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Bull Creek District Park

4.0 (72 reviews)

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River

If you love nature and wanna be alone chilling this the place to think about life , you see tadpoles fishes swimmings in the river plus sunny day just excellent good place to bring your family and dogs also good for hiking

Jennie K.

GROSS!!! This place is hella polluted, the water looks pretty filthy, there is trash everywhere and no one here seems to care much about nature. I would not recommend coming here. First thing I saw coming in was a warning advisory notifying the public of high bacterial levels detected and may cause illness. Contact with water is NOT recommended!

A beautiful evening in Bull Creek Park.
Katie H.

I love Bull Creek park. I love walking along the water, but almost never want to brave the crowds you get down by Town Lake and Barton Springs. This park feels like a little piece of nature tucked just outside of Austin, and without driving too far away. When the weather is dry, you can hike the stream bed easily and enjoy the rock formations created by years of moving water. In wetter weather, the falls gets moving a little more quickly and the trails can get pretty slick and muddy. However: it would be wonderful if there would either be some leash law enforcement or a change in the rules here. About half (or more) of the dogs we see are off leash, despite several explicit signs about this being a leashed park. I would love to let my dog romp around off leash in the water, but the point of leash laws is to ensure dog owners know what to expect and can manage safe dog introductions. Owners, just because you think your dog is friendly, doesn't mean letting your off-leash pup rush my on-leash pup is a good idea. If you bring your dog here, please be respectful of the leash laws for the safety of all dogs and people.

Car broken into
Alexia G.

I've been coming here since i was little, it's one of the safest, family friendly areas that i can comfortably hang out at.... until yesterday when my car and another family's car got broken into, belongings stolen, $1000's of dollars withdrawn from cards, broken windows etc. Apparently this has been happening a lot lately, so i wouldn't recommend it.

James W.

Not to impressed with this park. It is in a beautiful area and it's very sad that it hasn't been maintained as it has so much potential. There is two sides to the park. They do have an area to access some shallow water for swimming and a few tables to enjoy a shaded picnic.

My Strava route and elevation details for the route described in my review.
Eric J.

I am only reviewing the trails at the park and from the perspective of a trail-runner. This is a great place to introduce others to running trail. It's at a park many Austinites already know, yet most likely have no idea there are miles of trails just above where everyone normally gathers. The trails are a mixture of very runnable flat bits with lots of small to medium-sized rolling hills. There are also several more-challenging, short climbs that range from 80-100 feet. My typical loop there is a little under 5 miles with about 700ft of elevation gain. There are approximately 10 optional "out & backs" along my route to get almost exactly 1000ft of vert. What you'll want to do is cross the shallow part of the creek near the parking area where the volleyball nets and restrooms are. To the left, you should see the trailhead. About 50 feet from the trailhead, you will want to go in the general left direction and away from the creek and towards the hills. In 1/4 mile, hang a right at the trail marker and start heading up the steep hill along the barbed wire fence. This hill is called Treacherous and goes straight up 100ft in just a few hundred feet. Hang a left at the boulder at the top to start on the high trails. In just a few minutes the trail will veer to the right and go alongside and above 360 for a bit. Take note of the trail heading down on the left just before the veer, we'll be going down that as you wrap up the loop. Continue for 1/4 mile to the fork. You are now at the end of the stick on this lollipop trail. My loop now continues counter-clockwise and will take you back to this same spot later to double up on the lollipop stem and wrap things up. Take a right at the next fork in just a bit then an almost immediate left. If you want to check out the abandoned VW bus, take a right there first then come back to continue (it's just up 50ft or so.) Continue on the main trail for about 1 mile to another main fork where you will take a left. A right here is one of the many "out & backs" if you want extra gain, this is one of the more significant ones and will end on Valburn Dr. Chances are, any little side trail you see can be explored and for extra vert. Just come back down and continue on with the loop after each. After about another 3/4 mile (guessing) you will come to a split where I normally take the right for extra gain then a left a minute later after climbing the hill. Start heading down the steep portion and hang a quick right in just about 50ft. This is the entrance to the upcoming set of 24 downhill switchbacks (aka Slinky) which are super fun to bomb. Keep on for approximately 1/3 mile and I'll try my best to describe the next intersection. You will see a trail to the right, keep going just a bit and veer to the left. In just a very short bit you will hang a left (take note of trail on the right as you will come back to this spot and start this section again later.) In a minute or so you will start Slinky. Between the 5th and 6th switchback you will want to take the side trail taking you away from the switchbacks and off to another lite set of switchbacks within these. In 1/2 mile the trail will come to a T where you will hang a left, go downhill to a really great overlook above Inga's Trail and 360. I usually have a snack here and give my pup some treats and water. Backtrack up the hill and continue on, passing the trail entrances to the right, one of which you exited just earlier. At the top of this hill you should be back to the intersection that is the beginning of Slinky. This time bomb it all the way to the bottom, almost 1 mile. You should exit the wooded area and cross the retention pond/dam. Head up the little climb and in just a second you will be at the end of the lollipop stick I mentioned earlier. If you want to do another loop take a left. Otherwise, head to the right to wrap this up. Head all the way to the steep downhill side trail we noted much earlier in the directions (this is where I mentioned to veer right and run above 360.) Head down (be careful here, lots of loose rocks, roots and steep) and in just a minute you will be at the waterfall area where I usually have a quick dip. You will have to scramble down a bit here exiting the trail. You will need to come back to this spot if you decide to get in the water and hang a left to go in the general direction of where we initially crossed the creek to start this whole thing. 1/4 mile along the creek and you should be at ground zero. I'm thinking about continuing on with detailed route descriptions for all of the many trails I run. If this was helpful, please let me know and check out my other reviews.

