2026-08-28 08:51:35
Nature is never far away in Austin — swimming holes, urban trails, sparkling lakes and surprising wildlife await around every bend.
Barton Creek Greenbelt is a peaceful escape right in the city, with 12 miles of lush trails, swimming holes and scenic overlooks. Easy nature walks and challenging hikes reveal lovely Lake Austin views at Emma Long Metropolitan Park. Ramble McKinney Falls State Park, where bald cypress trees, dramatic rock formations and two waterfalls frame Onion Creek.
Mountain bikers love South Austin’s Violet Crown Trail, with switchbacks and steep climbs on some sections. For smoother terrain, try the paved 3.1-mile Veloway. Pedestrian-free, it’s perfect for a leisurely family ride. Spot deer, armadillos and snakes among gentle hills and creek crossings on the 7.3-mile Southern Walnut Creek Trail.
Bring your binoculars to Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to spot colorful native and migrating birds among the local flora. Three ponds at Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory attract hundreds of waterfowl and shorebirds, including sandpipers and shovelers. Wander the unspoiled parkland at Milton Reimers Ranch Park to find roadrunners, woodpeckers and buntings, along with bonus views of the Pedernales River.
Cool off in Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed oasis and Austin’s favorite summer hang. Deep Eddy Pool is Texas’ oldest man-made pool, with a one-acre wading area fed by clear, blue spring water. Rope swing into the turquoise waters of Blue Hole, shaded by towering creekside cypress trees.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at Lady Bird Lake for a relaxing paddle under the downtown skyline. Cruise Lake Austin, pass beneath the iconic Pennybacker Bridge and dock at a waterside restaurant for lunch. At nearly 30 square miles, Lake Travis welcomes adrenaline junkies for wakeboarding and jet skiing, or fishing and sunbathing in a quiet cove.
From spring through early fall, Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge is home to North America’s largest urban bat colony. Find a spot on the bridge at dusk to see them flutter out on their nightly insect hunt. Or watch from the water. Lone Star Riverboat and Capital Cruises offer bat-watching tours from open-air electric boats. You can also paddle out with Austin Rowing Club or Austin Kayak Tours.
CLICK HERE to discover more Austin outdoor adventures
©Visit Austin. View All Articles.
Get Outside
https://digital.milespartnership.com/article/Get+Outside/5198527/869076/article.html