Hiking in Austin: 7 Prime Trails For The Stunning Views!

Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, Austin is the capital city of Texas. It's the best place to go if you're looking for the most delicious barbecue, a lively music scene, or want to explore many historical sights. But Austin's natural beauty also makes it an excellent destination for outdoor adventurers.

Hiking in Austin offers endless possibilities, whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking to spend time in nature. Since the city is surrounded by a network of parks and hiking trails, you're spoiled for choice! And these best hikes in Austin will fill your Instagram feed with envy-worthy shots. But if you're into camping instead, this camping guide in Austin is for you!

With that in mind, here's a roundup of the best hiking trails in Austin.

When is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Austin?

The best time for hiking in Austin is in the fall or early spring. These months offer favorable weather conditions, so you can enjoy scenic hikes in Austin with reduced rain chances and without the extreme heat. 

You must avoid hiking from May to June when it rains a lot. You can also hike in the summer, which is from June to August. 

If you're hiking in the summer, remember these essential tips: 

• Choose light-colored clothes to reflect the sun's rays and stay cool.
• Wear long sleeve shirts and pants to limit sun exposure.
• Wear sunglasses, sun hats, or bandanas to protect your eyes from the sun. 
• Plan to hike early in the morning when the sun is milder.
• Invest in the right hiking shoes or sandals. Avoid wearing leather footwear. 
• Always pack your bottle of water to stay hydrated. 
• Get plenty of breaks. Also, seek out shade whenever you can.
• Look for hikes that lead to water, such as waterfalls and lakes, so you can cool off at the end of your hike.

7 Most Instagrammable Trails For Hiking in Austin

There are multiple trails perfect for hiking in Texas. Aside from Austin, Dallas is another city in Texas with excellent hiking options.

Grab your hiking shoes and prepare for swoon-worthy hikes to give you a new appreciation of Austin's natural beauty.

7. Ann and Roy Butler Trail

The Ann and Roy Butler Trail is on the list of locals' favorite urban hiking trails in Austin. It's so popular that over two million people hike this trail yearly. And yet, it never feels crowded because the trail stretches for ten miles on a circular loop. 

Another reason why this trail is highly famous is that it straddles Lady Bird Lake. Hikers can stop on this trail to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can book a rental for a stand-up paddle at Lady Bird Lake or try a kayaking tour.

Some hikers opt to unwind and picnic while enjoying the serene lake views. Meanwhile, locals like to jog or run on some parts of the trail since it's easily accessible from the center of Austin.

Trail type: 10-mile loop

Average time: 3–4 hours

Difficulty level: Easy

6. Walnut Creek Trail

Walnut Creek Trail is one of Austin's most scenic hiking trails because of its lush vegetation, deep ravines, creek beds, and bird population. And yet, it's right smack in the middle of two busy streets, making it one of the go-to hiking spots for locals. 

It's a dream destination for nature lovers because of the seemingly endless greenery. You'll want to take a few snaps for your Instagram feed. 

Compared to other trails in Austin, this one is less well-marked. Always pay attention to the main hiking trails and avoid going off the trail. 

Currently, there are plans to expand on the Walnut Creek Trail. If you've hiked it before, you'll want to try it in the future, as it will connect to other trails.

Trail type: 10-mile loop

Average time: 3–4 hours

Difficulty level: Easy

5. Mount Bonnell Trail

Mount Bonnell Trail is one of the most Instagrammable hikes in the US, not just in Austin. It's a short hike, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's not a worthy addition to your list of top hiking trails in Austin.

The Mount Bonnell Trail also boasts some of the best views for any hiking spot in Austin. To reach the top of Mount Bonnell, you'd have to hike for half a mile. Some would argue that this isn't technically a hike since it involves an ascent to the top of the hill.

Once at the top, you'll want to spend as long as you can soaking in the spectacular views of Lake Austin and the city skyline! It's an iconic trail, so take a few snaps as memorabilia. 

Trail type: 0.5 miles

Average time: 11 minutes

Difficulty level: Easy

4. St. Edwards Green and Red Loop

St. Edwards Green and Red Loop are one of the most scenic hikes in Austin. It's close to Austin's cooler neighborhoods, SoCo and South First. 

St. Edwards features ponds, waterfalls, and hiking trails, and it's all tucked within an 80-acre land area. For hikers, you're treated to dreamy views of untouched woodlands and thick canopies. 

If you enjoy your hike in peace, this trail's for you. It's not very well known, even among locals, so you won't encounter many other hikers. 

Trail type: 2.7 miles

Average time: 1–2 hours

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

3. Barton Creek Greenbelt

If you're looking for a hike in Austin that brings you to a body of water, this is it! That's why it isn't a surprise that this hiking trail is one of the top hiking spots in Austin. 

This trail leads you to the Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. These swimming holes are perfect if you want to cool off with a swim after a long hike. But you can only enjoy a dip here if you visit in early summer, or else it could be dried out during the late summer months.

Either way, you can enjoy many spectacular views during the hike, especially if you want to enjoy some nature. The main trailhead is accessible from downtown Austin, but many other access points exist.

Trail type: 13.8 miles

Average time: 4–5 hours

Difficulty level: Easy 

2. Mary Moore Searight Park Trail

Add this to your list of the best hiking trails in Austin, especially if you like to take your dog on the trail. It's a gentle loop trail close to a park in a South Austin residential area.

You'll know this trail is close to the city because you can hear cars on the road in some portions. But it's a great spot if you want to relax in nature and escape the bustle of the city. Its views of Slaughter Creek, woodland, and open fields make for an Instagrammable hike!

The hiking trail is connected with outer trails, so you can explore more trails if you want to spend more time in nature. 

Trail type: 2.1-mile loop

Average time: 1 hour

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

1. Hamilton Pool Preserve Trail

While it's one of the trails farthest away from Downtown Austin, it also offers one of the most scenic views. Hamilton Pool Preserve Trail is worth the drive because your hike takes you to a breathtaking location with limestone bluffs, blue lakes, and foliage.

Hamilton Pool is a popular summer destination, so it's packed! You'll want to explore the trails to experience the most beautiful sights when you come here.

Trail type: 1.8 miles

Average time: 1–2 hours, depending on the pace

Difficulty level: Easy

Plan Your Outdoor Texan Adventure with Pilot!

There's something for everyone if you're hiking in Austin. The trails mentioned here give you enough options to enjoy time outdoors and feast on stunning natural views! Plan your hiking itinerary in Austin with Pilot.