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Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 64 Google reviews · Running trail in Austin, Texas · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail'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.
Popular, riverside hiking & biking area boasting a 12.68-mile trail, scenic waterfalls & wildlife.
What runners say about Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
“Regardless of what path you take it will be scenic.”
Very nice and walkable trail. The views are really nice and relaxing. Good for a weekday after work even.
The greenbelt was one of my favorite activities when I lived in Austin. Now it's my #1 reason to go back. Love this place. There are some access trailheads. Dog fríendly. Perfect place for a hike, run, rock climbing and biking.
Tricky to find, but otherwise a lovely trail! Nice to walk alongside the creek and it wasn’t too crowded even on a Sunday afternoon. The path gets quite rocky though, so sturdy shoes are a must.
The trail has a main path and many side trails all along the creek. Most of the main trail is easy and some parts are moderate. If you explore some of the side trails you may encounter some rough going and in many cases will be considered hard. Regardless of what path you take it will be scenic.
Trail conditions & character
“Regardless of what path you take it will be scenic.”
“Plenty of dogs to watch play and enjoy themselves too.”
“The path gets quite rocky though, so sturdy shoes are a must.”
Plan your run at Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
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.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteaustintexas.gov
- Phone(512) 974-6700
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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.
The Terrace Hiking Trail
4.3 ★★★★☆ 54 reviews
Walkable trail for hiking, jogging, biking, dog walking and scenic views.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
4.7 ★★★★★ 4,508 reviews
This popular urban natural area offers opportunities for biking, hiking, swimming & rock climbing.
Twin Falls
4.4 ★★★★☆ 1,014 reviews
Greenbelt hiking area featuring waterfalls and a creek, plus swimming and a rope swing.
Central Williamson Creek Greenway
1 ★☆☆☆☆ 4 reviews
Roy and Ann Butler Hike and Bike Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 201 reviews
Scenic waterfront trail loop for hiking, running & cycling, with restrooms & drinking fountains.
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.