10 Best Hiking Trails Near Northwest Hills, Austin TX 78731 | Outdoor Adventures Guide
By Joe and Cara Keenan, Ultrarunner & #1 Northwest Hills Realtors | Keenan Group at Compass Real Estate
Looking for the best hiking trails near Northwest Hills, Austin TX 78731? As the #1 Top Real Estate Team in Northwest Hills (Austin Board of Realtors 2024), we've logged thousands of miles on these trails and know every hidden gem in the 78731 and 78759 ZIP codes. Whether you're a Northwest Hills homeowner, considering buying real estate in Northwest Hills, or simply exploring Austin's outdoor adventures, this comprehensive guide covers trails perfect for every fitness level.
Quick Trail Facts: Northwest Hills residents enjoy access to over 50 miles of trails within 15 minutes • Average home values near these trails: $800K-$2M (see our Northwest Hills Market Report) • Dog-friendly options available • Year-round hiking weather
Text us at (512) 415-7653 for personalized trail recommendations - Joe Keenan at Keenan Group is an ultrarunner with 1000s of trail miles and happy to share local insights!
Why Northwest Hills Austin is a Hiker's Paradise
Northwest Hills (78731) offers unparalleled access to Austin's best outdoor recreation. Our luxury real estate clients consistently rank proximity to hiking trails as a top priority when choosing homes in the area. Living in Northwest Hills means weekend adventures are just minutes from your doorstep, along with access to top restaurants and family-friendly play areas for post-hike activities.
1. Bull Creek Greenbelt - Northwest Hills' Backyard Trail System
Distance: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Waterfalls, creek crossings, shaded trails
Best For: Northwest Hills families, trail runners, dog walking
The Bull Creek Greenbelt is the crown jewel for Northwest Hills 78731 residents. Located just minutes from homes on Valburn Drive and Far West Boulevard, this trail system features stunning waterfalls, serene creek crossings, and shaded pathways perfect for Austin's hot summers. As your Northwest Hills Real Estate experts, we regularly run these trails and can confirm they're ideal for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Local Tip: Park at Bull Creek Park trailhead for easy access, or use the back entrance off Lakewood Drive to the Bull Creek waterfall (Northwest Hills residents know this one!). After your hike, grab a smoothie at one of the local businesses in our Northwest Hills Business Directory.
AllTrails Link - West Bull Creek Greenbelt in Northwest Hills
AllTrails Link - Bull Creek District Park series of trails
AllTrails Link - Bull Creek North Loop
AllTrails Link - Bull Creek Preserve - 4.6 mile length with 557 ft elevation gain - beautiful!
Photo: Looking down Sevan Dr from Valburn Dr towards Bull Creek Preserve - Northwest Hills' favorite trail | Photo by Joe Keenan, The Keenan Group
2. Mount Bonnell (Covert Park) - Austin's Most Iconic View
Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Panoramic Austin views, sunrise/sunset spot
From Northwest Hills: 8-minute drive via Balcones Drive
Mount Bonnell stands at 775 feet - Austin's highest point - offering breathtaking views of Lake Austin and downtown. This quick hike is perfect for Northwest Hills residents hosting out-of-town guests or showing prospective Northwest Hills luxury home buyers why Austin's outdoor lifestyle is unmatched. As the #1 Realtors in Northwest Hills, we often start property tours here to showcase the area's natural beauty.
AllTrails Link - Mount Bonnell Trail and Covert Park
3. St. Edward's Park - Northwest Hills' Hidden Gem
Distance: 3.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Creek trails, limestone cliffs, connects to Bull Creek
Dog-Friendly: Yes (leash required)
St. Edward's Park on Old Spicewood Springs Road is a best-kept secret among Northwest Hills locals. These extensive trail systems connect Forest Ridge, Jester neighborhood, and Bull Creek near 360/Capital of Texas Highway. Perfect for longer trail runs or family adventures, this park exemplifies why Northwest Hills real estate commands premium values - unmatched access to nature while remaining minutes from Northwest Hills shopping and dining.
AllTrails Link - St. Edward Park series of trails on Old Spicewood Springs Rd.
Photos by Joe Keenan, Keenan Group - Northwest Hills Top Realtors
Pro Tip: Bring AllTrails, Strava, or Google Maps - the winding trail system is extensive but rewarding!
4. River Place Nature Trail - Austin's Most Challenging Hike
Distance: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: 600+ stairs, waterfalls, canyon views
Entry Fee: $10 (worth every penny)
For Northwest Hills residents seeking a serious workout, the River Place Nature Trail delivers Austin's most challenging hiking experience. This trail's infamous stair sections and steep inclines reward hikers with spectacular waterfalls and canyon vistas. Located in the prestigious River Place neighborhood, it showcases the dramatic topography that makes Northwest Austin's real estate so desirable. Check our latest Northwest Hills market report to see how proximity to trails like this impacts home values.
