Welcome to Austin – one of America’s premier cycling destinations! Whether you’re a longtime local or a visitor looking to explore the city on two wheels, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best cycling experiences our city has to offer in 2025. From scenic urban trails to challenging hill country routes, Austin has something for every cyclist.
Why Austin is a Cyclist’s Paradise
Austin has earned its reputation as one of the best cycling cities in America for good reason. The city holds a prestigious gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation from the League of American Bicyclists and consistently ranks in top cycling city lists across national publications. Our city’s commitment to cycling infrastructure is evident in the expanding All Ages and Abilities (AAA) network, which now includes over 215 miles of bike lanes – with 100 miles added since 2018 – and is on track to reach 400 miles by the end of 2025.
Austin’s unique geography offers riders a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Within minutes, you can transition from downtown’s protected bike lanes to serene waterfront paths or challenging hill country climbs. Add in our mild year-round climate, diverse cycling community, and bike-friendly local businesses, and you’ve got all the ingredients for world-class riding.
Best Cycling Trails in Austin for 2025
For Casual Riders & Families
1. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake
This iconic 10-mile loop encircling downtown’s Lady Bird Lake stands as Austin’s most popular recreational destination. The trail offers stunning views of the Austin skyline while connecting many of the city’s most beloved landmarks. It’s Austin’s most popular recreational route, attracting health-conscious Austinites running, walking, biking, pushing strollers, and walking their dogs on its well-maintained paths.
Trail Highlights:
- 10-mile loop with various shorter options (3.1, 4, and 5-mile loops)
- Connects to Zilker Park, Barton Springs, and the Boardwalk
- Multiple access points and parking areas around the lake
- Water fountains for people and dogs, restrooms, and shaded areas
- Spectacular downtown views, especially from the Boardwalk section
The trail is particularly family-friendly, with its wide paths accommodating cyclists of all ages and abilities. For a perfect family outing, pack a picnic and plan a mid-ride stop at Zilker Park.
2. The Veloway at Circle C Ranch
The Veloway holds a special place in American cycling history as the first facility of its kind in the United States. This 3.1-mile (5K) paved loop was specifically designed for cyclists and inline skaters, with no pedestrians, skateboards, or unauthorized motorized vehicles allowed. This makes it an ideal venue for families with young cyclists who are still developing their skills and confidence.
Trail Highlights:
- 23-foot wide, one-way clockwise loop
- Pedestrian-free cycling environment
- Natural terrain with some gentle hills
- Open year-round from dawn to dusk
- Easy parking at the trailhead
For new riders, remember the Veloway etiquette: faster riders stay left, slower riders stay right, and always call out when passing.
3. Southern Walnut Creek Trail
For a nice, long ride almost entirely free from traffic, the Southern Walnut Creek Trail offers 8.7 miles (one-way) of curving, paved paths with a mix of shade and sun, minor elevation changes, and peaceful surroundings. According to AllTrails, this trail features 603 feet of elevation gain, making it a good option for cyclists looking for a bit more challenge without venturing into difficult terrain.
Trail Highlights:
- Nearly 9 miles of paved trail
- Minimal road crossings
- Connects multiple parks and green spaces
- Good mix of sun and shade
- Suitable for road bikes and hybrids
For Mountain Bikers & Adventure Seekers
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
Mountain bikers can zigzag beneath the limestone cliffs of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering some of the best urban off-road riding in Texas. Whether taking a mountain bike out to the Barton Creek Greenbelt or straying a bit further to Rocky Hill or Pace Bend, there’s plenty of room for fat tire adventures.
Trail Highlights:
- Miles of natural surface trails
- Challenging rocky terrain and creek crossings
- Limestone cliff views and swimming holes (seasonal)
- Multiple access points (Zilker Park, Spyglass, Loop 360)
- Close proximity to downtown
2. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
The two sections of the Walnut Creek Trail connect parks and shaded forests, making them a favorite among local cyclists. Walnut Creek offers over 15 miles of mountain biking trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to technical advanced routes.
