Craving a bit of nature but don’t want to break a sweat? You don’t have to set aside an entire day to hike Austin’s amazing trails. This city is full of quick and breezy paths. These 8 low-key hikes around Austin are some of the best hikes in Austin and have amazing payoffs. So if you sometimes find yourself searching for “cool hiking trails near me,” be sure to save this article. And then check out each of these hikes!

1. Lost Creek Trail
Lost Creek Boulevard, Lost Creek Blvd, Austin, TX, USA
Tracy S./Foursquare
This breezy 1 mile hike will lead you along a gravel path to a magnificent swimming hole. The terrain is flat and easily walkable. When you reach the end of the path, you'll want to kick off your shoes and wade in the water. To access this trail, head over to 2699-2505 Lost Creek Blvd. This is one of the most kid-friendly hikes around Austin, so read more about Lost Creek Trail, and then take the whole family there.
2. Commons Ford Waterfall Trail
614 N Commons Ford Rd, Austin, TX 78733, USA
Lisa Van Akin/All Trails
This 2.5 mile loop is perfect for all skill levels. Cool, shady trees will protect you from the sun as you stroll through the easy-to-follow trail. Along the way, you'll come across a rippling waterfall and serene pond. Drive to 614 N Commons Ford Rd and explore it for yourself! This is truly one of the most scenic hikes in Austin, so learn more about Commons Ford Waterfall Trail, and then plan your next visit there.
3. Blunn Creek Greenbelt Trail
1500 Alameda Dr, Austin, TX 78704, USA
Christy Lasalle/All Trails
This one-mile loop will fly by in a flash, making it the perfect length for families with young ones. This effortless walk isn't heavily trafficked, so you are likely to have the whole place to yourself! Relax in the peace and quiet at Little Stacy Park. To find the trailhead, go to 1500 Alameda Dr. Plan your trip by reading more about Blunn Creek Greenbelt Trail.
4. Great Hills Park Trail
10801 Sierra Oaks, Austin, TX 78759, USA
Christopher Jones/All Trails
Great Hills Park is a blissful 2.3 mile trail in Northwest Austin. You'll walk along a tranquil creek and lush greenbelt. Because the path is mostly flat, this hike won't make you work up too much of a sweat. To access the entrance, go to 10801 Sierra Oaks. Learn more about Great Hills Park Trail, then go check it out!

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5. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Evan Ferguson/All Trails
Hike as much or as little of this 2.5 mile trail as you like; you're certain to enjoy the view. These scenic pathways overlook 227 acres of untouched nature. And the best part? These jaw-dropping views won't cost you a single cent. You can find the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve at 805 North Capital of Texas Highway. It's definitely one of the best hikes in Austin. To learn more about Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, be sure to read the article and then pay it a visit.
6. Zilker Nature Preserve
Zilker Nature Preserve Trail, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Lars Plougmann/Flickr
The Zilker Nature Preserve sits inside The Austin Nature and Science Center at 2389 Stratford Dr, and it's full of wonders. This preserve has two easy hikes to explore. Venture to the top of the overlook and stare at the glistening city skyline. Below, you can follow a path to the dry creek bed. Children love playing in the shade and throwing stones into the creek. Plan your visit by learning more about the Zilker Nature Preserve.
7. Walnut Creek Trail
Walnut Creek Trail, Austin, TX, USA
JP Lewis/All Trails
This 1.3 mile loop is a bit more challenging, but it's absolutely worth it. The rustic terrain will take you past a glittering blue creek and vibrantly green trees. For directions to this trail, read this map.
8. Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail
Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX, USA
Tori Anders/All Trails
This lightly trafficked 3 mile loop will melt away your worries. You'll walk past some supremely gorgeous sights. Rushing waters, fresh air, and peaceful atmosphere await. When you finish your hike, dip your bare feet in the cool river! Be sure to first check out directions to the Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail.

These are some of the best hikes in Austin that are low-key and great for hikers of all levels. Be sure to check them all out! But, if you’re a bit more experienced or looking for more of a challenge, then this little known nature trail is for you.

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More to Explore

best hikes in Austin

Jessica Bohl | April 21, 2022

What are some scenic hikes in Austin?

There are some amazing hikes in and around Austin that offer some pretty spectacular scenery and views. So hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers have no trouble finding a number of great trails that are also incredibly photo-worthy. If you love wildflowers, you will want to check out Slaughter Creek Trail Loop in south Austin. In the spring, the surrounding fields are afire with colorful blooms. Learn more about Slaughter Creek Trail, then grab your camera and pay it a visit.

What are some kid-friendly hikes around Austin?

If you’re in the Austin area and have kids, you will absolutely want to head over to the Rock Shelter Trail at McKinney Falls State Park. This trail is under 1 mile, but is chock full of things the kids will love. Walk over a wooden bridge, take a peek in a mysterious cave, check out cool white rocks, and enjoy a lovely waterfall. Read about more kid-friendly hikes around Austin, then grab the whole family and enjoy a day on the trails.

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