Barton Creek Greenbelt (Credit: Shawn Thomas via Flickr CC)
There are multiple greenbelts in Austin, but the Barton Creek Greenbelt is so beloved that locals commonly refer to it as “the Greenbelt,” as if it were the only one. Located in south-central Austin, the Barton Creek Greenbelt contains 12.68 miles of gorgeous trails, with the main trail spanning about 7 miles. This particular greenbelt is considered one of the top hiking trails in Texas.
But this area is not only for hiking. One of the city’s most prized attractions, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is filled with mountain biking trails and beautiful limestone bluffs for rock climbing. And when there’s enough water in the creek, there are several swimming holes locals like to enjoy.
It’s hard to believe something so beautiful is located minutes from downtown. Unfortunately for newcomers, accessing the Barton Creek Greenbelt can be a little confusing. To help, here is a complete guide to all the public access points for Austin’s natural gem.
Limestone bluffs tower over this Austin greenbelt
(Credit: Jessica Pino)
Trail Head
2201 Barton Springs Road
Considered the trailhead of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, this access point is great for beginners and those looking for a low-impact, relaxing hike. There’s ample parking in and around Zilker Park, though it does get busy on weekends and you do have to pay for parking. The beginning of the trail is pretty flat and not too demanding.
From here, if you head about 1.2 miles south, you’ll come to the next access point.
Special Note: This location is also considered the trailhead for the Violet Crown Trail, which shares the existing Barton Creek Greenbelt trail until about the 4-mile marker, where the trails diverge. Once complete, the Violet Crown Trail will be 30 miles long, stretching all the way into Hays County.
Spyglass Access
1601 Spyglass Dr.
Spyglass has been my very favorite access point for several years, mainly because this is where I discovered Taco Deli. I know this article isn’t about tacos, but if you are using this access point you must stop and try this local favorite. Grab a couple of breakfast tacos and be on your way to explore.
There is usually easy street parking at this access point.
Barton Creek filled with water (Credit Jessica Pino)
If you head north on the trail–or left for those directionally-challenged–you’ll arrive at Campbell’s Hole, a popular swimming spot…when there’s water.
If you head south–or to the right–you’ll catch the first of many climbing walls on the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Enclave, and great bouldering areas. If climbing is your thing, continue south and you’ll hit Seismic Wall. I should probably mention that climbers give their routes funny names. You’ll notice as I go along.
You can walk the creek bed when there’s no water in Barton Creek (Credit: Jessica Pino)
Barton Hills Access
2010 Homedale Dr.
If you’re wanting to reach Campbell’s Hole from the east side of the creek, you can find an access point at Barton Hills Elementary School. The street parking is located in a residential neighborhood, so please be considerate to those who live in the area. Again, head north to arrive at Campbell’s Hole.
There are additional hiking trails on the east side of the creek (this is where the 12.68 miles come into play). So even if there’s no water, there’s still plenty to explore in this area.
From here, travel about 1.2 miles to the next access point.
Gus Fruh Access
2642 Barton Hills Dr.
Gus Fruh access point is also located within a residential neighborhood, so be courteous and don’t block any driveways. There’s another popular swimming hole here…when there’s water. It can get quite deep, unlike Campbell’s Hole.
Rope swings along the greenbelt (Credit: Jessica Pino)
You’ll also find several great limestone climbing walls, such as Urban Assault, as you head south from this access point.
Continue south for roughly 1.4 miles and you’ll arrive at the main access point for the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
Loop 360 Access
3755-B Capital of Texas Hwy (Loop 360)
Austin Parks and Recreation sign (Credit: Ryan via Flickr CC)
When I first moved to Austin, I heard people talking about “the Greenbelt.” With piqued interest, I did a trusty Google search. Loop 360 is the only access point Google references. Even so, I’ll be honest: I had a strangely hard time finding this entrance because–as you pull up–it looks like you’re entering an office complex.
Remember, just turn at that light! There’s a designated parking lot with overflow parking in the office park on weekends. You’ll see the distinct Austin Parks and Recreation sign as you pull up–which all public access points have.
This access point is where you start to notice more mountain bikers, since from here the terrain is a lot more “fun.” This is also the main access point for the popular climbing wall, Seismic. I’ve climbed Seismic several times, including once in the dark. It’s pretty magical.
Climbers at Seismic Wall (Credit: Patrick Lewis via Flickr CC)
The biggest downfall to this section of the greenbelt is the noise pollution from the highway. So if you’re heading to the Barton Creek Greenbelt for meditative time, you may want to start at a different access point.
On your way to the next access point at Mopac, about 1.3 miles away, you’ll run into a fork in the trail where the Violet Crown Trail and the Barton Creek Greenbelt trails divide. Continue straight to remain on the Barton Creek Greenbelt trail.
Gaines/Twin Falls Access
3918 S. Mopac Expy
This entrance, in my opinion, is the trickiest. From Capital of Texas Highway, turn as if you’re heading south on Mopac. But instead of taking the on-ramp, remain on the frontage road. Just past the ramp, you’ll find the next Barton Creek Greenbelt access point. Look for parked cars on the right side of the road, and you’ll find the entrance near the U-turn.
There is no parking lot, which is why it’s so tricky. So be extra careful of traffic when walking along the road as you arrive.
Mountain bikers on the Barton Creek Greenbelt (Credit: Mark Stevens via Flickr CC)
Why access the greenbelt from here if it’s so tricky? Because from here you can quickly reach another swimming hole, Twin Falls. And even when there isn’t water, this area ranks high in my book because of the stunning and beautiful trees.
