Local Guides World
Top Nature preserves in Austin, United States
Top Rated Nature preserves in Austin
Top Reviewed Nature preserves in Austin
Barton Creek Greenbelt Trailhead
Zilker Nature Preserve
The Terrace Hiking Trail
Barton Creek Wilderness Park
Stillhouse Hollow Nature Preserve
Butterfly Garden
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Reviews
This was probably one of my favorite things that we did in Austin. We spent about 4 hours here and wondered around the whole property took some great photos and got some tea at the cafe. The flowers were in full bloom and a spectacular sight. I put this at the top of the list for Austin if you are an outdoors person. The staff was excellent and kind and the gardens were bright and beautiful.
Thank goodness we came on a cooler cloudy day to enjoy this peaceful garden.
All the volunteers are so welcoming and helpful here, from the gate greeters to the free tour guide. They are enthusiastic as well as informative, we learned how Lady Bird Johnson had the vision and gathered support for this beautiful garden.
Make sure to go up to the tower to look over the whole garden, it’s a very short walk up.
All the volunteers are so welcoming and helpful here, from the gate greeters to the free tour guide. They are enthusiastic as well as informative, we learned how Lady Bird Johnson had the vision and gathered support for this beautiful garden.
Make sure to go up to the tower to look over the whole garden, it’s a very short walk up.
What a darling Wildflower Center in Austin, TX. I went in April and there were lots of flowers blooming. Sweet, meandering paths through fields of flowers. There's a tower you can get a great view from. Lots of cool trees and plants. And a super blue water spring. And a nice gift shop. We got to see an owl roosting. Definitely check it out if you can.
Lovely spot to chill when it ain't too hot. Tons of native species attract tons of Fauna.
Very pretty place to come visit! It was $15 to enter and we bought the tickets online. We came on a Saturday around 11am and it was packed! We had to park several blocks away and walk over since the parking lots were completely full. Lots of pretty wildflowers and water features.
My final stop of the day and oh how I wished it had been my first. I had this idea in my head of a small little garden and was completely amazed by what I found instead! 😍 The intentionality given to the design of this vast expanse was so perfect in every way. The mix of beauty, serenity, education, delight, peace was everywhere. The stone arches along the entrance path. The lily pond and waterfall before you entered the main courtyard where the resident owl nests. The delightfully whimsical butterfly seats and waterfall you can go sit behind in a decorated cave. The play areas for children including a shaded sand area with all the tools needed to entertain. The main garden with areas alongside that buzzed with dozens of chunky bumblebees, The architecture of the various buildings and gathering spaces meant to stand out but also blend with nature. The Texas Hill country walking paths with educational placards about all the trees and plants. The shaded seating areas along these paths providing respite from the sun as well as delightful seat swings and trees unlike any I have ever seen. The green roof observation tower. The cafe with outside seating surrounded by gardens and the delightful gift shop. The outdoor library that looked like a merry-go-round including private benches. All of it...each new discovery perfect in its own special way. I wanted to wander enchanted forever. Sit in a tree swing seat and rock gently in the lovely breeze. Read a book in the meadow while the gazillions of butterflies danced around me. If you ever visit Austin in spring while the plethora of wildflowers are blooming ..go here... wander.... wonder.... breathe deeply...enjoy immensely. ♥️🏵️🌸🥀☀️😊♥️
It was the peak of the blue bonnet season, so it was BUSY. You may need to park further away and walk a few blocks during peak flower seasons. Staff were very helpful and around to help. The viewing tower was neat, although people with mobility issues may not be able to access it. Most paths are brick paved or gravel. If you are pale or burn easily, sunscreen WILL be necessary as there's not a ton of shade. Lots of pictures and opportunities. A free-play area and tree swings looked fun for kids. A great balance of views and informative plaques and a great way to get outside into nature.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin is an absolute gem, especially during the Bluebonnet season. As of our visit on April 9th, the blooms were breathtaking, offering a picturesque backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The center boasts stunning landscapes, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or an extended photo shoot. The charming stone tower and other architectural features add to its allure, creating a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.
The $15 entrance fee for adults is reasonable considering the wealth of experiences the center offers. Additionally, the availability of parking adds convenience to the visit, ensuring a hassle-free experience for guests. The amenities such as the cafe, gift shop, and auditorium further enhance the visit, providing opportunities for relaxation, souvenir shopping, and educational experiences.
