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Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704, United States
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Be
Review №1

Fun Bike Trail. Lots of rocks but not too hard to ride. On the other hand theyre a really cool hike and bike trail all throughout Austin thats so super easy.

Ba
Review №2

This is a really beautiful stretch of creek with many waterfalls and winding in and out of cliffs and flowing beneath Cyprus trees. The only problem is that it dries up toward the later months of summer.

Jo
Review №3

Awesome outdoor place with some boulders and tons sport climbing. Tons of awesome views and sick places.

Gr
Review №4

Pretty cool hiking area seemingly right off the highway.Parking was pretty easy, but this was at 10 am. It might get tougher the later it gets.Lots of people walking the path with lots of dogs.Very little signs so it can be easy to make a wrong turn but generally there are a good amount of people that seem to know where they are going so you can often just follow them.We went the day after it rained so some puddles/mud was there. Nothing we didn’t expect and easy to get around.Trail was mostly shaded

Wi
Review №5

Pretty area for a nice hike, saw a couple picking Holly, I even found some pequino peppers on the trail, they were red and green but very fiercely hot, my friend couldnt believe something so small sent him into so fiery pain!

Sa
Review №6

Great place to go hiking definitely the best in all of Austin in my opinion plus there’s plenty of spots to stop and get a little swim in to cool off. They’ve added a lot of walking trails and access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt which makes it super easy to hike it. What a beautiful please it’s funny because you can drive right over this area not even know it’s beneath you. My family and I love our hiking!

Ol
Review №7

Can get busy fast so arrive early. We arrived at 8 am and there were not many people. When we left around 11:45 the entire parking lot was full. Good shaded area for hiking with your pets or alone. The hike is very easy so anyone could do it. Nice place to visit within the city.

Jo
Review №8

Great trails for hiking and small boulders for bouldering. Stay six feet apart and stay safe

Mi
Review №9

Ive dragged countless people to Austins downtown Greenbelt and though people cry and complain endlessly before and at the beginning of the hike, they always, ALWAYS, love it at the end and vow to come back and bring others.I usually take Noobs on to thr spyglass entrance and hike the 2 miles to zilker park and the restaraunts and food trucks next to the park on Barton Springs. Its a great food/drink reward at the end. Stop by the Flats and climb up to the cave for beautiful views and gram pics... assuming you can find the secret path up.

Hi
Review №10

Great hiking place. The family had a great time playing in the outdoors.

Am
Review №11

So many trails so pretty. Weather is perfect! Expect seeing alot of other hikers

Je
Review №12

Still a great beautiful trail but the population growth has turned our green belt into a ant hill taking away from the expirence.

De
Review №13

I used to come here almost every weekend. Pity the transplants like to toss their garbage everywhere. Many times, Id hike to my *special place* only to find beer bottle & cans strewn along the little waterfall that runs down from...well, Im not telling where. People will just ruin it. And, I am the only person on Earth whos shot the little footbridge that used to be there.

Je
Review №14

I love going on walks here! Its different every time I go but always beautiful. There is easy parking right on the highway and the walk to the water is pretty short and easy. The water is not as deep as other areas further up but there is still a good flow there usually, plus its less crowded!

El
Review №15

First time here! So much to see. We did get a little lost but eventually found our way back up. Very beautiful place. Saw some trash. When I go back I’m bringing a bag. Remember what you pack in on the trail to pack out! ️

Gr
Review №16

Well cared for paths wind along Barton Creek bed. Even during the hot months when the creek is dry the trail is well shaded and pleasant. Bring water though-it still gets plenty hot.

Me
Review №17

Always love coming to the greenbelt once the weather gets warm. Just had my first real swim day on the season a few days ago. Water was a little low at The Flats but it was still clear and flowing. The water and sun felt amazing.

An
Review №18

My friends and I had so much fun hiking and climbing the rocks. We were able to hang out and social distance. I hadnt seen them or anyone in so long. The water was gone in most places. Ankle deep and some stagnant. The little dog had fun and there were a lot of cars but we barely saw anyone. We passed 2 groups and 2 individuals. One of the groups was rock climbing, it was really cool. It was good to get out and exercise. Its nice to know I can still do things even though I feel like quarentiene is making me soft.

Ja
Review №19

The best free thing to do Austin. Great place to walk, with friends, with dogs, or alone. Also a great place to swim when its warm. The water is fed by a natural spring, the water is clean and refreshing. A really beautiful and special place in Austin. Lots of really beautiful plants, trees and water features.

