Austin is filled with places for kids: playgrounds, trampoline parks, museums, you name it. But if you’re looking for something more outdoorsy where they can enjoy nature, fresh air, natural views, and family time, hiking might just be the ticket!
Let’s take a look at the most popular and scenic kid-friendly hikes in the Austin area below:
Mayfield Nature Preserve
Where: 3505 W. 35th St.
The Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is one of the most beautiful places in Austin to spend some time with the family.
Besides the shaded trails, ponds, and gardens, you might cross paths with the fascinating peacocks!
The Lake Trail connects you to the grounds of Laguna Gloria. You can enjoy a picnic after the hike or relax with lake views.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Where: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
With 12 miles of total distance to explore, Barton Creek Greenbelt is a family favorite when it comes to hiking spots.
You will be surrounded by oak trees, greenery, wildflowers, and stunning views. Families love hiking here with kids as it’s only a one-mile journey.
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is filled with beautiful scenery anywhere you look and there are also many opportunities for outdoor recreation and fun activities!
Walnut Creek Trail
Where: Walnut Creek Trail Austin, TX, EE. UU.
This trail is a hidden gem in Austin for hiking with the family! It’s also dog-friendly so the entire squad can have a fun day outdoors surrounded by a woodland wonderland.
This will become your new favorite spot!
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Where: 4801 La Crosse Avenue
At The Wildflower Center, you can find five trail rails that range from a quarter mile to just over a mile and are usually accessible with a stroller and for little kids!
Needless to talk about all the natural beauty you’ll see during your hike, including butterflies and wildflowers. There’s also an adventure playground for the kids to enjoy!
McKinney Falls State Park
Where: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway
The perfect place to reconnect with nature and watch wildlife, McKinney Falls State Park is a must when you want to enjoy a kid-friendly trail.
This is actually one of the most scenic hikes in Austin and it’s home to almost 9 miles of trails! This has to be the next spot on your bucket list.
The Zilker Nature Preserve
Where: 301 Nature Center Dr, Austin, TX 78746
The Zilker Nature Preserve is still rather unknown, but it won’t disappoint you. You’ll enjoy an effortless hike with your kids and walk along colorful wildlife and a dry creek bed.
There’s the Austin Nature and Science Center right there to keep the fun going!
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Where: 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746
Another fairy-tale-like spot in Austin, Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is packed with jaw-dropping scenery that will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale.
The Preserve has six trails, some are almost half a mile and there’s the almost-two-mile Yaupon Loop, which takes you next to a fascinating waterfall!
Hamilton Pool Preserve Trail
Where: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd.
A calm hike will take you to a breathtaking waterfall and swimming hole, one of the most photographed sites in Central Texas!
This is for sure a place you will want to explore, even more with the kids who have a love for curiosity and new spots!
