Running & Cycling in Austin: Best Routes & Trails
Austin’s fitness culture rivals its music scene, and the city’s trail infrastructure supports one of the most active populations in Texas. From the iconic Lady Bird Lake loop to Hill Country cycling, here’s your guide to the best routes.
Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail encircling Lady Bird Lake is Austin’s most iconic running and cycling route. The full loop is approximately 10 miles and provides skyline views, river scenery, and access to some of Austin’s best neighborhoods. The trail is heavily used, particularly on weekends, but the experience of running along the water with the Austin skyline as backdrop makes it worth the crowds.
The Boardwalk section along the south shore completed the full loop and provides a stunning over-water experience. Runners typically favor the crushed granite sections for softer footing.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers over 12 miles of rugged trail running through Austin’s most beautiful natural corridor. The trails wind through limestone canyons past swimming holes and creek crossings. The terrain is rocky and technical in places, making it more appropriate for experienced trail runners. Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls are landmarks along the route.
Veloway
The Veloway is a 3.1-mile paved loop in south Austin dedicated exclusively to bicycles and inline skaters—no pedestrians allowed. The rolling terrain through Slaughter Creek Metropolitan Park provides a safe, car-free cycling environment. It’s particularly popular for time trials and high-intensity cycling workouts.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Walnut Creek in northeast Austin provides an extensive network of mountain biking and trail running paths. The trails range from beginner-friendly to technically challenging, and the park’s location serves an area of Austin with fewer trail options than the central and south sides.
Hill Country Cycling
Austin’s position at the edge of the Texas Hill Country opens excellent road cycling. Rides through Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and the ranch roads west of Austin provide rolling terrain, scenic views, and low traffic. The Cycling Church group ride on Sunday mornings is an Austin institution.
Lime Creek Road and Pace Bend Road near Lake Travis offer some of the most dramatic cycling terrain in central Texas.
Major Events
Austin hosts the Austin Marathon (February), Cap10K (one of the largest 10K races in Texas), and numerous trail running events in the Greenbelt. The cycling calendar includes the MS150 charity ride and organized group rides through local cycling clubs. The Driveway Series criterium races provide weekly racing.
Heat Management
Austin’s summer heat (June through September) is the primary challenge. Run or ride before 7 AM or after 7 PM during summer months. Carry extra water, know the signs of heat exhaustion, and adjust pace expectations. The Barton Creek Greenbelt provides shade but limited water access. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions.
Explore neighborhoods near Lady Bird Lake and the Greenbelt for the best trail-side living.