A scenic hiking trail surrounded by greenery in Austin, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts exploring local paths.

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Trails in and Around Austin

Austin isn’t just about live music and great food—it’s also a great city for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll by the lake or a more challenging hike, Austin has trails for every type of hiker.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the best trails in and around Austin, with honest tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your time outdoors. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something here for everyone.

1. Hiking Trails Austin For the Sunset and Lakeside Lovers

Scenic views of Ann & Roy Butler Trail and Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk, perfect hiking trails in Austin.

Ann & Roy Butler Trail

The Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail runs around Lady Bird Lake, offering beautiful views of downtown Austin’s skyline and surrounding nature. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk or run, especially at sunset when the light reflects off the water, creating a serene, calming atmosphere.

Why Go: If you're looking for a quick escape from city life with a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking sunset views, this trail is ideal. You’ll get a slice of both urban and natural Austin in one go.

What to Wear: Lightweight, breathable clothing, especially for warmer afternoons. A jacket for cooler evenings is a good idea.

Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk

For a shorter, more intimate lakeside experience, the Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk is a gem. This boardwalk cuts through a section of the lake, providing incredible views of the water and the Austin skyline. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the peaceful sound of the water and the occasional boat passing by. It’s a great place for a quick walk, a jog, or even a leisurely bike ride.

Why Go: If you want a scenic, tranquil walk with a view of downtown without committing to a longer hike, this boardwalk offers the best of both worlds.

What to Wear: Comfortable shoes for walking or cycling, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings by the water.

2. Hiking Trails Austin in the Forest

Scenic views of hiking trails in Austin, showcasing Walnut Creek, Spicewood Valley, Balcones Canyonlands, and Hamilton Greenbelt.

Walnut Creek Trail

If you need a break from the daily grind, Walnut Creek Trail is the perfect place to unwind. Located in North Austin, this trail winds through dense forest, offering a cool, shaded environment, even during the hotter months. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail that’s well-maintained, with minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for a quick post-work hike or a casual weekend outing.

Why Go: It’s close to the city, quiet, and peaceful—a perfect option for those who don’t have the time for a full day hike but still want to reconnect with nature.

What to Wear: Light, breathable gear, comfortable sneakers, and sunscreen. If you’re hiking during the summer, bring extra water.

Spicewood Valley Trail

For a short and sweet forest trail, head to Spicewood Valley Trail. This trail provides a quiet escape with plenty of tree cover, offering a gentle stroll through the woods. It’s a perfect spot if you're looking to experience nature without leaving the city behind.

Why Go: If you’re short on time and looking for something low-effort yet still satisfying, this trail offers just enough nature to make you feel like you’ve stepped far away from Austin’s hustle.

What to Wear: Comfortable, light hiking shoes, and casual, moisture-wicking clothing to keep you comfortable through the woods.

Balcones Canyonlands

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, Balcones Canyonlands is the perfect place. Located just outside Austin, this wildlife refuge is home to diverse ecosystems, including forests and meadows. The trails here are well-maintained, and the environment is peaceful, with plenty of birdwatching opportunities. It’s ideal for nature lovers who want to explore a quieter, more tranquil side of the Hill Country.

Why Go: If you're craving solitude and love birdwatching, this is a perfect escape. It’s also less trafficked, making it a great choice for those looking for a more intimate nature experience.

What to Wear: Comfortable hiking shoes, a bird guidebook, and sunscreen. The trails here are moderate, so ensure you have some sturdy gear for uneven terrain.

Hamilton Greenbelt

For a peaceful hike with plenty of natural beauty, Hamilton Greenbelt is a hidden gem. Located in the Lakeway area, this trail takes you along Barton Creek, with scenic waterfalls, rock formations, and shaded paths. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a quiet escape from the city while still being close to home.

Why Go: It’s less crowded than other popular spots and offers a serene experience with creeks and waterfalls. It’s ideal for a quiet afternoon walk or a weekend escape.

What to Wear: Hiking shoes suitable for rocky terrain, and a light jacket for cooler mornings or evenings.

3. Hiking Trails in Austin with Waterfalls

Two scenic views of waterfalls and natural pools, showcasing hiking trails in Austin's beautiful parks.