Trail Highlights:
- Variety of trail difficulties from beginner to advanced
- Natural obstacles, including roots, rocks, and small drops
- Shaded riding under tree canopy
- Dedicated mountain biking areas
- Multiple trail loops offering different experiences
3. Brushy Creek Regional Trail
For the best of both worlds – easy, flat, paved routes with options to break off for more difficult mountain bike tracks – head to Brushy Creek Regional Trail near where Austin meets Cedar Park and Round Rock. The 6.75-mile accessible trail features parks, creek access, nature views, and opportunities to relax, plus numerous technical mountain bike trails branching off from the main path.
Trail Highlights:
- 6.75 miles of paved main trail
- Network of off-shoot mountain bike trails
- Creek crossings and natural scenery
- Playgrounds and rest areas along the route
- Good for mixed-ability group rides
For Road Cyclists & Endurance Riders
1. Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway)
The Capital of Texas Highway sweeps the edge of beautiful Texas Hill Country on Austin’s western edge, featuring views of the state Capitol, the University of Texas, and an iconic crossing over the Pennybacker Bridge. While this route does involve sharing the road with vehicles, the wide shoulders and stunning views make it a favorite among road cyclists.
Route Highlights:
- Rolling hills with challenging climbs
- Spectacular views of Lake Austin at the Pennybacker Bridge
- Wide shoulders on most sections
- Multiple access points for shorter segments
- Great training route for more serious cyclists
2. Lockhart Gravel Routes
Central Texas gravel riding throws everything at you — finely-crushed hardpack, loose rock, sand — but the area around Lockhart offers some of the best gravel cycling, with the added bonus of finishing your rides with classic barbecue from renowned spots like Black’s, Kreuz, or Smitty’s.
Route Highlights:
- Various route options from 30-50+ miles
- Mix of terrain types to test your gravel skills
- Lower traffic roads than urban routes
- Beautiful countryside views
- Post-ride barbecue rewards
3. Willow City Loop
For a true Texas Hill Country experience, ride the Willow City Loop, especially in spring when you’ll be surrounded by bluebonnets for 20 miles. This scenic route offers challenging climbs, sweeping descents, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Central Texas.
Route Highlights:
- Approximately 20 miles of scenic country roads
- Spectacular wildflower displays in spring
- Challenging hills with rewarding views
- Authentic Texas Hill Country experience
- Lower traffic on weekdays
Bike-Friendly Resources in Austin
Bike Rentals & Shops
Austin has an impressive selection of bike shops and rental services to meet every cycling need:
- Barton Springs Bike Rental – Founded in 2009, this is Austin’s original bike rental and tour shop offering both traditional and electric bike rentals. Located next to the 10-mile Town Lake Trail, Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool, and Barton Creek Greenbelt.
- Mellow Johnny’s – This landmark shop offers road, mountain, and city bike rentals, plus showers and lockers for commuters.
- Austin Tri-Cyclist – Known for professional bike fittings, repairs, and their Sit ‘n Fit program, this shop ensures a perfect fit for every rider. Their staff includes professional triathletes and cyclists, offering expert advice.
- MetroBike (formerly B-cycle) – Austin’s public bike share system is now managed by Capital Metro and is expanding to better serve the growing city. These rental stations are perfect for short trips and connecting with public transit.
- Austin Bike Tours and Rentals – Located in East Austin, they offer ready-to-go rentals and guided tours of Downtown and East Austin.
Community Cycling Events in 2025
Austin’s cycling calendar is packed with events for riders of all abilities:
- Texas MS 150 – Mark your calendar for April 26-27, 2025, for the next Texas MS 150, one of the state’s premier cycling charity events.
- Bike Austin Rides – These organized group rides are led by trained ride leaders, with routes rated by difficulty (1-4) and categorized by pace. The “no drop” policy ensures no rider is left behind.
