With this beautiful weather, countless running paths and scenic jogging routes, there’s really no need for a gym membership during Spring in Austin. Regular joggers may have all their favorite routes mapped out, but for those looking to get started or just to switch things up, here are a few favorites.

Whether you’re training for a marathon, catching up with your running buddies before brunch, or just want to capture that perfect Insta photo on your run, these are the spots you’re going to want to hit up.

    1. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. The 3.2-mile loop from the South First Bridge down to the Mopac Bridge is the best place for newbie runs or quick tune-ups. The trail also offers 7 and 10 miles loops for the more experienced.
    2. Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail. At just a little over three miles (6 for a round trip), this trail begins at Lady Bird Lake and winds down to 38th St. It’s less groomed than the Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike so be prepared to do some root and rock dodging along the way, but it definitely makes up for in peace and quiet.
    3. Brushy Creek Trail. A great gravel-paved trail located in the Avery Ranch area of Austin, TX. Running parallel to Brushy Creek and offering 2.5 miles one-way, Brushy Creek Trail offers adequate biking, running, and walking in a pet friendly atmosphere.
    4. Barton Creek Greenbelt. Beginning at Zilker Park, the trail leads southwest through 7.25 miles of dense foliage, limestone cliffs and various waterfalls through the greenbelt. It’s got plenty of mileage and routes throughout, so there’s always a new area to explore.
    5. McKinney Falls State Park. Packed full of breathtaking scenery, flowing waterfalls, and well-maintained trails for runners of all levels. The park provides several miles of terrain as well as several hundred feet in elevation gain.
    6. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park. Newbies and experienced runners alike love this spot for its ample shade, various routes, and creekside location. It’s also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your furry running partner.
    7. Slaughter Creek Trail. 5-mile loop of natural-surface trail for mountain biking, hiking and jogging. The trail is located near the Circle C neighborhood in southwest Austin is a loop nestled alongside wildlife and wildflowers in a prairie setting.
    8. Shoal Creek Trail. Follow alongside Shoal Creek through the heart of the city. The trail is 3.9 miles that follows the creek from 38th Street to Lady Bird Lake, providing a pathway for cyclists, walkers and runners.
    9. Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail. The main loop here is a short trail that is often busy with hikers, runners, kiddos, and leashed dogs. The elevation stays mostly the same, but you will have to cross small creeks after a rain.
    10. Travis Heights Neighborhood. Great option for steady running with no limit on mileage. The quiet and hilly residential streets are one of the best neighborhoods in town for running.

 

 

Whats is your favorite running spot in Austin?

 

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