Overall, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. With its stunning scenery, diverse flora, and convenient amenities, it promises a memorable experience that may warrant multiple visits to fully appreciate its charm.
The $15 entrance fee for adults is reasonable considering the wealth of experiences the center offers. Additionally, the availability of parking adds convenience to the visit, ensuring a hassle-free experience for guests. The amenities such as the cafe, gift shop, and auditorium further enhance the visit, providing opportunities for relaxation, souvenir shopping, and educational experiences.
Overall, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. With its stunning scenery, diverse flora, and convenient amenities, it promises a memorable experience that may warrant multiple visits to fully appreciate its charm.
Be prepared for an extraordinary hike!
This 1,000-acre urban oasis has over 12 miles of rugged terrain, mountain-biking & hiking trails, and creeks with swimming holes (although one of the two waterfalls has dried up because of lack of rain). Once you get to the second one, you're gonna want to take off your clothes and take a dip in the pool if you don't mind the algae and water-borne organisms.
Barton Creek Greenbelt also features amazing rock formations made of limestone for rock-climbing and bouldering. Although this is a family-friendly adventure, it's not for the faint of heart. Young kids will get tired, adults will be challenged, and the rest will be craving some happy hour afterwards.
This 1,000-acre urban oasis has over 12 miles of rugged terrain, mountain-biking & hiking trails, and creeks with swimming holes (although one of the two waterfalls has dried up because of lack of rain). Once you get to the second one, you're gonna want to take off your clothes and take a dip in the pool if you don't mind the algae and water-borne organisms.
Barton Creek Greenbelt also features amazing rock formations made of limestone for rock-climbing and bouldering. Although this is a family-friendly adventure, it's not for the faint of heart. Young kids will get tired, adults will be challenged, and the rest will be craving some happy hour afterwards.
Absolutely stunning! This place is incredible. Staff is super friendly and helpful, grounds are jaw dropping even in late February. Butterflies everywhere. There’s plenty to see and do including lots of energy spending activities for kids. Signage everywhere with lots of education about what you’re seeing. I really appreciated how walking friendly the paths were with lots of signage so you don’t get lost. I spend several hours here and will be back for more. Truly a jewel in Austin’s crown.
Absolutely love this place. Great for the amateur mycologist.
We found some interesting animals during our hike. Nice trail, not all flat so wear appropriate shoes. Take a trash bag, glove or grabber if you don't mind picking up a little. Since the water is down, the waterfall is minimal.
super cool place , enjoy the trail and it is quiet and you feel the fresh air and shades of trees
This is a great urban trail. It allows you to escape the city, it's tree covered, and you can soak in the river. The only downside is the first half mile or so the trail you can hear the interstate.
This is a beautiful hiking trail shared by bike riders and walkers. There were a lot of people on the trail. It was a cool day in late March. I would not want to do this walk in summer! About a mile in there is actually water in the creek and a place to swim and play in the water. I picked up three plastic bottles people had left behind and deposited them in the waste containers at the front of the park.
Sadly, vandals have spray painted gibberish over the beautiful rock faces on the large rock walls. This is nature - public space - vandalism should be prosecuted. I am not sure how the paint can be removed from this porous rock - but it’s sad to see such disrespect for nature and for our fellow humans.
Sadly, vandals have spray painted gibberish over the beautiful rock faces on the large rock walls. This is nature - public space - vandalism should be prosecuted. I am not sure how the paint can be removed from this porous rock - but it’s sad to see such disrespect for nature and for our fellow humans.
Nice hiking trail with plenty of shade. Not much water when I visited in October, but still nice to visit. Be careful not to leave any bags or items visible in your car. There are shattered glass everywhere.
the water quality may not be good, but it is very quiet and nice place to hide from noisy city-
Great place to walk/hike. Biking is better left for the advanced as there are some very rocky and steep parts. Watch out for snakes! Came across a coral snake.
Snakes are there though it's just water snakes beware of it. And it's good trekking place I feel it's better than turkey creek. But it's not very good to enjoy with ur buddies and water is there so if you are bringing your dogs it will enjoy a lot.
Unusual place. I was skeptical about it but I really loved it. Didn’t have time to stay there but I’d definitely be back.
I love coming to the twin and sculpture falls. Only thing is there is rarely any water anymore. If it pours you definitely want to go within the next two days. Weekdays typically aren't too bad when parking. On the weekends parking can go a long way. They built a bridge here which is also pretty cool to walk.
