5 Best {Walking and Biking Trails}
Follow the Path
Words by Sam Lauron
The Eastside may be known for many things, like a diverse food scene, a thriving artist community, and streets rich with history, but a lesser known fact is that East Austin is home to a handful of prime trails ideal for walking and biking. If you’ve been on the search for the best hike-and-bike trails in Austin, look no further than these five.
Boggy Creek Greenbelt
With just under 50 acres worth of greenery to walk, run, bike, and hike around, Boggy Creek Greenbelt offers plenty of wide open recreational space. The greenbelt spans the area around East 12th Street across from Downs Mabson Fields and extends all the way to the intersection of Webberville Road and Northwestern Avenue. Hikers will find many pockets to explore along the way with optimal spots for taking in the scenery or even enjoying a picnic.
1114 Nile St.
Country Club Creek Trail
Part natural surface and part sidewalk, the Country Club Creek Trail is perfect for running or biking. Access to the trail can be found along South Pleasant Valley, through the Country Club Creek Greenbelt, or at the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park. Once you’ve completed your run or bike ride, spend some time at the park enjoying its playgrounds, sports fields, and a disc golf course.
400 Grove Blvd.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and Boardwalk
The addition of the boardwalk to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail was a game changer for this recreational area. Hop on the boardwalk on foot or wheels—either way offers plenty of exercise—and make your way across the water. Stop at one of the seven viewing areas to take in the scenic water views, passing kayakers, and the downtown skyline. If you choose to do the entire trail, enter on South Lakeshore Boulevard and wander all the way around to the tree-lined path off Riverside Drive.
1820 S. Lakeshore Blvd.
Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary Trail
While the walking trail here is short, the seclusion and proximity to water make up for it by creating a tranquil scenery worth exploring. As the name suggests, this area welcomes wildlife of all types, including birds and wetland creatures. If you’re interested in learning more about the local wildlife, then a visit to the Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary Trail is worth adding to the weekend agenda.
5827 Levander Loop
Mueller Lake Park
Planning a family outing? Go for a leisurely stroll at Mueller Lake Park. Centrally located in the Mueller retail district, the park features a 6.5-acre lake, a playscape, plenty of spots to rest and relax, and 30 acres of community greenspace. With trails that extend beyond the Mueller neighborhood and connect to local parks like Bartholomew and Patterson, the parks around Mueller offer plenty of outdoor opportunities for the whole family (dogs included).
4550 Mueller Blvd.
