5 Running Trails in Austin That Will Help You Change Up the Scenery

Part of why we love Austin so much is the perfect mixture of city life and outdoorsy life that it offers! When you need a quick break from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you’re not too far from multiple great running spots to give you a change of scenery.

This guide features five running trails in Austin that we highly recommend for anyone wanting to get out and get active. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced runner, these trails cater to all skill levels!

5 Running Trails in Austin That Will Help You Change Up the Scenery

Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail

? @austin_monthly

Run in the heart of downtown Austin at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a 10-mile trail with more than 2.6 million visits a year. This popular trail, sometimes referred to as the Lady Bird Lake Trail or the Town Lake Trail, features a lush, urban path that meanders along the edge of Lady Bird Lake and passes by skyscrapers, neighborhoods, ball fields, and cultural attractions.

At this spot, you’ll find inspiration among other fit Austinites running, walking, biking, pushing strollers, and walking their dogs. Besides a great destination for exercise, it’s also a place where Austin thrives, with a scenic, natural environment and a diverse, vibrant mix of people. One run on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail and you’ll soon realize why it’s Austin’s most popular recreational destination. Check out our TikTok for more information on the trail.

Hours & Location

?MON–SAT | 5AM–1AM
?SUN | 5AM–12AM

?900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

WEBSITE

Riverplace Nature Trail

? @hikeaustin

Located in west Austin, Riverplace Nature Trail offers Austinites a chance to practice hill running. This 5.5 mile out and back trail has nearly 1,000 feet of vertical gain, challenging beginner and experienced trail runners. The trail also features a waterfall and a number of activity options that are accessible year-round.

If you extend into the Panther Trail, you can get a little more mileage and find some great swimming holes to soak in during or after a hot run. During busy times, entrance to the trail is $10, so be prepared to pay a bit for the experience!

Hours & Location

?OPEN 24 HOURS

?2600 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78705

WEBSITE

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail

? @alissamarieeharms

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, termed “the Greenbelt” by locals, is located in south-central Austin and contains 12.68 miles of gorgeous trails, with the main trail spanning about seven miles. You can access the trails via several entrance points, so we recommend doing some research beforehand to know exactly where you want to go!

On any given day, you can find people hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming, and more. Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail is a hotspot for all outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, making it a must visit for Austin runners!

Hours & Location

?EVERY DAY | 5AM–10PM

?3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704

WEBSITE

Shoal Creek Greenbelt

? @hikeaustin

This 5.3 mile out and back trail meanders along a creek under a canopy of old oak trees, offering Austinites a gorgeous view on their run. Shoal Creek Greenbelt is a ribbon of a park spanning nearly 81 acres in the heart of Austin. Despite being near downtown, the trail offers an oasis from the bustle of the city.

Run through Pease Park and Duncan Park, then end up at a small rocky canyon near the trail’s northern end. All skill levels will love this trail, with the surfaces varying from concrete to crushed gravel and compacted dirt. As Austin’s oldest trail, it’s definitely one of our favorite running trails in Austin!

Hours & Location

?OPEN 24 HOURS

?2600 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78705

WEBSITE

Turkey Creek Trail

? @vizwhizz_austin

Adjacent to one of the city’s largest and most picturesque parks, Emma Long Park, Turkey Creek Trail offers runners a shorter, more scenic route. The trail is a 2.5 mile loop that crosses over a creek several times and passes lovely limestone cliffs. Plus, If you’re looking for a longer trip, there are several trails at the back that add more exploring and mileage!

There are signs along the trail to keep you on track, but at some of the creek crossings, it becomes difficult to find the trail again, so it may be helpful to have a copy of the trail map!

Hours & Location

?n/a

?1401-1711 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730

WEBSITE

Explore More Around Austin

These running trails in Austin are some of the best in Texas, with beautiful scenery and multiple options for all types of runners! After your run, check out the Stuff to Do in Austin City Guide page and let us know what you want to see next!

Be sure to also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok and tag us in your photos @StuffToDoInAustin! Make sure to enter your info above to subscribe for more Austin content.

5 Running Trails in Austin That Will Help You Change Up the Scenery

Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail

Riverplace Nature Trail

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail

Shoal Creek Greenbelt

Turkey Creek Trail

Explore More Around Austin

Follow us

Curated by

Abby Hopkins

See you soon 👋

It’s better in the app

5 Running Trails in Austin That Will Help You Change Up the Scenery

Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail

Riverplace Nature Trail

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail

Shoal Creek Greenbelt

Turkey Creek Trail

Explore More Around Austin

Follow us

Curated by

Abby Hopkins