- Maudie’s Moonlight Margarita 5K Fun Run – Though primarily a running event, this popular annual fundraiser supports The Trail Conservancy and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
- Social Cycling Austin – This community group hosts various weekly rides, including the famous Thursday Night Social Ride that attracts hundreds of cyclists for a fun, casual evening spin through the city.
- Tour d’Italia – This event offers a unique cycling experience not far from Austin, known for its friendly atmosphere and scenic routes catering to various skill levels.
Safety Tips for Cycling in Austin
Staying safe while enjoying Austin’s cycling scene is paramount. Here are essential safety tips for riding in our city:
- Know the Laws – In Austin, cyclists must always ride with traffic (never against it unless specifically allowed in contraflow lanes), obey traffic signs and signals, observe others’ right-of-way, and yield to pedestrians. Visit the City of Austin’s bicycle laws page for complete information.
- Be Visible – When riding at night, Texas state law requires bicycles to have a front white light visible from at least 500 feet. Reflective clothing and additional lights significantly improve your visibility.
- Use Hand Signals – Signal your intentions to motorists and pedestrians, especially when turning or changing lanes.
- Helmet Use – While not required for adults, children 17 and under must wear helmets when riding. We strongly recommend helmets for all cyclists regardless of age.
- Stay Alert – Using portable electronic devices when operating a bicycle in motion is prohibited in Austin. Stay focused on your surroundings, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Bike Lane Parking – A new ordinance expected to be implemented in early 2025 will prohibit parking in bike lanes unless explicitly allowed by signage, improving safety for cyclists throughout the city.
- Trail Etiquette – Keep your head on a swivel when using mixed-use trails like the Ann and Roy Butler Trail. Be aware of walkers, runners, other cyclists, and dogs.
- Regular Maintenance – Ensure your bike is in proper working condition before heading out. Many local shops offer free safety inspections.
Looking Ahead: Austin’s Cycling Future
The future of cycling in Austin looks bright. The city’s bicycle plan aims to significantly increase bicycle use and improve safety throughout Austin, with projected completion of the All Ages and Abilities network by 2025. As Austin continues to grow, cycling infrastructure will play an increasingly important role in addressing transportation needs and maintaining our city’s quality of life.
Projects to watch include continued expansion of the MetroBike system, new protected bike lanes throughout the city, and improved connections between existing trails and bike routes.
Cycling Safety & Legal Resources
At Cyclistlaw, we understand that even the most cautious cyclists may find themselves involved in an accident. If you’ve been injured while cycling in Austin, knowing your rights and legal options is essential:
- Know Your Rights – As a cyclist in Texas, you have the same rights to the road as motorists.
- Document Everything – If involved in an accident, document the scene with photos, gather witness information, and file a police report.
- Seek Medical Attention – Always get checked by a medical professional after any cycling accident, even if injuries seem minor.
- Insurance Considerations – Understand how your auto, health, and homeowner’s insurance may apply to cycling accidents.
- Expert Legal Support – Working with attorneys who specialize in cycling accidents ensures your case is handled by professionals who understand the unique challenges cyclists face.
Conclusion
Austin’s cycling scene offers something for everyone, from family-friendly leisurely rides to challenging mountain bike trails and road routes. As our city continues to invest in cycling infrastructure and community, there’s never been a better time to explore Austin on two wheels.
Whether you’re commuting to work, training for your next race, or simply enjoying a weekend cruise, Austin’s diverse cycling options provide countless opportunities to experience the natural beauty and urban vitality that make our city special.
Have you experienced a bicycle accident in Austin? Our team at Cyclistlaw specializes in bicycle injury cases and can help protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation with experienced attorneys who understand the unique challenges cyclists face.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always follow local traffic laws, use proper safety equipment, and ride within your abilities. Routes and conditions may change; check current status before riding unfamiliar trails.
