Get outside this spring.
By Kat Barclay
Exercise and Austinites go together like bread and butter. The same can be said for running and biking trails. With Austin’s lush landscape, lakes and seemingly perfect spring weather, it’s time to get outside and soak it all in.
Whether you’re training for a marathon or a triathlon, or just taking a casual stroll, lace up your sneakers and head to one or all of these favorite Austin trails.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
Spanning from MoPac Expressway to Pleasant Valley Road, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is recognized as one of Austin’s most popular recreational destinations. The trail is 10 miles long and runs alongside the river with a scenic view of downtown Austin. It also has several access points.
River Place Nature Trail
Located near Steiner Ranch and Four Points in Northwest Austin, River Place Nature Trail consists of not one, but three trails for a combined of 5.5 miles, including the Fern, Canyons and Panther Hollow trails.
Shoal Creek Trail
Short but sweet, Shoal Creek Trail, the city’s oldest public trail, is a one-way, 3-mile route right through the middle of Austin. The path begins on the bridge at First Street and runs through Pease Park, ending near 38th Street.
Slaughter Creek Preserve Trail
Located in Southwest Austin inside the beautiful Slaughter Creek Preserve, the 5-mile trail is hiking-, biking- and even horse-friendly. The loop is scenic, with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife to enjoy. Pro tip: The trail is not dog-friendly.
Brushy Creek Regional Trail
The Brushy Creek Regional Trail has two disconnected sections, totaling more than 10 miles, the 7-mile trail running from Twin Lakes Park to Hairy Man Road, and the shorter Brushy Creek East Trail, which runs from A.W. Grimes Boulevard to Forest Ridge Boulevard in Round Rock, Texas. There are parks within the trails, docks for fishing, plus canoeing and kayaking.