Great green space in the city. Can hear the freeway from pretty much the whole trail, except when it's drowned out by the falls. Trail is easy to walk (I'm in poor shape and was able to get to Sculpture Falls in flip flops). Lots of rocky parts to watch your footing, and exposed roots to avoid stepping on for the sake of the roots. Great to get into nature workout driving an hour out of town
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. is a nature preserve gifted to the city in the early 20th century. It became the city's first nature preserve and it's a good one. With parking nearby, it's just north of Zilker Park. The trails are rocky and a little steep for super little kids, but otherwise it's family-friendly. Cactus line the sides of some trails and one path leads to a lookout with stunning city views!
Texas Prairieland. A lake. Birds. A giant spider statue. We walk there often. Peaceful. Glad it's nearby.
Nice trail with amazing smells, it was like walking through a Christmas tree farm!
Amazing park to come and take a hike. Disconnect from reality and enjoy your time here. I need to visit during the summer to take a dive here in the beautiful water.
Always have such a wonderful hike on the greenbelt, but have had an alarming increase of disrespectful hikers that have been trashing the place. That's why I started a Facebook group called Project Clean Up Austin Trails. A group of us head out for a hike and pick up trash on our way out. Always such a joy and a place for mental clarity here. Great place to visit all year round.
I love this hiking trail. Its not one of the known trails so its less crowded.
Very short trail kind of raw looking nature
This is an area within the Greenway Belt park. Nice trails and some great garden ideas!
Great trail with mild elevation changes and access to refreshing water. I recommend making the trail in the evening on weekdays. as there are less people in general, but also the sunsets here are stunning. I also recommend a hammock - there are so many great spots to hang them and have a view while you rest. And if you don’t own one then a towel and water clothes are a must! Water depth varies, but most of the spots are for dipping and as you can see in the pics, one can enjoy stillness or the current.
Bring a flashlight if you plan to spend the evening there and always pick up after yourself. This place is medicine.
Bring a flashlight if you plan to spend the evening there and always pick up after yourself. This place is medicine.
The butterflies are seasonal, but the beauty is year round. The garden is littered with color at all times. In summer, I saw so many sunflowers and smaller red and purple flowers across the ground. There are lots of benches to sit on and trees to hang in. The installation art is fun and a nice anchor to the garden. Mueller Park is only a few minutes walk north of you'd like another great location to lounge and relax in.
It’s a good place for hiking and escape from the city. At few places water had dried up. But you need to go all the way to the end to find a natural pool which is very beautiful.
Such a beautiful park. When golden hour hits ya alrdy know that dem dslr or mirrorless cameras cming out. If not ur advanced phone works too. Definitely check this place out has a lot of cool random garden areas and also a lot of picnic tables to eat. Cute date spot and great place to walk yo dog
This is a spectacular trail when the winter blizzard jewelry came through in 2021. And how iconic it was to see the snow and the ice on the trails and I wasn't really a risk of slipping or tripping. nice to slide on it down the hills a little bit being exuhberated on a very scenic route and at the end is a little bit of a valley with trees and also if you're very careful there's some deer that come through here we loved it going here
My family and I went here the other day - our first visit since the winter storm a few weeks before. You can see signs of the freezing temperatures we had in the bushes which needed pruning and the cactii that wilted. This time of year the park remains quieter than usual, so this garden is still a great escape to recharge and relax.
What a great spot! A gem in Austin. Perfect spot to take your furry friends. I love the emerald green colored water 😍 it's a great spot to swim.
This hiking trail is a hidden gem! It's not very long, but (for me) it was quite a workout given how "rugged and steep" it was (the trail heads warn you about it). Lots of rocks and stairs to climb; lots of streams to cross (I was there when it was all dry), the trail never gets old because there's always something new. There are maps in place of trail markers which show you exactly where you are on the trail. There are also signs posted at every fork, pointing out the points of interest like the Mirror Pond or the Spanish Moss Forest. It's quite a bit of a hike to the Lookout Point. All you get to see is the skyline, but its a cool spot for pictures. This trail comes highly recommended from me!
My wife and I came here to do a day hike and we were not disappointed.
Visiting from out of state, Barton Creek was an incredible green belt reservation. We completed a 3 hour loop but stopped around halfway from the total length of the hike.
We visited in December and the river was dried up, which allowed us to walk right in the middle of it.
