In addition to Austin's booming live music scene, the capital city is home to some peacefully beautiful hiking trails. With so much bountiful nature surrounding the city, it can be difficult to decide where to start. So we put together the following list of what we consider to be the very best hikes in Austin, Texas. If there are only five hikes you ever do in Austin, make them these!
1. The Homestead Trail at McKinney Falls
McKinney Falls State Park glistens with natural beauty, and there's no better way to experience it than by hiking the Homestead Trail. This 3.1-mile loop will take you past the historic home of Thomas F. McKinney, as well as a rushing waterfall. This dog-friendly trail is perfect for moderate hikers. To learn more about The McKinney Homestead Trail, be sure to read our feature article.
2. River Place Nature Trail
This rigorous hike is worth the sweat. At River Place Nature Trail, you'll walk amongst rippling creeks, shady trees, and lush vegetation. To learn more about The River Place Nature Trail, including its many hidden features, check out this article.
3. Turkey Creek Trail
Head over to Emma Long Park at 1600 City Park Road and embark on one of the best hikes in the city. Turkey Creek Trail is a quick-and-easy 2.5-mile hike that's sure to reinvigorate your spirit. You can learn more about Turkey Creek Trail in this feature article.
4. The Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt has more than 13 miles of trails, so you can hike for as little or as long as you want! The Greenbelt is a perennial Austin favorite thanks to its blissful surroundings and walkable trails. There are several entrances, but you will find the trailhead for this hike located at 2201 Barton Springs Road. Definitely plan to visit the Barton Creek Greenbelt sometime soon!
5. The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Amongst the roaring traffic from N Capital of Texas Highway sits a peaceful and pristine natural oasis that'll melt away your worries. The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve's one-mile hike is the perfect pick-me-up. Head over to 805 N Capital of Texas Highway and see for yourself. To learn more about The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, be sure to check out this article.
What's your favorite hike in our little corner of the Lone Star State? What would be your picks for the best hikes in Austin? Sound off in the comments below!
Looking for some short-and-sweet waterfall hikes in Austin? Here are some of our top waterfall-chaser-approved adventures!
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