Running in Austin, TX: A Guide to the City's Best Trails and Tracks
Austin, Texas, is a popular destination for runners, and it’s easy to see why. An active and friendly community, diverse terrain, and mild winters and long summers make running in Austin a joy for trail trotters of all levels.
Add to that the wealth of gorgeous trails and scenic routes on offer such as the Lady Bird Lake Trail, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and the notable landmarks like Mount Bonnell and Zilker Park, and you’ve got some of the best places for trail and track running in the US right on your doorstep.
If that piqued your interest, read on for a more in-depth look at the benefits of running in Austin and our guide to the city’s best trails and tracks.
Benefits of Running in Austin
Austin's geography and climate provide tangible benefits for runners seeking varied and challenging landscapes for training. Whether you’re looking for tough mountain terrain or prefer to pound the pavements, there’s something for everyone.
In addition, because the Texas capital tends to have hot summers averaging from 92 to 97 degrees, it’s an excellent environment for heat conditioning and getting your marathon training on.
And if marathons are the reason you lace up your running shoes, then don’t forget the Austin Marathon and Half Marathon are annual events and cornerstone activities of the local running scene.
Winding its way across the city, the marathon route offers participants a tour of its iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, from downtown Austin, along the Colorado River, SoCo, historic Hyde Park and East Austin.
Running Clubs and Healthy Living in Austin
Of course, the city’s marathon isn’t the only way you can join with others to run in Austin.
The running community here is a cornerstone of the river city’s commitment to healthy living. These groups serve as social hubs, where fitness and camaraderie intersect.
Clubs such as the Austin Runners Club and Rogue Running, are known for their camaraderie and support, while events like the Austin Marathon and 3M Half Marathon showcase the city's love for endurance sports.
For visitors and locals alike, the Trail Conservancy (originally called the Trail Foundation) offers resources, voluntary opportunities, and support for trail protection and use.
This commitment to conserving the natural environment of Austin while creating community around this purpose is what makes the city—and the running trails—so special.
Some of the notable clubs in the city include:
Austin Runners Club (ARC)
Austin Runners Club is central to the city's running community. It offers exclusive benefits like race entry discounts and partner promotions. The ARC is inclusive, welcoming members from all corners of Austin irrespective of their running proficiency or age.
They organise weekly training runs and social events, maintaining an active presence in North, South, East and West Austin. Membership requirements include a waiver, ensuring all participants acknowledge the safety measures.
ATX Runners
ATX Runners stands out as a friendly and accommodating group within Austin's running scene. It schedules group runs multiple days a week to suit various schedules, emphasising fellowship and physical fitness. This group is ideal for those who enjoy running in a collective setting, offering a sense of belonging to both newfound and seasoned enthusiasts.
Other Notable Running Groups
Several other running clubs thrive in Austin, offering training runs across different paces and distances. They meet at various locations like The Rock at Town Lake and Shoal Creek Striders at Anderson Lane. Groups like A Ship of Fools and the Atreyu Running Group highlight Austin's varied landscape, providing routes that range from 3 to 10 miles. These clubs also place inclusivity front and centre, and aim to accommodate runners of all levels.
Austin Runner's Training and Programmes
The Texas capital also offers a variety of training programmes and groups that cater to different skill levels. From beginners to advanced runners, these programmes are designed to help individuals improve their fitness and prepare for events such as marathons.
Beginner to Advanced Training
For those new to running or looking to take their running to the next level, Austin Fit provides structured training plans for half marathons, full marathons, 5Ks, and 10Ks. Their approach is tailored to guide runners of all abilities through a progressive training schedule.
The Austin Runners Club is another resource offering affordable memberships and diverse training programmes for runners at various proficiency levels.
Additionally, runners with special needs can still get their sweat on and enjoy the great outdoors through clubs such as Kayleigh's Club.
Whether you want to join a club and run or volunteer to help the clubs do what they do best and organize programmes and events, there are opportunities for everyone.
Running in Austin for Women and Youth
Several running programmes also cater to the unique fitness and training needs of women, offering tailored coaching to help them achieve personal goals.
Others cater to the needs of young runners, promoting the joy of running and instilling lifelong healthy habits.
The focus for both is on building endurance, speed, and a positive attitude towards fitness and competition.
