4 Best Places to Run in Austin, Texas
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If you’ve never been to Austin, Texas before, the first thing that you might notice is how active the city is. In fact, we dare to say that Austin is one of the best places to run in Texas! The city is packed with hike and bike trails, all offering a different view of the city and allowing the runner or cyclist to experience Austin at its finest. Whether you’re visiting the city on a quick trip or you’re on moving to Austin (it’s reported 152 move here per day!), the local running trails are second to none!
Photo Credit: Mac Morales
Ann and Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake
Officially named the Ann and Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, you might commonly hear this trail referred to by locals as the Lady Bird Lake Running Trail or the Town Lake Trail. While this might be confusing to visitors, in 2007, Austin City Council voted unanimously to change Town Lake’s name to Lady Bird Lake, after Lady Bird Johnson died at age 94. Many locals still use these names interchangeably.
The Hike & Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake is one of the oldest urban Texas hike and bike paths, creating a 10-mile loop from West to East Austin. The majority of this well-maintained flat trail is crushed granite, with small portions of sidewalk and a boardwalk on the south side, newly added in 2014. Numerous bridge crossing allow a runner or cyclist to create loop routes for 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10-mile distances.
Where do I park?
Free parking is plentiful along the lengths of the trail in many parking lots, including Auditorium shores, Longhorn Dam and the gravel lots underneath Mopac Boulevard. Pay-to-park and street parking is also available.
Do I need to bring my own water bottle?
No! Water fountains are frequent along the entire 10-mile route. However, during winter temperatures, water fountains may be shut off to prevent freezing.
Are bathrooms on the route?
Yes! There are many bathrooms located directly on the trail.
Read more: 5 Ways to Beat the Heat When Running
Photo Credit: AustinTexas.org
Southern Walnut Creek Trail
Located in East Austin, this is 7.3 mile concrete path links Govalle Park to the Walnut Creek Sports Park. This two-lane flat path is perfect for runners or cyclists looking to enjoy a quiet shaded run surrounded by trees and nature.
Where do I park?
Free parking can be found at the southern trailhead at Govalle Park (5200 Bolm Rd.). Trail access is also available along the trail at YMCA of Austin and Austin Tennis Center.
Do I need to bring my own water bottle?
Yes, there are not fountains along the path.
Are bathrooms on the route?
No. But bathrooms are located at the YMCA and Govalle Park.
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Photo credit: Trail Link
Brushy Creek Regional Trail
Located north of Austin in Cedar Park, the Brushy Creek Trail stretches 6.75 miles of lightly shaded paved trail and crushed, linking numerous parks and residential areas. Great option for those looking to avoid the noise and downtown traffic of Austin
Where do I park?
Free parking can be found at Twin Lakes Park, Champion Park or Brushy Creek Lake Park.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water Bottle?
No! There are many water fountains in the parks along the route.
Are bathrooms on the route?
Yes, many of the parks have bathrooms.
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Photo Credit: AustinParks.org
Barton Creek Greenbelt
If trail running in Austin is what you’re looking for, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, spanning 1,937 acres in south-central Austin, has some of the best running trails. The main trail, stemming from Zilker Park, is approximately 7.9 miles long, but with numerous side trails and paths, it is easy to add to any desired distance. If you’re looking for some of the best hills to run in Austin, head over to the Hill of Life trailhead on Camp Craft Rd (this is a neighborhood, so please be respectful when parking). Depending on the time of year, you may encounter water crossings and wet rock, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear when running.
Where do I park?
Free parking can be found at any of the trailheads. (See map below for details)
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water Bottle?
Yes, there are no water fountains along any trail.
Are bathrooms on the route?
No. Nature is your bathroom. (Although bathrooms can be found at Barton Springs Pool trailhead).