Da
Review №20

One of Austins gems for sure, we are a very fortunate city to have such beautiful landscapes and creeks just right at our city, each season has something different waiting for the trails visitors which can visit by foot or mountain bike. This is also a good place to bring your four legged friend for a good walk. In the summer you may find a dry creek with great rock formations while on rainy months a turquoise transparent creek provides a good place to get you feet wet or swim. Great for families, friends or solo adventurers. Do remember to bring a water bottle and lock and hide your belonging at your car.

Ma
Review №21

Brought @kokopellipackraft and @hikeaustin to Barton Creek Greenbelt where we will be launching Self-Guided Packraft Tours to explore new areas of the creek for the first time in Austin. Only at Greenbeltoutdoors.com

Na
Review №22

Took my sister hiking here and it was amazing! The trails are great, and there are several overlooks to take in the scenery. The river and small waterfalls are beautiful and the water is refreshing. Definitely recommend taking a hike here if youre visiting Austin, TX. I know I will be hiking here more often.

Ni
Review №23

I loved that the water was clear and there was a place to jump into the water. The jump was about 6 feet above the water and the water below was roughly 12 feet. There are also some small waterfalls that you can sit in as well as some rope swings to jump into the water. Theres plenty of places to set your stuff down and take a swim. I only wish there was no smoking allowed as people always had one lit. Definitely coming back here someday!!

gy
Review №24

Nice place for a long, but fairly flat hike. I went on a weekday in December at about noon and it was pretty empty. Decently peaceful, though you’ll have to go to about the mile and a half mark to completely get away from the traffic sounds of Mopac.Not much color nor water when I went, though I imagine the creek gets to be beautiful at the right time of the year.

Do
Review №25

I’ve spent more than a year climbing at the Greenbelt, namely Gus Fruh and Seismic wall. The Greenbelt is a gem for Austin - not only can a city have about half of Texas’ climbing routes in one place, but it’s also a miles-long hiking path for anyone to enjoy, which takes one from the outskirts of Austin right to the middle of it.Austin is putting sound investments into the Greenbelt, such as lengthening the hiking path and cleaning up worn down areas of the trail. With the Texas Climbers’ Coalition, they have helped push a modern ethics system that allows climbers to safely top rope without having to set up an anchor, using donated funds to replace damaged hardware.So I really do believe that Greenbelt is a great place, for now and the future!

Ro
Review №26

Lots of beautiful scenery, vegetation, and wildlife spanning broad landscapes. Pet friendly, and mostly easy hiking.

Je
Review №27

The trail was great and the trees kept it shady for the majority of the hike. Unfortunately the creek was bone dry, but it was fun to walk on the rocks where the creek normally flows. Definitely want to go back when the water is flowing as the pictures look amazing! Great for mountain bikers as well!

Ar
Review №28

Who can believe there is such a lush green space so close to the city! Definitely try hiking the trail when youre in Austin.

Pi
Review №29

Cool hiking areas, can jump off rope swings and waterfalls. Free. Dog friendly. All around a great outdoor find. (No longer a free experience thanks to those who couldnt take care of the land and the surrounding neighborhoods found a way to keep less people from enjoying it. $10 a person and $5 a dog now.)

Sn
Review №30

My favorite place for hiking and swimming. If you have a dog, bring your dog with you! Its so much fun!

Sa
Review №31

Do you like plants? This place is great for plants.No climbing though.

Ro
Review №32

Fabulous place for a hike or walk.

mi
Review №33

Trails with out end ... don’t get lost!The trail towards ladybird lake is well groomed and paved

Be
Review №34

Great spot to go for a little walk on the trails with nature! Its beautiful with a small creek in between the forested walkways. There are lots of flowers, and in the late spring/early summer theres enough water to swim in the creek! Tons of fun if youre looking for a free alternative to Barton Springs (or going if it happens to be closed!)

JI
Review №35

Beautiful, not difficult hike to the Creek. Lots of people on the weekend; all enjoying the sun and cool water. People in hammocks just relaxing. Its a great way to spent a beautiful day.

St
Review №36

Great place to relax. Nice place and great ambience.

Al
Review №37

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is awesome! It’s right in the city, yet it offers an escape into nature and allows you to explore a lot of the unique landscape of the Texas Hill Country. Each part of the trail is different, giving you various perspectives of the Barton Creek Valley. Some of the trails are rocky while others are normal gravel. There are plenty of stops by the water to check out rapids or waterfalls too. Also, the trail is mostly tree covered, so it’s a nice escape from the heat. It’s a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon, and it’s free. Go check it out if you’re in Austin!

Ab
Review №38

Been coming here since 2002. Never stop discovering new treats. Today we found a running spring with a waterfall, and the creek was bone dry.

