Barton Creek Greenbelt

An oasis in an urban setting. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is known as the "crown jewel" of the city.  The trail represents all that is wonderful about Austin.  It is wild, with wooded trails, or rocky limestone cliffs, swimming holes, lush vegetation and home  for many indigenous species of flora and fauna, including at least seven endangered species  - located right in the heart of the city.  The greenbelt begins in Zilker Park and ends in Westlake's Lost Creek subdivision.  Take off on one the the trails and feel like you have left civilization behind in just a few minutes.

The Greenbelt is about 8 miles long and about 809 acres - owned by the city of Austin, and managed by the Parks and Recreation department. The Austin Parks web page has many details about this incredible natural treasure.

On foot, on a bike or in the water, Austin's warm weather make exploring the Barton Creek Greenbelt an adventure any time of year. Walk the wooded trails alone or with or with a canine companion.  Leash laws do apply. If you are looking for more of a challenge, climb the limestone walls and cliffs located throughout the greenbelt.  Mountain bikers find the Greenbelt’s diverse terrain challenging but worth it for the scenery alone. Austin's Bike Guide to Mountain Biking website has many great details and maps.

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is located in Southwest Austin and can be easily accessed off Loop 360.

Photo attribution/ Shawn Thomas/Flickr (Barton Creek Swimming)
Photo attribution/ivers.Flickr (Trails)