Austin, TX is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors. From running and biking trails to nature preserves and parks, the city has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best running and biking trails in Austin, TX so you can make the most of your experience.
- Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
- Barton Creek Greenbelt
- McKinney Falls State Park
- Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
- Bull Creek District Park
- St. Edward’s Park
- Brushy Creek Regional Trail
- Mayfield Park and Preserve
1. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
The beautiful Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is a favorite of Austin’s outdoor enthusiasts. This 10.1-mile loop around the lake is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the city. The trail is flat and well-maintained, offering a great opportunity to run, bike, or take a leisurely stroll. You’ll find plenty of lush green spaces and stunning views of the lake.
The trail was built in the 1970s and is named after former US First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. It offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. There are also several scenic spots along the trail that make great stops for a picnic or a rest.
If you’re looking for a more challenging workout, the trail provides some hills and rugged terrain to explore. The trail is especially popular with runners, who take advantage of its wide, flat paths for sprints and long-distance runs. You can also find guided running tours and bike rentals along the trail.
No matter what kind of activity you’re looking for, Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a challenging workout, or just a great view, this trail has it all. So lace up your running shoes, grab your bike, and head on out to explore the best running and biking trails in Austin, TX.
2. Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a great place to explore the outdoors in Austin, TX. This 7.9-mile trail is a popular destination for runners and bikers of all skill levels. Its unique terrain offers a variety of hills, valleys, and creeks to explore. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced trail runner or biker, you’ll find the Barton Creek Greenbelt a rewarding experience.
The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of natural beauty to behold. With its lush foliage and colorful wildflowers dotting the landscape, Barton Creek Greenbelt is an inviting destination to spend a day outdoors. The trail is also popular for its abundance of wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to observe deer, birds, and other animals.
The trail also features several swimming holes, ideal for cooling off on a hot summer day. These swimming holes are typically populated with people, so keep an eye out for safety when visiting.
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is an amazing place to explore the outdoors in Austin, TX. Whether you’re a runner or biker, you’ll find plenty of hills, valleys, and creeks to explore. Take some time to appreciate its natural beauty, observe its wildlife, and take a refreshing dip in its swimming holes. With something for everyone, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Austin, TX. Located just south of downtown, this beautiful state park is the perfect spot to explore nature while getting some exercise. Runners and bikers will find plenty of trails to explore, winding through lush, green forests and alongside gentle streams. From easy, beginner-level trails to more challenging routes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Aside from running and biking, visitors can also explore the numerous other outdoor activities available at McKinney Falls State Park. You can go fishing in Onion Creek, take a dip in the swimming hole, or even explore the archaeological sites. There’s also a campground if you’re looking to spend the night.
The park is a great place to take in the beauty of the area. You can enjoy stunning views of the cascading falls, explore the rocky banks of the creek, and take a break by the picnic tables and grills. Whether you’re looking for a quick run to clear your head or a leisurely bike ride, McKinney Falls State Park is the perfect spot to explore.
From its running and biking trails to its other outdoor activities, McKinney Falls State Park is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors in Austin, TX. With its stunning views and diverse activities, the park is the perfect place to get some exercise and take in the beauty of the area. So if you’re looking for somewhere to explore, add McKinney Falls State Park to your list of must-see spots.
4. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is an oasis of peace and serenity in the bustling city of Austin, perfect for runners and bikers looking for a tranquil experience. With lush trails, scenic views of the creek, and plenty of wildlife and nature to explore, it’s no wonder why this park is so popular.
A great way to start your adventure is on the Walnut Creek Trail, a 4.5 mile loop with beautiful views of the creek and the surrounding hills. With its moderate elevation changes and long stretches of flat terrain, it’s the perfect path for beginner and experienced cyclists alike.
The park also offers numerous other trails for runners, including the Cedar Ridge Trail, the Vista Trail, and the Hills Trail. These trails feature plenty of winding paths and varying terrain, from rolling hills to flat stretches, making them ideal for runners of all levels and abilities.
No matter which trail you choose, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience. The park is full of wildlife, from birds, deer, and armadillos to raccoons, rabbits, and other species. You’ll also find plenty of native plants, from wildflowers to cacti and other local vegetation.