Is
Review №39

Its a beautiful place to hike and swim. Lots of shade so youre not hiking in the sun unless youre walking the riverbeds. As of now all the riverbeds and swimming areas are dry but when the rainy season comes the place really comes alive

Bl
Review №40

Gorgeous and cool place. Im having a great time.

Za
Review №41

Truly one of Austin best placed gems. As full as it is you can always find parking and there is plenty to see. On some trails there are more people and other you will find peace and quite, but all parts of it are beautiful.

Er
Review №42

Beautiful trail. Gets pretty busy, but the further in you go, the less people you see! Water along the whole trail. Lots of rocky footing, but not bad at all. Does get muddy when it rains, but is still very manageable. Dogs are welcome and lots of trail go-ers take advantage of that, but seem respectable and clean after their pets. Waterfalls and swimming areas that are cool to take advantage of. Definitely a must spot to check out in Austin.

An
Review №43

Even tho the water level was very low...we continued hiking and was NOT disappointed

Ja
Review №44

This place was a little crowded for Memorial Day Weekend, but the amount of people present was still comfortable enough to enjoy our afternoon. I take Barton Creek for granted sometimes, but I’m hoping we can spend more time in the summer here. The greenery and areas with water are really neat.

Ma
Review №45

Arguably my favorite place to go in all of Austin. There are so many awesome swimming holes along the creek and it’s easy to find a nice quiet place to hang up a hammock and relax. Some of my favorite spots are Campbell’s Hole, Sculpture Falls, Twins Falls, and Gus Fruh. This is also a great place to bring your dog, and go for a hike!

Ms
Review №46

Such a beautiful and peaceful place to clear the mind and get out of the city. This place is very well kept and clean as well. Free spirited people gather here as well.

ge
Review №47

Fun place. Water was nice on a hot day however the hike to get there with small children was almost disastrous.Tons of rocks, big and small both in the water and on the trail.Low water allows for a pretty big jump off the waterfall into decently deep water.Goggles are pointless with a large amount of people due to all of the murk being stuff up from the bottom, and usually its pretty busy during the hotter months so youde probably be better off just leaving them in the car.If you have a problem keeping your footing in a normal place, you might want to consider water shoes because even the dry rocks here are slippery let alone the algae covered wet rocks.

Ju
Review №48

After a large storm, the green belt looks great and the water is nice and comfortable

N
Review №49

Great short hiking spot! On the trail, we encountered a young lady peacefully enjoy the woods while playing her guitar and singing, her little dog by her side. It was awesome.Barton springs pool looks amazing for swimming, we came to hike, but I definitely would love to go back someday! Perfect combination of nature with man-made amenities.

Ca
Review №50

I cant express how beautiful, and refreshing it is to spend memorial weekend 19 at Barton Springs. We had so much fun hanging out with different people from all over the state/country..the water was clear, the banks were clean hiking trails have different terrain, approximately 1 mile to the springs. Will definitely come back.

Le
Review №51

We spent two out of our 5 day trip to Austin here. My sister has lived in the Austin area for 4+ years and this is the first time we experience the Greenbelt. The water was perfect, the people were friendly (family friendly), the dogs were well-behaved (mostly) and it couldnt have been better. To quote our son, If this was the only reason we came down here, it was worth it. Can we come back again tomorrow?Tips: Chacos or underwater shoes are a must. No glass please, bring a bag(s) to recycle or collect your trash in. Clean up after yourself, dont forget the sunscreen and water to hydrate. Its no fun to be dehydrated.The second to last picture is a Greenbelt view from the cave, taken by Tim OConnor.

Ha
Review №52

One of the coolest trails close to downtown Austin. Very simple path full of spectacular sceneries. If you go all the way to the end of the trail you will see all kind of vegetations and some cute animals especially insects. Go there early morning if you don’t want to hit the crowd trail.

Br
Review №53

This is such a beautiful part of Austin. The creek is absolutely stunning when it is flowing, and if you take a dip, it is very refreshing, especially in the heat of the summer. In the off-season, it offers great hiking as well. The walks can be rather difficult, with inclines and rocky outcrops, so if you have little ones or are otherwise challenged, set a pace for yourself, because the scenery and experience are absolutely worth it.

Da
Review №54

Beautiful trail. Tends to get busy especially when the weather is nice.I parked at the Trailhead to Sculpture falls. Early in the day it wasnt very busy, but quickly fills up.The trail is rather steep. Be sure you are confident in your strength or have hiking/walking sticks. Its an enjoyable trail and the steep descent is part of the fun.Dont think the Cairn stones have any purpose to guide your path. People seem to just stack rocks.Sculpture Falls is a pretty location.Its very popular.The trail has a canopy over much of it from where I started.In glad the day was cooler as the beginning of the trail is in the sun and is very warm when you are there later in the day.

