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Barton Creek Greenbelt
4.7 ★★★★★ 4,508 Google reviews · Running trail in Austin, Texas · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Barton Creek Greenbelt's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This popular urban natural area offers opportunities for biking, hiking, swimming & rock climbing.
What runners say about Barton Creek Greenbelt
“Overall, it’s a beautiful and well-balanced trail—perfect for families looking for a bit of adventure, nature, and calm all in one place.”
“The trail had a nice mix of shade, rocky stretches, and creekside areas, with limestone walls that make it feel tucked away from the city.”
“I love how the atmosphere changes from peaceful creekside spots to that intense rocky climb at the end that always leaves my legs feeling like jelly.”
“Easy walking hike, lots of rocks and boring views for a while then see the creeks, beautiful and peaceful.”
“It is such a solid spot to just get lost in nature for a bit, especially if you have a dog that loves exploring the trails as much as you do.”
Nature filled, beautiful and sportive trail for all ages ! Mix of everything - trees, creek, waterfalls ! The multiple waterfalls on the trail are very refreshing. You may also walk on the rocks in the middle of the creek. The trail path is paved but rough for buggies and fancy shoes! Suitable only for walking.
Review of the Barton Creek Greenbelt (Mopac Access Trailhead) The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of Austin’s most treasured urban escapes, and the trail from the Mopac (Loop 1) parking area is a perfect way to experience it.
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.
Great Trail, and a great first trail for beginners and children. WARNING: Do not leave any of your valuable’s visible in your car. Unfortunately when I arrived back, there were several cars broken into, including mine.
Trail conditions & character
“Overall, it’s a beautiful and well-balanced trail—perfect for families looking for a bit of adventure, nature, and calm all in one place.”
“The trail had a nice mix of shade, rocky stretches, and creekside areas, with limestone walls that make it feel tucked away from the city.”
“Parking was not hard for me, but I would not leave anything visible in the car.”
“It is such a solid spot to just get lost in nature for a bit, especially if you have a dog that loves exploring the trails as much as you do.”
“I love how the atmosphere changes from peaceful creekside spots to that intense rocky climb at the end that always leaves my legs feeling like jelly.”
“I love how the atmosphere changes from peaceful creekside spots to that intense rocky climb at the end that always leaves my legs feeling like jelly.”
“The Stairway to the Gods The final stretch—affectionately known as the Stairway to the Gods—is a steep, rocky incline that hits just when you think you’re done.”
“In drier months like late summer, the falls can be bone dry, so check recent weather or water level reports if that’s a must-see.”
Plan your run at Barton Creek Greenbelt
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteaustinparks.org
- Phone(512) 974-6700
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–10 PM |
Running trails near Austin
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Twin Falls
4.4 ★★★★☆ 1,014 reviews
Greenbelt hiking area featuring waterfalls and a creek, plus swimming and a rope swing.
The Terrace Hiking Trail
4.3 ★★★★☆ 54 reviews
Walkable trail for hiking, jogging, biking, dog walking and scenic views.
Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
Popular, riverside hiking & biking area boasting a 12.68-mile trail, scenic waterfalls & wildlife.
Hill of Life
4.7 ★★★★★ 356 reviews
Popular trail along the Barton Creek greenbelt known for its two waterfalls, plus views of its namesake creek.
Westcreek Greenway
3.5 ★★★★☆ 2 reviews
Central Williamson Creek Greenway
1 ★☆☆☆☆ 4 reviews