Texas
Nature|Hiking

The Little Known Nature Trail In Austin With The Most Breathtaking Views

Published Sep 15, 2017

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Are you up for the challenge? This Austin nature trail will get your heart pumping, but the steep climb is worth it. Not many people know about The River Place Nature Trail, but it has some of the most breathtaking views in Austin.

Grab your hiking boots and head up to this stunning trail in northwest Austin.

alt
Lewis B./Yelp

River Place Nature Trail is located at 8820 Big View Dr, but the views will make you feel a million miles away from it all.

advertisement

When you reach the south trailhead, you'll see a serene little pond.

alt
Mark M./Yelp

People love to fish in these waters, and it's not uncommon to see swans gracefully gliding by.

alt
Julianne S./Yelp

There are three different trails to embark on, all with ample shade and jaw-dropping landscapes.

alt
Mark M./Yelp

Whether you choose to travel through the Panther Hollow, Fern, or Canyons trails, you're sure to find some magnificent views.

After a brisk ten minute walk, you have the option to turn onto Fern Trail.

alt
Juniper L./Yelp

Fern Trail will take you through a fairy tale-like landscape full of waterfalls.

advertisement
alt
Stacey H./Yelp

Panther Hollow Trail continues forward and turns into Canyons Trail.

alt
Delia S./Yelp

This steep hike is quite a workout, but it takes you to some gorgeous scenic overlooks.

alt
Julianne S./Yelp

You can't beat the view from the top of Canyons Trail.

alt
Mark M./Yelp

Remember to bring a water bottle! These trails don't make a loop, so you'll have to turn around and walk back. The total hike from Panther Hollow Trail to Canyons Trail and back is 5.5 miles.

This little known trail is truly stunning.

alt
Mark M./Yelp

Visit River Place Nature Trail at 8830 Big View Dr.

advertisement

Looking for more beautiful hiking trails? These 10 gorgeous Austin nature trails are under 5 miles long.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Hiking

The Hike Near Austin That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination

Discover the tranquil and scenic Gorman Falls in Colorado Bend State Park, a perfect day trip destination near Austin, Texas.

Updated Jul 25, 2024

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Escape from the noise and distractions. Venture to Bend, and enjoy Gorman Falls Trail in Texas. This spectacular scenery is worthy of a day trip. You'll fall in love with the tranquil paths, shady trees, and blissful atmosphere. This hike near Austin leads to the most unforgettable destination. When it comes to amazing hikes in Texas this one will rank up there with some of the best of them. So time to lace up your hiking boots and let's hit the trail.

advertisement

Journey to Colorado Bend and soak up the sights.

alt
Janet Hdz/AllTrails

This 2.8-mile out-and-back trail is incredibly peaceful. The Gorman Falls Trail difficulty is rated as moderate, but trust us when we say it is worth all of the effort to get there.

alt
Larry Jarrett/All Trails

The clear-cut paths are easy to follow.

alt
Aga Pawluczuk/All Trails

And the rocky parts add a fun challenge.

alt
Aga Pawluczuk/All Trails

When you reach the end, you'll discover something truly magnificent.

alt
Floyd Pierce/All Trails

Can you believe these Gorman Falls Trail photos?

A stunning waterfall trickles down the rocks.

advertisement
alt
Chris Eckerman/All Trails

As the sun beams in, you'll feel like you're in a fairytale.

alt
Larry Jarrett/All Trails

You won't want to miss this spectacular view.

alt
Kevin Allen/All Trails

Take a trip to Gorman Falls.

alt
Nick Clegg/All Trails

Gorman Falls sits in Colorado Bend State Park at 2236 Park Hill Dr in Bend, Texas. To learn more about this trail, download the map of the Gorman Falls Trail on AllTrails.

Have you ever hiked the Gorman Falls Trail in Texas? This is one spectacular trail and we would recommend using the tool we use on every single hike. AllTrails will help you stay on the trail and not get lost on your journey. If you run into any fellow travelers and you are new to the area, you might want to check out this OnlyInYourState video on how to talk like a Texan just so you can fit in a little bit more.

