What’s Covered:
- Top running routes, tracks and trails in Austin
- Tips for running in Austin
- The Best Running Groups in Austin
Welcome to our Running Guide to Austin, where we highlight the best places to run in Austin, with a few tips on how to make the most of your run!
Austin is known for its outdoors - with multiple green belts, parks, and nature trails, you’re guaranteed to have a unique running experience every time. Whether you are new to running or a seasoned marathoner, there are great options for every level.
Don’t like running alone, or training for an upcoming race? Check out some of our favorite running groups in Austin here.
Our Favorite Running Trails in Austin
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
What it is: Barton Creek Greenbelt is a stretch of 7.25 miles starting from Ziker Memorial Park
Why it’s awesome: The lush green vegetation, swimming holes, and limestone cliffs make it one of the iconic running trails of Austin
What it’s great for: Both leisure walks and intensive runs alike!
Other Activities: You can also enjoy swimming, mountain biking, kayaking, and rock climbing
2. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
What it is: The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail spans 10 miles and lies on the shores of the popular Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin.
Why it is awesome: Being within the city limits makes it easily accessible and a great destination for both Austinites and tourists. The panoramic views of skylines, wildlife, and lush green parks make it the perfect getaway for nature lovers.
What it’s great for: It is a great track for runners, cyclists, and walkers as it is relatively flat and offers both paved surfaces and packed dirt.
Other Activities: Great cycling, also there are frequent concerts and other outdoor events.
3. McKinney Falls State Park
What it is: This trail is 641 acres of land covering meadows, forests, and the waters of Onion Creek.
Why it is awesome: Along with being a natural beauty, McKinney Falls State Park has a historical heritage with remnants of early Texas settlers and American artifacts.
What it’s great for: A good challenge! There are slight sloping inclines which makes these trails more moderate.
Other Activities: Great for hiking and mountain biking. It is also a venue for many outdoor activities — from fishing to bird spotting and camping.
4. Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail
What it is: It is a 5.5 mile trail along the banks of Shoal Creek situated in the heart of Austin.
Why it is awesome: Being an urban trail, it provides a view of the city landscape. Being within city boundaries makes it easily accessible.
What it’s great for: This trail is considered to be relatively easy owing to its flat, not-so-varied terrain.
Other Activities: Other than birding and road biking, this is also known for its serenity, offering a space to relax and unwind.
5. Southern Walnut Creek Trail
What it is: It is approximately 7.3 miles of trail extending from Govalle Park to the Walnut Creek Sports Park.
Why it is awesome: It is a scenic beauty within city limits, making it a fabulous location for a quick and easy escape into nature.
What it’s great for: Famous as a multi-use recreational trail, the Southern Walnut Creek Trail has gentle slopes and hills and much flat land ideal for walking, jogging, and running.
Other Activities: Many people also visit this place for picnicking, birdwatching, nature photography, and fishing.
6. Lady Bird Lake Trail
What it is: A 10-mile winding trail on both sides of the river made from mostly crushed granite.
Why it is awesome: The river view trail with pedestrian bridges, 2 public pools, and boathouses make this run trail unique. The 2+ mile boardwalk on the south side attracts a crowd, but it’s worth it!
What it’s great for: This is a fairly less difficult and low-grade trail making it perfect for leisurely walks and intense running alike.
Other Activities: Paddle boating, kayaking, and sunset bat watching are some other popular things to do here.
Tips for Trail Running in Austin
Austin is one of our favorite places for running - but you have to be mindful of the season!
- In summer, it can reach over 100℉, so going early morning or late evening is best.
- Remember to apply sunblock! Although most of these trails are shaded by trees, there are many open stretches that get full sun.
- These running trails have varying terrains. Be mindful of changing elevations. Adjust your speed and effort accordingly.
- Wear appropriate footwear. Running shoes or shoes for walking—select the right one for your activity.
- Join a running club or community! It makes it so much more fun to run, plus meet like-minded friends at the same time.
Running Groups in Austin
For thousands of Austinites, group running is a way of life. Whether they are training for the Austin Marathon or the Cap10K, or just casual weekly runs - there’s a running club for everyone.
Looking for a run? SweatPals has awesome running communities based in Austin.
Some of our favorites:
Looking to start a running club? Get in touch with SweatPals to set up your own running community with an all-in-one tool to set up events and manage and promote communities.
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