You don’t have to be an experienced hiker in order to enjoy the great outdoors in Austin. All you need is a full bottle of water and an eager sense of adventure. There’s no reason to stay inside when Austin is bursting with shady trails, refreshing waters, and jaw-dropping views. Get out there! Anyone in Austin can enjoy these ten outdoorsy things to do in Austin.
- Absorb the beauty of McKinney Falls State Park.
Andy/Flickr Take a stroll through scenic nature trails without ever leaving the city limits.
- Take a dip in the refreshing water at Hippie Hollow.
Matthew Rutledge/Flickr If bathing suits feel too stifling, you can always go skinny dipping. At Hippie Hollow, clothing is optional.
- Kayak across Lady Bird Lake.
Patrick/Flickr On beautiful sunny days, you’re sure to have lots of company.
- Cool off at Barton Springs Pool.
Randall Chancellor/Flickr The water stays at a crisp 68 degrees, so you’ll never worry about the heat weighing you down.
- Take some photos at the Zilker Botanical Garden.
Heather Cowper/Flickr Prehistoric plants, Japanese landscapes, and fragrant roses make for amazing pictures.
- Hike through the greenbelt to Sculpture Falls.
Alex Thomson/Flickr Pack some water, bring some friends, and lather up with sunscreen. This hike has a stunning reward.
- Let your imagination run wild at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum.
Phil Roeder/Flickr Dozens of Charles Umlauf’s bronze statues decorate this vibrant garden near Barton Springs.
- Watch the sun set from the top of Mount Bonnell.
Andy/Flickr You won’t find a more ravishing view.
- Escape from the city’s hustle and bustle at Bull Creek District Park.
Kent Wang/Flickr Less crowded and peacefully quiet, Bull Creek Park’s hiking trails will give you some much-needed relaxation.
- Enjoy a picnic among the water lilies at Mayfield Park.
Andy/Flickr Mayfield Park also has shady hiking trails, summer flowers, and stunning peacocks.
It’s so easy to find epic, outdoorsy things to do in Austin. Where are your favorite places?
Andy/Flickr
Take a stroll through scenic nature trails without ever leaving the city limits.
Matthew Rutledge/Flickr
If bathing suits feel too stifling, you can always go skinny dipping. At Hippie Hollow, clothing is optional.
Patrick/Flickr
On beautiful sunny days, you’re sure to have lots of company.
Randall Chancellor/Flickr
The water stays at a crisp 68 degrees, so you’ll never worry about the heat weighing you down.
Heather Cowper/Flickr
Prehistoric plants, Japanese landscapes, and fragrant roses make for amazing pictures.
Alex Thomson/Flickr
Pack some water, bring some friends, and lather up with sunscreen. This hike has a stunning reward.
Phil Roeder/Flickr
Dozens of Charles Umlauf’s bronze statues decorate this vibrant garden near Barton Springs.
You won’t find a more ravishing view.
Kent Wang/Flickr
Less crowded and peacefully quiet, Bull Creek Park’s hiking trails will give you some much-needed relaxation.
Mayfield Park also has shady hiking trails, summer flowers, and stunning peacocks.
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