R
Review №55

Went a couple days after a big storm in the area and the water was flowing so beautifully. I saw waterfalls and wildflowers. I love how dog friendly everyone is at the green belt! A perfect free spring time destination for a walk through nature with your best friend.

Ma
Review №56

Twin Falls is one of my boys favorite spots to hike to after a few days of rain to bring the water levels up.

Pa
Review №57

We love to come here for rock climbing and hiking

Mi
Review №58

A nice place to walk. Beautiful rock formations. Dont forget to bring your wallet for a stop off at Taco Deli!

Za
Review №59

Not for the faint of heart or those wear of muddy trailing, but this is now my go to hiking venue. Amazing scenery. Just make sure to watch on your left for cyclists.

Nu
Review №60

ENJOYED this trail. Beautiful. Would love more signs and maps along the trails. Still open during “Shelter-in-place”, hours may vary, and social distancing is set in place. Hope this helps someone!

We
Review №61

This section of the trail (Gus Fruh) is easy to walk pretty much all way to the bottom of the hill. Go left and it is not for the faint of heart. Go right and its a lot easier but still has some tricky bits. Theres also a cave to the right a ways.

Pe
Review №62

Its a great place !!

Ma
Review №63

Amazing hiking place. Calm and lot of greenery all around. Its also great spot to go for a little walk on the trails with nature.The best part of Austin.

Mc
Review №64

Been in Austin for 3 years and finally made my way to this area for a hike/run. Definitely glad I did and will be returning more often. Quite vast and spacious than it appears on Google maps. Lots of shaded areas. Lots of entrances to many water spots for a nice swim or to get your feet wet. The first few miles in will seem like there is no water (I assume the beginning water ways fill after it rains) But keep trekking and you will soon smell/see the water. Lots of water areas to rest. So beautiful man. Hill of Life is quite rocky and steep if youre up for a challenge. The initial entrance is (off of Mopac Loop Highway) quite steep so be careful but it soon descends down to safer grounds. ATX living!

PI
Review №65

Be prepared to take a long hike. I dont recommend taking an ice chest. If you do make sure your able to carry over your shoulders. Water felt good and it was a nice environment.

TJ
Review №66

A good trail. Enjoyable for an out of towner. Put in the 360 entrance for a good start.

Pa
Review №67

So nice to have a quiet haven in this urban environment where you can get away from the hustle & bustle of work & city life. The nature & serenity allows a respite where you can reflect & find some serenity. The trails allow for hiking, running, or biking. You can go off the beaten path & explore nature, rock formations, water falls, the creek when rain permits. Definitely bring enough water & the right attire. Good shoes if youre going to climb or swimwear if youre getting in the water. Bug repellent is a good idea & just know you can get lost if youre not careful. Theres a lot of trails to go down. Go with others.

Re
Review №68

Lost Creek is one of the most exceptional places to enter Barton Creek Greenbelt. 1703 Bay Hill Drive - you can access it from this property!

Sc
Review №69

Just across the Colorado, this is a great hike. And not just a stroll on pavement like other hikes in Texas, youll be watching your feet as you walk through rocky areas. Its also rather exceptionally quiet (during the week, at least; its well traveled on weekends).

My
Review №70

Love this place,you can do hiking, camping, meditating here. Beautiful nature in Austin

Ja
Review №71

Serenity in the heart of the city. Hop off the path and walk up the dry creek bed for some beautiful cliffs.

Ka
Review №72

Little bit of a hike but its worth it! My dog has an amazing time exploring this cool part of Austin. It gets busy on the weekends but we still enjoy it!

MJ
Review №73

Greenbelt! Never fails to please. You can go every week and you will fall in love with something new. Enjoy! And, remember if you pack it in, pack it out. Keep Austin beautiful.

ch
Review №74

My favorite place to take my wife and dog to go hiking, swimming, or rock climbing! I enjoy mountain biking here as well the violet crown trail is challenging but rewarding for begginer riders and an overall great experience. My only fault with the place is how many college age kids use the area to use narcotics and misbehave during the summer but that crowd dies out around fall and stays gone until mid spring. I wish I saw a heavier law enforcement precense on the trails

Ir
Review №75

Gun to explore. Ware you good tennis shoes.

Ch
Review №76

40 miles of hikes, swimming holes and hangout spots!

Am
Review №77

We parked right off the road and it was a short walk in before we found a detailed map displaying the options of sights to see and trail distances. The park is expansive so if you are trying to look for a certain place, look it up before you park or you could end up with an hour hike. There are multiple parking places available. The paths are Rocky and muddy. Great for hiking and running dogs. Less ideal for those looking for an easy stroll. Very peaceful though!