Twin Falls / Sculpture Falls

Located along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, the Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls are some of the most beloved spots in Austin, especially after a good rain. These seasonal waterfalls are perfect for a refreshing swim in natural pools, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by trees and rocky terrain. The trail itself is moderately challenging, with some rocky sections and creek crossings, but the payoff is worth it.

Why Go: If you're a fan of waterfalls and love the idea of hiking to a natural swimming hole, this is the trail for you. It’s ideal after rainfall, when the water is flowing.

What to Wear: Water shoes, lightweight hiking gear, and a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip. Be mindful of wet rocks, as they can be slippery.

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park offers some of the best waterfall views in Austin. The trail system here includes easy loops that take you past the park’s two stunning waterfalls—Upper and Lower Falls—making it a perfect destination for a family hike. The trails are short, but they offer great scenic value with beautiful creek crossings and forested paths.

Why Go: The falls are always beautiful, and the park’s trails offer something for everyone, from easy hikes to swimming opportunities. If you want a more laid-back day, this is the place to go.

What to Wear: Sturdy trail shoes for crossing creeks and a hat to protect from the sun, especially during summer.

4. Challenging Hike Trails in Austin

Beautiful scenic views from popular hiking trails in Austin, featuring River Place Canyon Trail and Hill of Life.

River Place Canyon Trail

For those looking for a trail that really gets your heart pumping, River Place Canyon Trail is a must. With numerous steep staircases and challenging terrain, this trail provides a serious workout while offering amazing views of the surrounding hills. It’s perfect for hikers who want to build strength or prepare for more intense mountain hikes.

Why Go: If you're looking to challenge yourself with a tough climb and earn some impressive views, this trail won’t disappoint.

What to Wear: Sturdy, supportive hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, and plenty of water.

Hill of Life

The Hill of Life trail is a short but steep climb that brings you to some of the best views of the Barton Creek area. It’s a quick but intense workout, ideal for those who want to break a sweat but don’t have time for a full-day hike.

Why Go: It’s quick, intense, and the views are worth it. It’s a great option if you’re looking to get in a challenging workout in a short amount of time.

What to Wear: Comfortable hiking shoes for the rocky terrain, a light jacket, and lots of water.

5. Half-Day Austin Hikes with a View

Scenic views of Enchanted Rock and Pedernales Falls State Park, ideal for hiking trails Austin enthusiasts.

Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock is one of the most iconic hikes in Texas. The trail takes you to the summit of a giant pink granite dome, where you’re rewarded with 360-degree views of the Hill Country. It’s a moderate hike that can be completed in just a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

Why Go: The summit views are absolutely breathtaking, and the hike itself is challenging enough to make you feel like you’ve accomplished something. Perfect for a weekend escape.

What to Wear: Good hiking boots with ankle support, breathable clothing, and sunscreen. It can get windy at the top, so bring a jacket.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls offers stunning views of waterfalls and beautiful Hill Country scenery. The trail system here is varied, with options for all skill levels. You’ll find easy walks that follow the river, as well as more challenging routes that take you to higher elevations for panoramic views.

Why Go: Whether you're looking to spend a few hours exploring or want a longer adventure, Pedernales Falls delivers it all, with the bonus of incredible natural beauty.

What to Wear: Sturdy hiking shoes, a hat for sun protection, and plenty of water.

6. Best Hiking Near Austin

Beautiful landscapes of Inks Lake State Park, Colorado Bend State Park, and Muleshoe Bend highlight hiking trails Austin offers.

Inks Lake State Park – Devil’s Backbone Trail

The Devil’s Backbone Trail offers a rugged and scenic route with stunning views of Inks Lake. This trail winds along a cliffside, providing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding nature, with plenty of wildflowers and unique rock formations.

Why Go: Perfect for a shorter, moderately challenging hike with great lake views. Ideal for photography and those looking to enjoy nature without a long trek.

What to Wear: Durable hiking boots, breathable clothing, and sunscreen. It can get windy near the lake, so a light jacket is recommended for the late afternoon.

Colorado Bend State Park – Gorman Falls or Spicewood Springs

  • Location: 2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824
  • Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/wCRC6NhBaA2a2tUTA
  • Best for: Waterfalls, diverse ecosystems
  • Distance: Gorman Falls: 3 miles (round-trip) | Spicewood Springs: 1.5 miles (round-trip)

Colorado Bend features the stunning Gorman Falls, a 70-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Spicewood Springs, a quieter trail, takes you along peaceful creekside paths with opportunities to see wildlife.

