11 Hikes in Austin for Your Spring Adventure

Spring is a great time to get outside in Austin, before the summer heat sets in. Here are eleven hikes worth checking out this season.

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell’s trail leads up to Covert Park, with a view over Lake Austin that’s especially good at sunset. There are picnic tables scattered around if you want to make a meal of it.

Mayfield Park

Mayfield Park has peacocks that roam the grounds, along with quiet trails and picnic spots — a good pick for an easy woodland walk.

Shoal Creek Greenbelt

Shoal Creek Greenbelt runs next to Pease Park. You can picnic under the trees or right along the creek.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Emma Long Metropolitan Park, in northwest Austin, has the Turkey Creek Trail plus lakeside spots along Lake Austin if you’d rather picnic than hike the whole thing.

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is popular with campers and day-trippers alike, with a handful of scenic hiking trails to choose from.

Bull Creek District Park

Bull Creek Greenbelt has calm water and shaded trails — a nice spot to bring a packed lunch.

Brushy Creek Trail

Brushy Creek Trail runs about ten miles, with quiet spots and shaded rest stops along the way for hikers looking for something longer.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is known for its plant collection, and there are benches and tables if you want to picnic while you’re there.

Commons Ford Ranch

The Commons Ford Waterfall Trail, in Commons Ford Park, ends at a small waterfall — a good spot to stop for a meal before heading back.

Violet Crown Trail

Violet Crown Trail is a 3.7-mile trail near Austin, open year-round, good for running, walking, or just a slower walk.

River Place Nature Trail

River Place Nature Trail is the toughest one on this list, with steep climbs, tough descents, and a lot of stairs. It’s a real workout, but the hill country views make it worth it.

Spring in Austin is a good excuse to get outside, whether you’re after an easy walk or something more challenging. These eleven trails cover both ends of that range.