Ja
Review №78

Such a nice and relaxing place to hang out when its hot out! Be sure to wear sandals at all times! Those rocks are killer. The rapids in may were fun, but they are a bit painful and risky to try to go down.

Do
Review №79

Always glorious but do not be one of THOSE PEOPLE who get heat exhaustion and call EMS because they did not take water. It is hot in the summer- 100 degrees + hot. Be smart. Beer is not adequate hydration in summer. Bring a gallon a water and have fun. There is a leash law- keep your dog on the leash to keep them safe as the trail has heavy Mountain bike traffic. You WILL get a hefty fine if the Rangers catch you with dog off leash, they patrol on bikes. Be cool- it is a safety issue for bikes and dogs.If you want to see raccoons in action wait until about 11 PM. They come out of the storm drains looking for snacks.

Mi
Review №80

Very good place to go for a good hike. There are different trails. Ive seen people running, walking, hiking, rock climbing and kayaking.It is good to come alone or with people. Theres always more people closer to the entrances. Dogs usually come here too.

Cl
Review №81

Summary: decent parking, lots of shade trees, beautiful limestone structures.ADVISORY: TRAILS ARE NOT STROLLER FRIENDLY

Mi
Review №82

First time in Texas. Wonderful park. Loved walking around for a couple hours.

Le
Review №83

Great place to hike!! Everyone was very nice here and the kayaking was excellent.

K
Review №84

Great hiking! Lovely people. Kinda crowded but over all very happy with trails.

Si
Review №85

Beautiful park, crowded so if you want a good swimming spot get there early!

A
Review №86

We love this place! Free, kid and dog friendly.

Br
Review №87

What a beautiful beautiful stretch of nature to hike by foot or bike. You can cool of in the river and bring a picnic basket and relax.

Da
Review №88

Austin is an amazing city, growing so fast the city and roads cant keep up.There is no real public transportation to most of the city. Traffic is everywhere. At the heart of this buzzing, growing city, the Barton Creek Greenbelt stands as a work of such visionary genius it seems to make up for everything else! Escape into woods and streams and rivers and dry creeks. Walk for miles - days if you like. Rock climb. Be in nature - its right through the heart of town. Central Park gets all the attention but the Barton Creek Greenbelt captures the real magic of beauty and power of nature. Take a trip there on a beautiful winter day (65 degrees and sunny). It may just change your life.

Mr
Review №89

This place was awesome the water was cold on a hot day, wasnt too busy if you get there early in the day parking was hard to find so you might have to walk a bit to get there the price wasnt bad either would definitely come back

Ma
Review №90

Best place to hike within Austin city limits, IMO that is.

Ni
Review №91

Beautiful just because definitely a must go.

Do
Review №92

Pleasant place to walk when the weather is cool.

Al
Review №93

A beautiful trail for hiking. I hike in and out, its about fourteen miles. My favorite spot in Austin. When it rains put on your waterproof shoes and come down here!

Ja
Review №94

Beautiful place to go hiking or hanging with friends by the falls or swim holes.

Le
Review №95

Great hiking through a metropolitan park with an abundance of natural history!

Ka
Review №96

Im was 9 yrs now Im 10 it a beautiful place the water is so clear and it so long it good for u can lose weight but dont bring anything heavy dogs are allowed

Ch
Review №97

Great workout! Would recommend to take a picture of the map, have your phone charged, and know where you’re going. Beautiful.

Rh
Review №98

A must for all who live and visit Austin! Your dogs will be so happy. Great time after a rain so you can swim and enjoy the waterfalls.

Ch
Review №99

My favorite greenbelt entrance. Do yourself a favor and go left at the fork coming down the hill of life. Youll eventually come to the stone bench, and the payoff is a truly awesome view of Barton Creek.Austin parks and rec keeps this place pretty immaculate, and people seem to respect it for the most part. You do get the occasional miscreant who thinks its ok to write something in Sharpie on the rocks. Dont be that guy. This place is a treasure.

Ma
Review №100

Amazing place! Easy/median hiking. Easy access.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704, United States
  • Site:https://austinparks.org/barton-creek-greenbelt/
  • Phone:+1 512-974-6700
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Hiking area
  • Park
Working hours
  • Monday:5am–10pm
  • Tuesday:5am–10pm
  • Wednesday:5am–10pm
  • Thursday:5am–10pm
  • Friday:5am–10pm
  • Saturday:5am–10pm
  • Sunday:5am–10pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:No
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:No
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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