Why Go: Gorman Falls is one of the most scenic spots in Texas, with a spectacular waterfall. Spicewood Springs offers a more serene, nature-filled hike for a peaceful experience.

What to Wear: Waterproof hiking shoes for creek crossings, comfortable clothes for the hike, and a hat for sun protection. Be sure to bring water for hydration.

Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area – Lakeshore Trail

  • Location: 2820 Mule Shoe Bend Drive, Co Rd 414, Spicewood, TX 78669
  • Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/HKULaMz7A4WJ7XV99
  • Best for: Lakeside hiking, spring wildflowers, stargazing
  • Distance: 5-6 miles (loop)

Muleshoe Bend is a quiet spot offering beautiful views of Lake Travis. The Lakeshore Trail provides a moderate hike with views of the lake, and wildflowers in spring. The area is also perfect for camping and stargazing due to its remote location.

Why Go: Ideal for a weekend getaway with the option to camp, enjoy lakeside views, and stargaze in a peaceful, remote setting.

What to Wear: Lightweight hiking pants, breathable shirts, sturdy hiking boots, and a jacket for evening temperatures, especially for stargazing.

Practical Tips for Your Austin Hike & Gear Recommendations

Practical tips and gear recommendations for hiking trails Austin, including clothing and safety advice.

Bring an Extra Layer: Texas weather can change quickly, with significant temperature drops in the early morning, evening, or near lakes and wooded areas. Carrying a lightweight outer layer is essential to stay warm after sunset or in windy conditions.

Watch for Slippery Limestone: Many Austin trails, such as Barton Creek Greenbelt and River Place Canyon Trail, feature porous limestone rocks. These become especially slippery when damp from morning dew, rain, or humidity. Wearing shoes with strong traction is important for safety.

Know Trailhead and Pet Rules: Parking at popular trails like Twin Falls fills up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. While Austin is dog-friendly, nearly all city and state parks require dogs to be leashed. Please follow these rules.

Plan Your Waterfall Visits: If you're hoping to see waterfalls, be aware that water levels vary seasonally. McKinney Falls State Park typically has more consistent flow, while falls like Twin Falls often slow to a trickle during dry periods. Checking recent reviews or official park updates before you go is a good idea.

Recommended Gear: Powering Your Adventure with Technology

To cope with the unpredictable conditions of hiking—from significant temperature differences and strong winds by the lake to unexpected slippery surfaces—Alpargali apparel, incorporating cutting-edge technology, helps you focus on the scenery, not the environment.

1. Graphene Vest

This Graphene Vest provides core warmth without restricting movement. It uses graphene for heat retention and Sorona for lightweight, breathable insulation. The Teflon coating helps resist water and stains. It's a practical layer for cooler starts in shaded areas like Walnut Creek Trail or for breaks on windy summits.

2. Graphene Lightweight Jacket

The Graphene Lightweight Jacket is designed for wind protection and variable conditions. The graphene lining helps maintain a comfortable body temperature, while the shell material is treated with Teflon for water and stain resistance. It is a suitable outer layer for hikes along exposed lake areas like Lady Bird Lake or for a sudden weather change.

3. Alpargali Men’s All-Weather Outdoor Jacket

For full-day hikes or unpredictable weather, the Men’s All-Weather Outdoor Jacket offers comprehensive protection. It is waterproof and breathable, with multiple secure pockets for organizing essentials. Features like an adjustable hood and built-in glove tabs provide added utility for hands-free convenience in challenging conditions.

We hope this hiking guide helps you discover Austin's beautiful trails with confidence. From peaceful lakeside walks to challenging hill climbs, having reliable gear can make all the difference in your experience.

If you're looking for versatile outerwear that adapts seamlessly to changing trail conditions—whether it's a sudden breeze by the lake, a cool morning in the woods, or slippery limestone sections—consider the jackets and vests from Alpargali. Designed to be lightweight, functional, and ready for whatever the trail brings, they’re built to keep you comfortable and focused on the views.

Explore our full collection of jackets and vests to find your perfect hiking companion. Stay comfortable, stay prepared, and enjoy every step of your Austin adventure.

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