Let’s be honest. Everyone knows about Lady Bird Lake, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and the Hike and Bike Trail. They’re Austin icons, and rightfully so. These spots show up on nearly every list of the best hiking trails in Austin. If you’ve lived here longer than a weekend, you’ve probably walked them, biked them, or shared them on your feed.

But when you live in North ATX, especially at The Upland, sometimes you want something a little closer to home. Maybe you’re squeezing in a morning walk before work, letting the dog burn off some energy after dinner, or looking for a spot where the kids can run and play while you catch your breath.

This guide is for locals who want more than just the tourist checkboxes. We’re covering the best walking trails in Austin, Texas, including the most popular spots and some of the lesser-known neighborhood gems. Whether you’re out with your fur-baby, taking a family stroll, or just clearing your head, these walking trails in North Austin make it easy to “live it up” without the traffic.

The Big Three (Because We’d Be Wrong Not to Mention Them)

You’ll find these on every list of the best hiking trails in Austin. They’re great for a weekend trip, and they’re always worth visiting at least once.

Barton Creek Greenbelt (7.2 mi from The Upland)

Barton Creek Greenbelt is kind of a rite of passage for Austinites. It’s where we go to hike, cool off in the water, or just hang out under the trees when the weather’s great. Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls are the go-to spots, but there is plenty more trail to keep exploring if you want to get away from the tourists. Just know it fills up fast on weekends, so locals usually try to hit it early in the morning or wait for a weekday. It’s a great place for active dogs and people who don’t mind getting a little dusty.

Shoal Creek Trail (10.5 mi from The Upland)

Shoal Creek is perfect for people who want something scenic without having to drive too far. It winds through some of the city’s most walkable green space and is lined with old trees and pocket parks. It’s not as flashy as some of the other hiking trails in Austin, but it’s a solid pick for an after-work walk or a peaceful place to take the dog.

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (11 mi from The Upland)

If you’ve lived in Austin for any length of time, you’ve probably spent time on the trail around Lady Bird Lake. It’s about ten miles all the way around, and it’s hands-down one of the most scenic places in the city. You’ve got skyline views, calm water, plenty of shade, and a mix of boardwalk and dirt path that keeps things interesting without ever being tough on your knees.
It’s flat and easy, which is why you’ll see just about everyone out there—joggers, parents with strollers, cyclists, and folks walking their dogs with iced coffee in hand. There’s always something going on, but it never feels too crowded. And if you’re down there around sunset, swing by the South Congress Bridge. Watching the bats fly out is one of those weird little traditions we all do that make this city feel like home.

These three are definitely some of the most popular walking trails Austin, TX has to offer. But they’re also a bit of a drive from the Upland (about twenty-five minutes away) and often crowded. Let’s talk about some of the other local gems you may not have heard of yet. 

The Best Walking Trails in North Austin You Don’t Know About Yet

These trails are close to The Upland, super easy to access, and offer something special for everyone! Though these trails may not make the headlines, they are quietly some of our favorite walking trails North Austin has to offer for everyday living.

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park (0.9 mi from The Upland)

If you live at The Upland, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is basically your backyard. It’s one of those places you can visit again and again without getting bored. The park has over 15 miles of trails that twist through shaded woods, open fields, and along a rocky creek that’s perfect for curious pups who love to splash around. There’s a huge off-leash area where dogs can run free, and the vibe is always relaxed and friendly.

It’s also a win for families—there are picnic tables, playgrounds, and trails long enough to burn off some energy without feeling like a full-on hike. Whether you’re walking solo, bringing the kids, or letting your dog lead the way, Walnut Creek feels like one of Austin’s best-kept secrets.

• Trail Type: Natural surface, with elevation and varied terrain
• Why it’s a favorite: Off-leash dog zones, wide trail variety, and beautiful shade
• Scenic highlight: Limestone bluffs, wooded groves, and peaceful forest paths

Copperfield Nature Trail & Park (1.3 mi from The Upland)

Copperfield isn’t flashy, and that’s exactly why people love it. Tucked into a quiet North Austin neighborhood just minutes from The Upland, this trail is simple, peaceful, and perfect for a casual stroll. It loops through shady trees and open green space, with just enough distance to clear your head or give your pup a solid walk without overdoing it.
The path is paved and flat, which makes it a favorite for families with strollers or anyone looking for an easy, no-stress walk. You’ll see neighbors out walking dogs, kids on scooters, and plenty of friendly waves as you go. It may not be a “bucket list” trail, but for everyday walks close to home, Copperfield hits the mark.

