The Hike and Bike Trail is a low-grade trail, most of which is wide enough to accommodate both cyclists and pedestrian traffic, making it a leisurely, enjoyable ride for cyclists, runners and families alike. Because the trail winds through downtown, there are access points and parking all along the route, making it easy to choose your distance, detours, and side trips, all in view of the Austin skyline. Whether you prefer to ride the trail’s entire 10-mile loop or take a shorter, more leisurely ride, we recommend taking the time to take a dip in either Barton Springs or Deep Eddy Pool, both of which are spring-fed pools on either side of Lady Bird Lake.

Butler Hike & Bike Trail. Credit to Jeff Djayasaputra.

About Austin's Hike & Bike Trail

All 10 miles of trail are well-maintained year-round, with amenities and stopping points along the way. You’ll find water fountains for both people and pups, foot showers, restroom facilities, shady groves, boat launches, and a pedestrian- and cyclist-only bridge that connects the trail over top of Lady Bird Lake. If you take on the full 10-mile trail, you’ll pass highlights like the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue at Auditorium Shores, the Statesman Bat Observation Center (where you can catch Austin's famous urban bat colony fly out at sunset from spring to fall) and the peaceful Festival Beach for a quick breather.

Otherwise, enjoy a shorter ride, taking on whatever section of trail you prefer. Pack a picnic and frisbee, and cycle to Zilker Park for a few hours of recreation at Austin’s most famous park, also home to Austin City Limits Music Festival. Or take a ride to Barton Springs and take a dip in its cool, spring-fed waters. There’s no shortage of ways to pass time along the Lady Bird Lake Trail.

Butler Hike & Bike Trail. Credit to Jeff Djayasaputra.

What to do on the Hike & Bike Trail

The Hike and Bike Trail is a great place for a leisurely ride or stroll. You can get several miles in without committing to a strenuous day or sacrificing scenery. The low grade, ease of access, safety features, and amenities make the trail a perfect place for families to spend days together. Lady Bird Lake Trail is also a great place for visitors, giving a visual introduction to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, whether looking for a spring-fed pool, a park, or a cozy spot to get your feet wet along the lake.

Due to Austin's temperate weather, it's likely that no matter what time of year you're on the trail, you'll notice people kayaking or paddleboarding out on the water. If you want to get out there too, check out our Guide to Paddling Lady Bird Lake. 

Accessibility

The trail is mostly flat and paved (crushed granite, concrete, boardwalk), with gentle grades under 8% the trail is mostly wheelchair-accessible. Visit the trail website for more details on accessibility, including where to find ADA-accessible entrances, rest areas, restrooms and drinking fountains.

Directions, Parking & Regulations

Use this interactive guide to find places to park along the trail, as well as where to find amenities like water fountains, restrooms, foot showers, public boat ramps, tree groves, and even ecological restoration sites. In addition to metered parking, there is also free parking along South Lakeshore Boulevard between Pleasant Valley and Riverside. The trail is open between 5 a.m. and midnight daily, with a mandatory curfew between the hours of 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Tips