Running Events and the Distance Challenge Series
Austin provides a variety of running events, serving both individual distance runners and teams who enjoy relay-style challenges. The events range from traditional races to distinctive formats that highlight the city's eclectic character and engage the running community.
For instance, the Distance Challenge Series is a series of races for runners to test their endurance over several months. It includes events like the Daisy Dash 10K, the Decker Challenge Half Marathon, and the Run for the Water 10-Miler.
The series also offers the Virtual Option for broader participation. Competitors receive a fresh gerbera daisy at the end of the Daisy Dash.
Relay races in Austin provide a team-based running experience, with the Zilker Relays being a standout event.
The Best Scenic Trails and Tracks for Running in Austin
Running in Austin, Texas, gifts you with a diversity of gorgeous running routes, each boasting its distinctive features. Runners can experience the natural beauty of Central Texas along these paths, from lake-view flats to challenging elevations.
Our guide to some of the most iconic trails and tracks is as follows:
Lady Bird Lake Trail
Austin's Lady Bird Lake Trail is a jewel in the city’s urban landscape. Also known as the Roy and Ann Butler Hike and Bike Trail, this beautiful pathway, adjacent to downtown Austin Texas, circumnavigates the town lake and offers around 10 miles of smooth surface ideal for runners of all levels.
Featuring the scenic beauty of the Colorado River, the Lady Bird Trail is a top pick for runners. But with a stunning vista of the city skyline, this pleasant path is also popular with cyclists, while other outdoor activities enjoyed along Lady Bird Lake include walking, jogging, and kayaking on the water.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
For those seeking more natural terrain, the Barton Creek Greenbelt presents several miles of trails, ranging from the lushness of Twin Falls to the more arid stretches near Loop 360. Runners are advised that these trails offer not just a run, but also an exploration of Austin’s diverse ecosystems.
The Shoal Creek Hike & Bike Trail
The Shoal Creek Hike & Bike Trail in Austin is another main trail for runners seeking a blend of nature and city life. The trail winds through lush greenery and the tranquil waters of Shoal Creek, offering shaded paths, open green spaces, and picturesque bridges.
The trail's accessibility and proximity to downtown Austin make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
The Brushy Creek Regional Trail
The Brushy Creek Trail is one of the best places for runners who want an escape from the urban hustle.
Stretching alongside the picturesque Brushy Creek Lake, the route offers a winning combination of scenic beauty and well-designed paths allowing runners a challenging workout in a tranquil environment.
Furthermore, the well-maintained trail system accommodates various fitness levels, so even if you're the most accomplished of runners, you can still get your heart pumping on this trail.
Brushy Creek's accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere make it a favourite among local residents, mountain bikers, and lovers of trail running alike.
Forest Ridge Nature Preserve
Forest Ridge Nature Preserve is a hidden gem in Austin's trail running options, offering a secluded and peaceful atmosphere.
Runners can navigate through oak trees, enjoy the sunlight filtering through leaves and navigate through elevation changes and rocky terrain. The preserve offers a sense of solitude and connection to the natural landscapes of the Texas Hill Country.
Walnut Creek Park
In North Austin, Walnut Creek Park is a premier destination for those seeking either flat paved paths or more a rugged and immersive trail running experience. With numerous trail options ranging in difficulty, those who love to run in Austin can customize their experience.
Changing Elevations and Terrain: The Hill of Life & Decker Lake
Runners interested in challenging their elevation work will find suitable routes within Austin’s hilly topography. The Hill of Life is a notorious incline that daunts even seasoned athletes with its steep ascent and rocky path.
Those looking for a gradual change of elevation without sacrificing urban scenery might consider routes such as the Scenic Loop, Bypass 35th, which offers a mix of slopes and level grounds.
In East Austin, the terrain around Decker Lake is worth exploring for its variety and the potential for distance runs, in addition to the change in elevation that comes with escaping the city’s flatter central areas. Whether seeking intensity in their training or diversity in landscapes, runners will find Austin's terrain both inviting and challenging.
Final Words
As a top location for runners, it’s hard to beat Austin. From north to south, east to west, this city presents some of the best running routes in the county.
And though you may have to share with bike paths on some of your favourite tracks, this is just a testament to Austin's love of the outdoors. Because it's not just about the challenging trails and tracks and the awe-inspiring vistas. It's also about the great community and the commitment the Texas capital has to healthy living.
And what's not to love about that?!