So if you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor escape, look no further than Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park. With its vast array of trails and stunning views, this park is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors and discover the beauty of Austin, TX.
5. Bull Creek District Park
Bull Creek District Park is a great place for runners and bikers to explore Austin’s natural beauty. With 8 miles of trails, you’ll find plenty of hills and valleys to traverse, and with the serene atmosphere of the park, you’ll be able to take in all of the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. The park also offers a variety of other activities, such as fishing, disc golf, and swimming. If you’re looking to take a break from the trail, you can take a dip in the cold, clear waters of Bull Creek, or take a leisurely stroll along the banks.
At Bull Creek District Park, you’ll find some of the most unique and diverse running and biking trails in Austin. The trails take you through the park’s wooded hills and valleys, and provide spectacular views of the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for something easy and relaxing, or something more challenging, there’s something for everyone. The trails are well marked and maintained, making it easy to find your way around the park.
Bull Creek District Park is a great place to get in some exercise, while taking in all that Austin has to offer. With 8 miles of trails, plenty of other outdoor activities, and spectacular views, it’s the perfect place to explore the outdoors and get a great workout. Come explore the trails and experience all that the park has to offer!
6. St. Edward’s Park
Situated just five miles from downtown Austin, St. Edward’s Park is one of the best places to explore the great outdoors. The park is popular among runners and bikers due to its challenging trails, which span over 6 miles. As you make your way around the park, you’ll find plenty of hills and valleys that make for a great workout.
The park also has several trails that are suitable for beginner bikers and runners. The trails range in length and difficulty, so no matter your experience level, you’ll find something that’s suitable for you.
While exploring the park, be sure to keep an eye out for the native flora and fauna. St. Edward’s Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, butterflies, and other animals. You can also take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and streams.
For those looking for an extra challenge, St. Edward’s Park also features an orienteering course. The course is designed to test your navigational and problem-solving skills, so it’s a great way to challenge yourself and take your outdoor adventure to the next level.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, St. Edward’s Park is the perfect place to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner or biker, the park offers something for everyone. So lace up your sneakers and get ready for an adventure!
7. Brushy Creek Regional Trail
The Brushy Creek Regional Trail is one of the best running and biking trails in Austin, TX. This 10-mile loop has something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely jog or an intense bike ride, the trail has plenty of hills and valleys to explore. You’ll find yourself surrounded by nature, with plenty of wildflowers and trees to admire. Plus, the trail also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as fishing, geocaching, and birdwatching.
In addition to the trails, there are multiple parks located along the route. You can take a break from your run or bike ride to explore the playgrounds, picnic areas, and other recreational activities. Plus, if you’re feeling hungry after your workout, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
The Brushy Creek Regional Trail is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors. With its stunning views and variety of activities, it’s no surprise that this trail is one of the most popular running and biking trails in Austin, TX. So come out and explore the beauty of Austin’s great outdoors – you won’t be disappointed!
8. Mayfield Park and Preserve
Mayfield Park and Preserve is a truly unique experience for runners and bikers looking to explore the outdoors in Austin, TX. Located in the heart of the city, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to explore the great outdoors with its 5 miles of trails. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, with plenty of opportunities to watch birds, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
The trails at Mayfield Park and Preserve are perfect for exploring the outdoors. Whether you’re running or biking, you’ll find plenty of breathtaking views. The paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making for a smooth and enjoyable experience. In addition to running and biking, the preserve also features a variety of other activities such as fishing, picnicking, and bird watching.
For those looking for a unique and enjoyable experience, Mayfield Park and Preserve is a great choice. With its 5 miles of trails, this park offers something for everyone. From running and biking to fishing and picnicking, there’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained. The wildlife in the preserve is also a great sight to behold, with plenty of opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Overall, Mayfield Park and Preserve is a great spot for runners and bikers looking to explore the great outdoors. With its 5 miles of trails and plenty of wildlife to observe, this is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors in Austin, TX. So if you’re looking for a unique and enjoyable experience, be sure to check out Mayfield Park and Preserve.