Now that you know all of the local lingo, time to hit some more trails in the state. Looking for more nature? This shady creekside trail in Austin is one you'll want to take again and again.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Hiking

This 4-Mile Hike In Austin Leads To The Dreamiest Swimming Hole

Barton Creek Greenbelt offers a picturesque four-mile hike leading to beautiful swimming holes near Austin, Texas.

Updated Apr 5, 2024

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of the most cherished places in the city. It’s easy to see why - the vibrant trees, refreshing water, and ample shade make Austinites absolutely giddy. There are dozens of paths and trails to take, but nothing beats this picturesque journey. This four-mile trek is one of the best hiking trails near Austin, Texas, and leads to one of the dreamiest Austin swimming holes. Intrigued? Then come with us on this outdoor adventure and experience this stunning oasis for yourself. Oh…before you leave for your hike, we recommend downloading AllTrails+ for offline maps and more.

advertisement

There are several options for greenbelt hiking, but this trail begins at the Gaines/Twin Falls access point.

alt
D Beasley/AllTrails

If you enter from this trailhead, you'll be met with a breezy, 3.7-mile out-and-back trail. This is the ideal spot to start your easy, shaded stroll.

Along the way, you'll be surrounded by shady trees and colorful plant life.

alt
James Sandoval/AllTrails

Take your time soaking in the surroundings. There's something soothing and therapeutic about walking amongst these Central Texas trees.

Rocky bluffs surround this gorgeous pathway.

alt
Sarah Grace/AllTrails

In the Spring and Summer, these cliffs are covered in vibrant green plants.

Soon, you'll reach the main attractions: Twin and Sculpture Falls.

alt
Sandy Hill/AllTrails

No matter which swimming hole you choose to wade in, you're certain to have a refreshing afternoon along this greenbelt trail.

advertisement

Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and hat. You could spend all day at this oasis.

alt
Lida Jenney/Google

After a large rainfall, water gushes down the falls.

alt
Maurice Nelson/AllTrails

Texas is often in a drought, but after those rare rainy moments, Twin and Sculpture Falls take on a whole new life. People always flock to the greenbelt after a heavy drizzle.

Dogs love frolicking along the water and trails, but they must be kept on a leash.

alt
Jaret Chapman/AllTrails

No need to leave Fido behind. The greenbelt is for everyone.

This stunning trail will make you fall in love with Austin all over again.

alt
Jaret Chapman/AllTrails

Trailhead Address: 3918 South MoPac Expressway, Austin, TX 78746.

What's your favorite hiking spot in Austin? Have you trekked the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail? If so, do you agree that it's one of the best hiking trails near Austin, Texas? Tell us in the comments below. Also, if you need more ideas for outdoor adventure, check out these eight waterfront trails.

advertisement

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/texas/austin/summerwatertrails/

Don’t forget to download your free trial of AllTrails+ to gain access to up-to-date trail conditions and more.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Food
Restaurants

The Panoramic-View Restaurant on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania Is a Must-Visit

by Beth Price-Williams
on Oct 26
alt
Trip Ideas
Small Towns

If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Connecticut, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss

by Jasmine Vieau
on Oct 26
alt
Nature
Hiking

Hike the Port Penn Wetlands Trail in Delaware for an Unforgettable Adventure

by Jasmine Vieau
on Oct 25
alt
Stays

The Remote Work Retreat Center in New Hampshire You Will Never Want to Leave

by Kim Falchek
on Oct 25
The lodge at Quietude conference center in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire. A firepit sits in the forefront. The lodge is set against a backdrop of trees.
Nature
Hiking

We Explored a Cave and a Waterfall Along this Easy Tennessee Hike

by Chris Dodge
on Oct 25
The plunging water of Lost Creek Falls among cavernous rock formations.