AllTrails Link - River Place Preserve Nature Trails - $10 entry fee
5. Turkey Creek Trail - Northwest Hills' Dog Paradise
Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Off-leash dog area, swimming holes, shaded
Location: Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Turkey Creek Trail is where Northwest Hills dog owners congregate! This leash-free paradise features multiple creek crossings perfect for cooling off Austin pups. As the #1 Realtors serving Northwest Hills' pet-loving community, we always highlight this trail to clients prioritizing dog-friendly amenities when viewing Northwest Hills homes for sale.
AllTrails Link - Turkey Creek Trail
6. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park - Family-Friendly Trail Network
Distance: 7.3 miles of trails
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Mountain biking, picnic areas, playground
Perfect For: Northwest Hills families with varied fitness levels
Walnut Creek Park offers Northwest Hills residents extensive trail options for hiking, biking, and family outings. Its proximity to Northwest Hills (just 15 minutes via MoPac) makes it ideal for after-school adventures or weekend family activities. Many families discover this park when exploring the best places to play in Northwest Hills.
AllTrails Link - Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park Trail System
7. Barton Creek Greenbelt - Austin's Crown Jewel
Distance: 13.8 miles (multiple access points)
Difficulty: Easy to Hard (including Hill of Life)
Highlights: Swimming holes, Sculpture Falls, limestone cliffs
Must-Do: Hill of Life for 300ft elevation gain
The Barton Creek Greenbelt defines Austin outdoor culture. Northwest Hills residents love being just 15 minutes from Twin Falls, Sculpture Falls, and the challenging Hill of Life. This proximity to Austin's most iconic trail system is a major selling point for Northwest Hills luxury homes. The Greenbelt offers something for everyone - from casual nature walks to intense trail running routes. After your hike, refuel at one of the top restaurants in Northwest Hills.
AllTrails Link - Barton Creek Greenbelt series of trails
8. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve - Educational Nature Trails
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Native plants, birdwatching, educational programs
Best For: Families, nature photography, peaceful walks
The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers Northwest Hills families an educational outdoor experience. With well-maintained trails through diverse Hill Country ecosystems, it's perfect for teaching kids about Central Texas nature. As Northwest Hills' top Realtors, we love that families can enjoy wilderness adventures while staying close to top-rated Northwest Hills schools and family play areas.
AllTrails Link - Wild Basin Wilderness - beautiful Austin ecosystem
9. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve - Historic Gardens & Peacocks
Distance: 0.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Historic gardens, resident peacocks, Lake Austin views
Instagram-Worthy: Yes! Perfect for engagement photos
Mayfield Park combines natural beauty with Austin history, just minutes from Northwest Hills via 35th Street. Famous for its free-roaming peacocks and historic stone cottages, this easy trail is perfect for all ages. Many Northwest Hills homebuyers fall in love with the area after discovering gems like Mayfield Park, along with the local businesses and amenities that make this neighborhood special.
AllTrails Link - Mayfield Park and Laguna Gloria
10. Balcones District Park Trail - Northwest Hills' Neighborhood Secret
Distance: 1.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Small waterfall, shaded creek trail, never crowded
Location: Perfect for 78759 and 78731 residents
The Walnut Creek Trail in Balcones Community Park is Northwest Hills' best-kept neighborhood secret. This hidden gem offers residents of Northwest Hills and nearby neighborhoods a peaceful escape without the crowds. Living near trails like this is why Northwest Hills consistently ranks among Austin's most desirable neighborhoods, as detailed in our April 2025 market analysis.
AllTrails Link - Balcones District Park Trail
Why Northwest Hills is Austin's Premier Neighborhood for Outdoor Enthusiasts
As The Keenan Group - Northwest Hills' #1 Real Estate Team (Austin Board of Realtors 2024) - we've helped hundreds of families find homes that combine luxury living with outdoor adventure access. Northwest Hills (78731) offers:
- 10+ hiking trails within 15 minutes
- Top-rated schools with outdoor education programs
- Active community of runners, hikers, and cyclists
- Luxury homes from $800K to $3M+ with nature views (see current Northwest Hills listings)
- Year-round perfect hiking weather
- Access to excellent dining and local businesses
Frequently Asked Questions About Northwest Hills Hiking
What's the best beginner trail near Northwest Hills?
Mount Bonnell offers the easiest introduction with maximum reward - just 0.5 miles for panoramic Austin views. Mayfield Park is another gentle option perfect for families.