We also saw a dozen or more groups of people rock climbing across the various parts of the park.
The park itself seemed dog-friendly and there were lots of opportunity to bike across the terrain.
I also highly recommend stopping by Tacodeli across from the entrance of Barton Creek Park to enjoy some awesome tacos. I highly recommend the shrimp taco!
Visiting from out of state, Barton Creek was an incredible green belt reservation. We completed a 3 hour loop but stopped around halfway from the total length of the hike.
We visited in December and the river was dried up, which allowed us to walk right in the middle of it.
We also saw a dozen or more groups of people rock climbing across the various parts of the park.
The park itself seemed dog-friendly and there were lots of opportunity to bike across the terrain.
I also highly recommend stopping by Tacodeli across from the entrance of Barton Creek Park to enjoy some awesome tacos. I highly recommend the shrimp taco!
We visited in Christmas Day's afternoon. This place, located just 5 minutes away from Austin downtown, is truly a peaceful place with dry creek, fern cliff and variety of habitats. The trails were perfect for kids and easily followed by posts and maps. I would highly recommend this magical place for fossil picking, birding, foliage peeping or just simply get-away from urban living.
Quiet little park, excellent for walking dogs or light hike throughout. Lots of birds, saw herons, an owl and a hawk. Stepping stones across small lake are fun.plenty of benches and picnic tables. There's a rocket,. Small maze, nature trails and a giant hidden spider sculpture you have to walk the whole park to find. Hidden little secret park.
Quiet trail if you find a right time to visit. The viewpoint at the end of trail has been largely blocked by canopy. It should be a nice place to practice your binocular skill to spot warblers.
Very short, shaded, and paved pathway with a half dozen benches along the route makes it a good option for young toddlers and those with slight mobility impairments. The end of the trail finishes with a steeper slope and no hand rails, so avoid that portion based on your party's ability level.
Really nice getaway. Very calming to walk around. Super pretty area. Cost was $8 for non residents and $3 for res. Little gift shop w nice bathrooms. Excellent area for picture taking.
Fun beginning part for children that's very educational and relaxed, further nature walk is great for slightly older children and adults, plenty of paths to take and very scenic views. Wonderful preserve
Cool scenery but not too many things to do and the maps on the trail are impossible to read, but overall not too exciting of a hike
This review comes from Jan 2020. Of course the water holes are great for swimming. But also, in a "winter" month, this trail is still excellent to explore. We are able to see the stream bed completely bare. My daughter was able to collect shells. It is still gorgeous and in some areas there is water. I am curious as to why there is so much water during the summer to swim in, some locals might know. But it is one of the better if not the best I have found in the area.
One of my favorite hiking spots. I've only ever seen a handful of people on the trail. It's never too crowded and one of the best places to come and simply exhale. I come here about 3-4 times a year and it's perfection each time. It's even a good place for a hiking date. 😊
It was wonderful to walk through trials of the Zilkar park towards the Barton Springs. We spotted many turtles too. People can jog , walk, take dogs for walk and cycle too. We found kayak places too there. But kayaking is expensive here and also the lake is very narrow for the experience. I prefer kayaking near live love paddle at lady bird lake. There is lot of space and water is nice and shallow. But you have watch out for duck boat there.
It's a nice little trail tucked away in a neighborhood. It's paved and has a nice overlook at the bottom. Though when the trees are full you don't get a good look into the little ravine, but it's still nice. About .75 miles round trip.
Great free place to take the kids. Beautiful habitats, a small but nice animal rescue. There is a bobcat, gray fox, many different birds, and more. Also, an indoor area with everything from snakes to centipedes to tarantulas and turtles. Very educational and interesting to curious minds. Another indoor area has skeletons of various Texas native creatures, collections of bugs, beetles, butterflies and moths, as well as educational stations. Also there are geological samples and probably some things we didn't see. There are beautiful walking trails, with water teeming with animal life, and a trail packed with aviary habitat. This place is a real gem, and a must see especially for the kids.
Very boring hike. Saw a cool spider spinning a web tho
Had a great time being in nature. Great seeing the creek full after all the rain we've had.
Outside of Downtown / Easy Parking / Clean Trails / Great Day Trip Hike / Dog Friendly / Bring lots of Water / Variety of Trails
One of the best trails in Austin. There are room for parking. A fit circuit is good for running and biking. Very quiet, usually not many people.
Quiet little trail, spotted quite a few deer. Great little walk.