Tammy O.

Nice park. Our first time here. We came when it was cold so we couldn't get in the water. But it's was a beautiful walk along the water. Looks like dogs really like this place. So it was cool to see that. We'll be back when the Texas weather heats up. Location is easy and convenient to get to. Parking is ample.

Justin O.

A very nice little park that's simple and just what nature intended. You can stay near the parking area and just enjoy the little waterfall and the cool clear water or you can go on an excursion and explore the area like Lewis and Clark. Worth stopping and just relaxing to the sounds of the water and birds for a little while. You can have fun wet or dry here, but if you want to really explore you will get a little wet.

Our friend's amazing tree climbing dog, Jackie
Sara K.

Are we in doggy heaven? I think so. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, dogs are playing and the water gurgles peacefully in the creek... Ahhh... Serenity Now. Dogs galore frequent this park running from one end to another and bounding through the creek. This place gets CROWDED when the weather is nice. I typically judge places by the crowd. For instance, if you're I'm in a new place and I don't know where to eat I search for the place with the longest line. I'm a true believer that the longer the line the better the food (typically). While Bull Creek doesn't have lines, except if you count parking, a ridiculous amount of canines and their human counterparts swarm this park - especially on the weekends. Therefore, if you, and/or dog, don't care for a busy park with lots of dogs and people, this might not be the place for you. Also, if you have an aggressive dog I would NOT recommend this place, or any off-leash crowded dog park, for you.

KLynn S.

Pretty good spot to bring your pup, although it wasn't very clearly marked as to where the trails were - we parked up in the nearby neighborhood to get to the creek area where our pup could play in the water off leash. Water was cool & clean - would recommend!

Stephanie A.

Great place to bring the dogs and the family. Trails around a running creek that has swimming holes tucked throughout it. Mossy rocks can be slippery and there are spots with not much water or water that I wouldn't let my dog swim in. But, for the most part, enough clean deep holes to swim in to have fun. We walk along the creek to ensure the dogs keep cool and all in all - always have fun spending the day here.

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Review Highlights - Bull Creek District Park

This is for Bull Creek trails moreso than Bull Creek Park, but I'll try to squeeze them both in.

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Pease Park - Check out this spot.

Pease Park

4.7(121 reviews)
6.3 miOld Enfield, Downtown

Pease Park is one of Austin's most beautiful parks. Full stop! It has been thoughtfully designed…read moreand enjoyable green space to frequent. Stretching along Shoal Creek, the park offers a mix of shaded walking and biking trails, open lawns, and beautifully restored natural areas. It is hard to believe when you are in the park that you are in the heart of central Austin. The park is especially family friendly, with a large playground, splash pad, treehouse style observation area, and plenty of seating. While we were at the park a school was hosting a picnic for its students. The northern portion of the park is even more quiet and scenic, with winding trails, limestone bluffs, and creek views. It's a great area for dog walks, leisurely strolls, picnics, workouts, or just relaxing under the trees. The park is well maintained and welcoming to all ages. This park is very special.

Such a gem of a park. Big, beautiful, and genuinely fun for all ages. The giant troll made from…read morenatural and recycled materials alone is worth the visit -- it's impressive and so unique. The stream nearby adds a peaceful touch, and the overall design of the park feels really intentional and creative. Kids will go crazy for the massive playground and all the interactive installations. The hanging net sphere is a must, you can lie inside and bounce around, and honestly the adults were just as into it as the little ones. There are also food vendors including ice cream, so you can easily spend a whole afternoon here. One of the most well-done parks I've been to. Highly recommend.

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Pease Park
Pease Park - Treehouse view from below, the walk way to upper level is on the left side.

Treehouse view from below, the walk way to upper level is on the left side.

Pease Park - Observation globe top view

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Observation globe top view

Barton Creek Greenbelt

Barton Creek Greenbelt

4.7(283 reviews)
8.6 mi

Oh how I love walking the Greenbelt! It feels like you can go for miles and miles. Well, you can as…read moreit's for nearly 12 miles of trails. Our little furry guy loves a jaunt on the trail in his stroller, especially if that means stopping off for a swim along the way. Can't beat cooling off in natural watering holes during a hot summer in Austin. The Barton Hills entrance gets you to Campbell's Hole while 360 gets you to Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls. I say do it all. Maybe not in one day...save something for the next time. Definitely a precious piece of Austin that we're so lucky to have.