Which trails allow dogs off-leash?
Turkey Creek Trail at Emma Long Park is the best off-leash destination near Northwest Hills. Always check current Austin leash laws as they can change.
When is the best time to hike in Austin?
October through May offers ideal weather. Summer hiking (June-September) is best before 10 AM. Northwest Hills' tree-covered trails like Bull Creek stay cooler year-round.
Do I need special gear for these trails?
Good walking shoes, water, and sun protection are essential. For River Place Nature Trail, bring extra water and consider hiking poles for the stairs.
Are these trails safe for solo hiking?
Yes! These popular trails near Northwest Hills are well-traveled and safe. Always tell someone your plans and bring a charged phone with AllTrails downloaded.
How far are these hiking trails from Northwest Hills homes?
Most trails are within a 5-15 minute drive from Northwest Hills (78731). Bull Creek Greenbelt and Balcones District Park are practically in the neighborhood's backyard, while iconic trails like Barton Creek Greenbelt and Mount Bonnell are just 10-15 minutes away. This proximity to nature is why Northwest Hills real estate maintains such strong property values - currently ranging from $800K to $3M+ according to our April 2025 market report.
What are the best trails for families with young children in Northwest Hills?
Mayfield Park (0.8 miles) and Mount Bonnell (0.5 miles) are perfect for young families - both offer easy, short walks with big rewards. Balcones District Park provides a gentle 1.3-mile trail that's never crowded. For slightly older kids, the easy sections of Bull Creek Greenbelt offer fun water crossings and small waterfalls. After hiking, families can enjoy the best play areas in Northwest Hills or grab treats at nearby local businesses.
Where should I park when accessing trails near Northwest Hills?
Each trail has specific parking areas. Bull Creek Greenbelt has parking at St. Mary's Cathedral and along Lakewood Drive. Mount Bonnell offers a small parking area at 3800 Mount Bonnell Road. St. Edward's Park has a dedicated lot on Old Spicewood Springs Road. River Place Nature Trail requires parking at the River Place Country Club ($10 entry fee includes parking). For detailed directions from Northwest Hills, contact The Keenan Group at (512) 415-7653 - we're always happy to help new Northwest Hills residents navigate their neighborhood trails.
Can I mountain bike on these Northwest Hills area trails?
Yes! Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is an excellent mountain biking destination near Northwest Hills with 7.3 miles of dedicated bike trails. Barton Creek Greenbelt also allows mountain biking on most sections. St. Edward's Park has some bike-friendly trails, though they're more technical. Bull Creek trails are primarily for hiking. Northwest Hills' central location means you're just 15 minutes from Austin's best mountain biking while enjoying the luxury amenities and top-rated restaurants the neighborhood offers.
What wildlife might I see on trails near Northwest Hills Austin?
Northwest Hills trails are home to diverse Texas wildlife. Common sightings include white-tailed deer (especially at dawn/dusk), armadillos, foxes, and numerous bird species including cardinals, blue jays, and occasionally hawks. Bull Creek and St. Edward's Park feature turtles and fish in the creeks. Mayfield Park is famous for its resident peacocks. While rare, maintain awareness for snakes during warmer months. This abundant wildlife adds to the natural beauty that makes Northwest Hills one of Austin's most desirable neighborhoods - browse current Northwest Hills homes for sale to find your perfect property near these natural habitats.
Ready to Call Northwest Hills Home?
Keenan Group at Compass Real Estate - Your Northwest Hills Real Estate Experts
As ultrarunners and outdoor enthusiasts who've explored every trail in this guide, we understand what makes Northwest Hills special. Whether you're looking for a luxury home with trail access, relocating to Austin, or selling your Northwest Hills property, we combine deep local knowledge with proven results as the #1 team in the area.
Learn more about the neighborhood through our comprehensive resources:
- Northwest Hills Neighborhood Guide
- Latest Northwest Hills Market Report
- Northwest Hills Business Directory
- Top Northwest Hills Restaurants
- Best Places to Play in Northwest Hills
Contact the Keenan Group:
Joe Keenan
Call/Text: (512) 415-7653
Email: [email protected]
View Joe's Profile on Compass
Cara Keenan
Call/Text: (512) 917-2326
Email: [email protected]
View Cara's Profile on Compass
Office:
4206 Venado Dr. Austin, TX 78731
Email: [email protected]
Website: TheKeenanGroup.com
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Keenan Group at Compass Real Estate | #1 Northwest Hills Real Estate Team | Austin Board of Realtors 2024 | Specializing in Northwest Hills, Westover Hills, Cat Mountain, and Austin's Best Neighborhoods
