These 8 Gorgeous Waterfront Trails In Austin Are Perfect For A Summer Day

Austin can get brutally hot in the summer, but that doesn’t mean we have to stay indoors! Embrace this city’s supreme beauty and soak up the rays. When the sun beams too brightly, you can always take a dip in a refreshing river or rippling creek. These 8 gorgeous waterfront trails in Austin are perfect for a Summer day.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail sbmeaper1/Flickr The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is the most iconic path in the city. With 11 miles of gorgeous scenery, it's easy to see why it attracts 2.6 million visits a year. You can access this trail from 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd. and 900 W Riverside Dr. 2. The Bull Creek Greenbelt Elizabeth De La Cruz/All Trails



To learn more, read our feature article The Bull Creek Greenbelt is the perfect place to escape when you want to get away from it all. This lovely oasis stretches more than 11 miles, but there are several small trails that always dazzle. The Van Nynatten Memorial Trail is a breezy 3.72-mile trail that weaves past tranquil waters and shady trees. You can find the Bull Creek Greenbelt at 6701 Lakewood Dr.To learn more, read our feature article here 3. Red Bud Isle Trail Kimberly Warren/All Trails This half-mile trail is perfect for a quick pick-me-up. The shimmering Colorado River will melt away your worries and the vibrant trees will fill you with peace. This dog-friendly hike can be found at 3401 Redbud Trail. 4. Sculpture Falls at The Barton Creek Greenbelt Kelly Bolinger/Flickr



To learn more about The Barton Creek Greenbelt, read our feature article The Barton Creek Greenbelt is full of gorgeous gems, but nothing beats the rushing waters of Sculpture Falls. This refreshing creek sits on the south end of the greenbelt and can be accessed from the Scottish Woods Trailhead at 1710 Camp Craft Rd. This is one place you'll want to spend all day in.To learn more about The Barton Creek Greenbelt, read our feature article here 5. The Turkey Creek Trail Rob Watt/All Trails



Want to know more? Check out our feature article When you walk through The Turkey Creek Trail, you feel like you've escaped into a fairy tale. This relaxing getaway is completely removed from downtown Austin's noise and crowds. Running at only 2.5 miles long, The Turkey Creek Trail is the perfect length for a soothing afternoon stroll. This lovely pocket of nature can be found at Emma Long Metropolitan Park at 1600 City Park Rd.Want to know more? Check out our feature article here 6. McKinney Falls State Park McKinney Falls State Park/Facebook Onion Creek circles this magnificent state park, and the views are positively bewitching. In addition to the rushing waterfalls and quaint wildlife, McKinney Falls State Park is home to some fascinating historical ruins. Embark on the Homestead Trail and gape at Thomas F. McKinney's home from the 1800s. McKinney Falls State Park can be found at 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy. Adult entrance fees are $6/person. 7. The San Gabriel River Trail Melissa T./All Trails



To learn more about The San Gabriel River Trail and to access a map, read our feature article This little-known trail system is the ultimate summertime escape. Tucked away in Georgetown, The San Gabriel River Trail will lead you to four amazing springs. There's nothing better than splashing in this refreshing water.To learn more about The San Gabriel River Trail and to access a map, read our feature article here 8. Brushy Creek Trail Jeffrey W. Spencer/Flickr Cedar Park is home to otherworldly beauty. Brushy Creek Trail is 6.75 miles long, but it's slated to span more than 30 miles when renovations are complete. You'll want to watch the sun set here every night. To access the trail head, go to 3400 Brushy Creek Rd. in Cedar Park, Texas.

Where are you hiking this summer?