• Trail Type: Paved, flat, and stroller-friendly
• Why it’s a favorite: Quick access, low foot traffic, and peaceful neighborhood setting
• Scenic highlight: Shaded loops with quiet greenery and a relaxed, local feel

Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms Trails (2.7 mi from The Upland)

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Pioneer Farms has you covered. Just a few miles from The Upland, this working history farm offers walking trails that wind through wide-open fields, old barns, and clusters of native trees. It’s not your typical hiking spot, but that’s part of the charm. The pace is slow, the scenery is rustic, and it feels like you’ve stepped into another time.

Kids love the space to roam and the chance to spot farm animals, and it’s a great place to walk your dog if you’re both in the mood for something more open and mellow. It’s the kind of spot you bring out-of-town guests when you want to show them a side of Austin they probably haven’t seen.

• Trail Type: Grass and gravel paths through open farmland
• Why it’s a favorite: Family-friendly setting with a unique Texas feel
• Scenic highlight: Historic barns, wide skies, and peaceful prairie surroundings

St. Edwards Greenbelt (4.5 mi from The Upland)

St. Edwards Greenbelt is one of those trails that feels like a little escape, even though you’re still in the city. Tucked along Bull Creek in Northwest Austin, this spot offers a quiet, scenic walk with the kind of natural beauty that sneaks up on you. The trail follows the creek through wooded areas, small waterfalls, and rocky outcrops, with enough twists and elevation changes to keep it interesting without wearing you out.

It’s a solid pick for dogs who love to sniff and explore, and for people who want something a little more peaceful than the bigger-name trails. You’ll see plenty of locals out here, especially in the early morning when the light filters through the trees and the water’s still cool.

• Trail Type: Natural surface with light elevation and creekside terrain
• Why it’s a favorite: Quieter alternative to Barton Creek with water access and shade
• Scenic highlight: Gentle waterfalls, limestone features, and shaded creek views

Great Hills Park Trail (5 mi from The Upland)

Great Hills Park is one of those neighborhood gems that a lot of people drive right past without realizing what’s tucked back there. But once you find it, you’ll want to keep going back. The trail winds through tree-covered hills, quiet creeks, and open grassy areas that feel miles away from the hustle of the city. It’s peaceful, low-key, and rarely crowded.
There’s a playground near the entrance, so it’s a great spot for families, and the mix of paved and gravel paths makes it easy to adjust your walk to fit your time or energy. Whether you’re out for a casual stroll or a bit of a workout, this trail gives you space to breathe and take in the quiet side of Austin.

• Trail Type: Combination of paved paths and natural gravel trails
• Why it’s a favorite: Great for families, peaceful hills, and a true neighborhood feel
• Scenic highlight: Shaded hilltop views, small creek crossings, and tucked-away green spaces

Turkey Creek Trail at Emma Long Park (7 mi from The Upland)

If you’ve got a dog and live in Austin, someone has probably told you about Turkey Creek. This trail is a favorite for pet owners who want to ditch the leash and let their pups explore. Just inside Emma Long Metropolitan Park, the trail follows a shaded creek bed through a thick canopy of trees, offering a quiet walk that feels more like an adventure than a chore.
The 2.7-mile loop crosses the creek multiple times, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. You’ll run into plenty of friendly dogs, weekend hikers, and local families who know this is one of the best spots in the city for an off-leash experience. It’s wild in the best way and always a good time.

• Trail Type: Dirt and rocky terrain with multiple shallow creek crossings
• Why it’s a favorite: One of the few true off-leash trails in Austin, great for dogs and nature lovers
• Scenic highlight: Wooded creek loop with shaded trails and water access throughout

Life at The Upland Means the Trails Are Always Close

Living at The Upland means you don’t have to drive across town just to enjoy the outdoors. Some of Austin’s best walking trails are right in your neighborhood. You can start your morning with a peaceful loop at Copperfield, head to Great Hills for a shaded stroll, or take your dog to roam freely at Turkey Creek. Each trail brings something unique, and all of them are close enough to become part of your weekly rhythm. That’s what makes life in North ATX feel so balanced. It’s easy to stay active, unwind after work, and enjoy everything this side of the city has to offer.

At The Upland, you don’t have to choose between convenience and connection to nature. You get both. With private patios, pet-friendly features, and easy access to local parks and trails, this is a place where you can truly live it up—both inside your home and out in the community.

Want to see it for yourself?

Now is the perfect time to make these trails part of your everyday life. At The Upland, nature fits seamlessly into your routine. From neighborhood walks to weekend hikes, North Austin gives you space to move, relax, and explore. Take a look at our floor plans, browse our amenities, or schedule a tour to see what life here feels like. Your next favorite trail might be just around the corner.