Loved hiking here for the first time! We first parked at the 360 trailhead and were freaked out by…read moreall the broken glass and signs saying that it's a common smash and grab area. There were broken windows literally everywhere. The car was completely empty and we parked and started to enter, then decided to turn around because it just didn't feel right. We drove down to the other entrance on Spyglass near TacoDeli and felt much better. Residential area with street parking - perfect. We got on the trail and turned left which brought us to the new Violet Crown trailhead. We figured out how it connected to Barton Springs Pool. This was only 3 miles round trip. Next time we will go right past the falls. I am not sure there are even falls right now since it hasn't rained in a long time. The trail is easily marked and there were lots of people out. Can't wait to do more exploring soon!

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Barton Creek Greenbelt
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Barton Creek Greenbelt

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McKinney Falls State Park - Bluebonnets

McKinney Falls State Park

4.0(311 reviews)
13.3 miSoutheast Austin

When we first heard about McKinney Falls State Park we liked the photos and things to do there but…read morewere generally apprehensive about paying $6 just to go to a park and swim. However, after our time there we can confidently say it's one of the best ways you can spend a few bucks here in Austin. The park itself is in a bit more of a secluded area which is nice because you truly do feel away from things. As a heads up when paying at the entrance they only take card. If you're looking to use tap to pay or cash you have to go inside in order to make that payment. The visitors center is nice though with very helpful park rangers as well as merch, drinks, and maps for you to use. Once you drive to the upper falls parking it's just a short 5 minute walk over to the swimming hole. The walk is cool as you traverse over what looks and feels like moon rock. We chose the upper falls instead of the lower falls because we heard the water here is deeper and there are less kids around. It was definitely the right choice as the water was perfect for a hot day and parts of the swimming hole are definitely 10+ feet in depth. There are a lot of places around to set up blankets and there's multiple rock formations jutting out of the water in case you need a quick break once you're in the water. The coolest part of the swimming hole is the jump you can make off the rock ledge. It's about a 15-20 foot jump and people line up in order to get there. There's also some wildlife around the pool which is cool to see. As a note, they don't allow radios or drinking and everyone was pretty respectful of that. Whether you're a young group of friends looking for a nice swim getaway or a family looking for somewhere to unwind, McKinney State Falls is a great option to beat the heat. Just make sure to layer on some sunscreen.

I've been here several times and have explored it fairly extensively. The family-friendly trails…read moreare varied enough to keep the day interesting and the time spent at McKinney Falls is never wasted. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, crossing the river takes more thought to avoid getting your feet wet. I've usually found there are 2-3 paths at the river crossing, being careful not to slip on any rocks. The homestead beyond the crossing can be observed and appreciated, but it's off-limits to help preserve what's left. The backcountry trails total about 6 miles and it's usually just the right length for me to get a solid hike in. There is very little elevation change, though there can be a lot of mosquitos during the warmer months. I didn't find any benches to rest at and there is no water source to refill water bottles. Given that McKinney Falls is within Austin's city limits makes this state park a gem. There is also a large day-use area near the campgrounds with about 100 picnic tables and charcoal grills the last time I counted a few years ago. Parking is plenty and the rangers are friendly. Definitely either get there early or make online reservations to reserve a time slot to enter as the park can fill up fast over weekends or holidays. Their gift shop also has a variety of items for sale, and you can get a park passport stamp there too!

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McKinney Falls State Park - Newly engaged couple portraits by the falls

Newly engaged couple portraits by the falls

McKinney Falls State Park - EV charging

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Mount Bonnell - View at Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell

4.4(518 reviews)
3.4 mi

Mount Bonnell is one Austin's top tourist attractions. You climb about a hundred stone steps to…read morereach the top. You see folks coming down steps on the opposite side and your sense of what you might see at the top grows and grows. Alas, you reach the top. Was the climb worth it? Absolutely! When you reach the top, OMG the views are so spectacular! You cannot imagine how beautiful the views are until you actually see them. You see panoramic views of Lake Austin, multi-million residences on the lake and scenic view of Austin. One word...spectacular! We have been at Mt. Bonnell at sunrise and sunset and both views have something special to offer. Sunrise has peacefulness and light dances on Lake Austin. Sunset turns the overlook into connectiveness, where folks you met a few minutes ago or maybe not have met experience this quiet together as the sun retreats. While this location is quite popular, you still have vestiges of human life - graffiti on signage. Mount Bonnell has welcomed visitors since the 1800s and remains one of the city's oldest and most beloved natural landmarks. Austinites beam with pride regarding Mt. Bonnell

Mount Bonnell is a local gem, a perfect date spot or somewhere to just enjoy the sunset. It's a…read moreshort walk up the stairs (maybe about 100 steps) from the parking to the pagoda-like terrace that overlooks some very scenic homes and has an excellent view of sunrise and sunset. I never actually did the full hike, only just went up to enjoy the scenery. It's less than 15 minutes from major Austin eateries and local spots, so it's a true gem within the city area as opposed to some hikes that are 30 minutes or an hour away. No bathrooms or garbage bins here is the one downside. Take your trash with you!

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Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell

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Bull Creek District Park - parks - Updated May 2026

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