The Great Outdoors Austin Texas

The Great Outdoors: Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, delicious food, and thriving tech industry. But beyond the bustling downtown area, Austin is also home to a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you're looking to hike through scenic trails, kayak down a lazy river, or simply relax in a peaceful park, there's something for everyone in the great outdoors of Austin.

Zilker Park

Zilker Park is a sprawling 350-acre park located just southwest of downtown Austin. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including the Zilker Botanical Garden, the Zilker Hillside Theater, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Zilker Park is also a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and hiking. You can rent kayaks and canoes at the Zilker Park Boat Launch and paddle down Lady Bird Lake, or take a hike along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

Barton Creek Greenbelt

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a 7.5-mile hike-and-bike trail that follows the banks of Barton Creek. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it a great option for families with young children. Along the way, you'll pass by scenic waterfalls, swimming holes, and picnic areas. You can also take a detour to visit the Zilker Botanical Garden or the Austin Nature & Science Center.

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is a 10-mile-long reservoir located in the heart of Austin. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards at the Austin Rowing Club or the Zilker Park Boat Launch. You can also take a hike or bike ride along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which runs along the north shore of the lake.

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is a 641-acre park located just south of Austin. The park is home to a variety of natural attractions, including waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails. You can take a hike to the top of Onion Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park, or go for a swim in Onion Creek. McKinney Falls State Park is also a popular spot for camping and picnicking. You can reserve a campsite online or at the park's entrance.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a 5,212-acre park located northwest of Austin. The park is home to the Pedernales River, which flows through a series of waterfalls and pools. You can hike along the river, go for a swim, or fish for bass and catfish. Pedernales Falls State Park is also a popular spot for camping and picnicking. You can reserve a campsite online or at the park's entrance.