice. With its challenging terrain, scenic views, and plenty of spots for a break, the trail is a great way to explore Austin’s natural beauty and get a great workout.
3. Veloway
The Veloway is a cyclist’s paradise, located just south of downtown Austin. The 3.1-mile loop is designed specifically for cyclists and rollerbladers, and is the only place in the city where you can legally ride at full speed. It’s a great place to practice and get in some speedwork, and is one of the best cycling trails in Austin.
The Veloway is a popular spot for families, so you’ll always find a friendly atmosphere. The loop is well-maintained and includes tight curves and gentle slopes that will challenge experienced cyclists and encourage beginners. There are also plenty of spots to rest and refuel, with shaded seating areas and water fountains along the path.
The Veloway is a great place to practice your cycling technique and to just have fun. You can also take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the loop is open 24/7, so you can explore on your own time. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner looking to get into the sport, the Veloway is an ideal spot to enjoy some of Austin’s best cycling routes.
4. Lady Bird Lake Trail
The Lady Bird Lake Trail is one of the most popular and scenic cycling routes in Austin. It runs along the lake for 10 miles and is a great spot to take in some of the city’s beautiful landscapes. The trail is mainly flat and easy to navigate, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate cyclists. In addition, the trail has plenty of stunning views of the lake and the Austin skyline that are sure to make for a memorable bike ride.
The trail has also become a popular spot for sightseeing and wildlife watching. The trail runs along Lady Bird Lake, so there are plenty of opportunities to spot birds, turtles, and other wildlife. It’s not uncommon for cyclists to stop and take in the incredible beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
The Lady Bird Lake Trail makes for a great day out for cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a gentle ride, or a more experienced cyclist looking for a challenge, this trail has something for everyone. Plus, it’s a great place to take in some of Austin’s most beautiful views. For those looking for a more serious ride, the trail also links up to the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a more challenging route.
The Lady Bird Lake Trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore all that Austin has to offer for cyclists. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the trail is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
5. Central Austin Bike Routes
Central Austin is a great place to explore on two wheels! With plenty of bike routes and trails to choose from, cyclists can find a path that suits their skill level and interests. Two of the most popular routes in Central Austin are the Shoal Creek Trail and the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge.
The Shoal Creek Trail is a great choice for a leisurely ride. This 4.7-mile trail takes cyclists through the heart of downtown Austin, passing by iconic landmarks like the Austonian and the Texas State Capitol. Along the way, riders will find plenty of places to stop and admire the views, including the picturesque Shoal Creek Park.
The Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge is another popular cycling route in Central Austin. This bridge spans Lady Bird Lake and connects the north and south sides of the city. The bridge is a great place for cyclists to enjoy views of the city skyline and many of Austin’s iconic bridges. Plus, it’s a great spot for a rest stop as cyclists can take a break and take in the stunning views.
No matter what type of ride you’re looking for, Central Austin has plenty of bike routes and trails to explore. From the peaceful Shoal Creek Trail to the breathtaking Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your bike and get ready for a great ride!
6. East Austin Bike Tour
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Austin’s east side, then the East Austin Bike Tour is the perfect adventure for you. This guided tour offers a great way to get to know the city and get some exercise in the process. The tour takes you along the historic streets of East Austin, showing off the vibrant art, culture, and local businesses that make this part of the city so special.
You’ll be able to explore the area on two wheels, taking in the sights and sounds and getting to know the vibrant community. The tour also takes you through some of the city’s most iconic parks and green spaces, including the expansive Mueller Lake Park and the lush Zilker Park. You’ll also get to ride along the scenic Lady Bird Lake Trail, with its beautiful views of downtown Austin.
The tour is great for cyclists of all levels, whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced rider. The guides provide helpful tips and information on the routes, so you can make the most of your ride. Plus, you’ll get to explore the city in a unique and fun way.
So if you’re looking for a great way to explore the city’s east side and get some exercise in the process, then the East Austin Bike Tour is the perfect adventure for you. It’s a great way to get to know the city, explore its vibrant neighborhoods, and take in the beautiful sights and sounds of Austin.
7. Circuit of the Americas
The Circuit of the Americas is a great place for cyclists to practice their racing skills, get a good workout, and take in the scenery. Located just outside of Austin, the 3.41-mile track is open to cyclists who want to experience the thrill of a race track. This isn’t an easy track though, as it features a series of inclines, banked turns, and other obstacles that make it a real challenge.
In addition to the track itself, there is also a great view of the surrounding area, with the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country in the background. It’s a great place to take a break and admire the scenery, before getting back to the race. For those looking for a more leisurely ride, the track also has a number of easier routes that are great for a relaxing ride.
The Circuit of the Americas is a great way to experience the excitement of a race track, while also getting a good workout and enjoying the scenery. It’s a great choice for experienced cyclists who want to test their skills, as well as for those who just want to take a leisurely ride. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ride or an easy route, the Circuit of the Americas has something for everyone.
8. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is an essential route for cyclists in Austin. This 10.1-mile trail runs along Lady Bird Lake, with stunning views of the Austin skyline that make for a beautiful cycling experience. The route is also great for anyone looking to get some exercise; the trail is mostly flat with a few hills to challenge more experienced cyclists. Along the trail you’ll find plenty of places to stop and rest, such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and a disc golf course.
The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with plenty of signs and markers to guide cyclists along the way. It’s a great place to explore the city, with several popular attractions located along the route. You can take a break at the Congress Avenue Bridge and take in the view of the Austin skyline, or visit the Austin Nature and Science Center for some outdoor education. You can also stop at the Austin American-Statesman to view the historic building and its iconic neon sign.
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is a great route for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge or a beginner just getting into the sport, this trail has something for everyone. With its stunning views, easy navigation, and plenty of attractions along the way, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is the perfect place to explore Austin’s best bike trails and cycling routes.