This access point is great for hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers, since the terrain is a little more diverse. Plus, it becomes less crowded from here to the last access point, which is about 2.8 miles west.
Beautiful exposed tree roots when there isn’t water in the creek (Credit: Jessica Pino)
Trails End
1710 Camp Craft Road
Considered the trails end, this access is my new favorite.
Here you will find the famous Hill of Life and Sculpture Falls. Sculpture Falls, you guessed it, is another swimming hole. And the Hill of Life is…well…a challenge! It’s about a half-mile downhill hike, or uphill depending on the direction you’re going. It’s great on a mountain bike and perfect for trail runners who want an extra challenge.
I really like that there are additional trails to explore and it’s typically less crowded in this area. And I secretly like the Hill of Life.
Diverse landscape along this Austin greenbelt (Credit: Jessica Pino)
Final Tips
Now that you know WHERE you’re going, here are a few important things to remember. First and foremost, since you are in a dog city, it’s important to note that dogs are welcome on the trail. However, they must be keep them on a leash at all times.
There are no restrooms, water fountains or trashcans on the trail itself, so plan ahead. Bring water with you and dispose of trash (including dog excrement) at the access points.
The Barton Creek Greenbelt has something for every interest and skill level. So pick up a new sport. Take your dog for a walk. Explore. Or just pray for rain, so we can take advantage of all the swimming holes right in our backyard.
Now that you know about all the Barton Creek Greenbelt access points, you have no excuse. Get out there!
@jpino9 wants to know:
What is your favorite activity on the Barton Creek Greenbelt?
This is great! But wondering if you might be able to add a map that shows all the points?
Maaaaaaaps. This needs maps plsthanks.
The main problem is the loose dogs. I can’t bring my dogs to the green belt because of the number of off leash dogs there. My older one has health issues and does not do well being run up on, guess his well being doesn’t matter even though Travis county has leash laws.
Kat, there were 3 officers making people put their dogs on leases today. People just let them back off after officers left.
that is totally obnoxious
What’s the point of taking your dog hiking and enjoy the nature if he’s going to stay on leash. If your dog is sick to the point where he can’t just enjoy nature freely. Then don’t bring him.
I let my dog run about, but Kat has a point about an older and/or sick dog being able to bask in nature without a younger dog jumping on him and inadvertently causing stress or injury. Because of her words, I will be more conscientious and abiding.
uh, f you Lana. People like you are so inconsiderate
You’re projecting your emotions onto dogs, which is ignorant. People who let their dogs run loose are just irresponsible children who think they’re doing him/her a favor – they’re not. Dogs are perfectly happy on a leash and are more content when their owners teach them boundaries and provide structure.
Is not about you is about being responsible and respect x others
“The Complete Guide to the Greenbelt Access Points and Trails,”
…and there isn’t a single map. Ugh.
Thanks for the comment, @benfehlen:disqus. As we were preparing this article, we talked about map options. Because we’re all volunteers at The Austinot and don’t have a graphic designer on our team, we were limited with what we could do. We hope the specific addresses and instructions for every access point in the article will allow you to find them easily. If you know of any Austin graphic designer who would like to volunteer to share the city’s best through visuals aids, let me know.
Brittany, I don’t think you need a graphic designer to be able to embed maps into your article. Feel free to contact me at blewis@cloud816.com and I’d love to walk you through embedding Google maps into this post and others.
This is great information! Very comprehensive.
do the entire loop round trip. pretty good 4 hour hike
Here’s an update to Barton Creek greenbelt trail conditions. I regularly run all points of the trail. There is no dry crossing, and there are quite a few trees down, which changes the look of the trail and some accessibility. The footbridge located at approximately the 3.25 mile marker was washed away by the flooding, so there is no crossing at that point. If you want to go from the Spyglass trailhead to 360 trailhead (all entrances are called trailheads), you’ll have to find an alternate method to get from one side to another (I’ve just cut it out — that crossing is deep and fast). Parts of The Chain were washed loose; that doesn’t affect usage much, but it is slippery. If you stay on the 360 trailhead side, much of the lower trail options are underwater, so take the detours. On the Camp Craft side, the trail from the bottom of the Hill of Life to the dam has finally dried out. Big perk: Signs are being installed to mark the new Violet Crown Trail that ties into the greenbelt. And watch out for snakes — I spotted the biggest one I’ve ever seen (cottonmouth) during my Saturday morning run. Enjoy!
Hi Leah! I’m from out of town, PA and I’m planning on doing the Barton Creek Trail tomorrow. Since the SpyGlass Trail doesn’t sound open where would you recommend I start and finish? Any help on mileage would be great also. Thanks, PA
First off, welcome to Austin, Betty! Spyglass is open…it’s just you can’t connect to 360 access, so there’s about 3 miles of trail to cover. I was just there this morning. Some friends and I started at the 0.0 marker (that’s the trailhead at Barton Springs Pool parking lot) and did and out-and-back for about 3.5 miles. I’d recommend as a visitor that you start at the 360 access and head to your left after you come down from the switchbacks at hit the “T” into the main trail. It’s super pretty and very straightforward. You can do an out-and-back for a good lengthy run. There are markers to show distance, but I like to run for time, especially when exploring a new trail. Hard to know what to recommend mileage without knowing your background. Let me know how it goes! (BTW, I like running in PA. I’ve done the Steamtown Marathon in PA and a 5K in Philly along the Schullkyll – sp?- River.)
Thanks Leah! My background is mainly a cyclist but love to hike a good 6 or 7miler. I’m from the Pittsburgh area. I’ve done 10k’s but mostly cycling rides for MS lots of hill country. When we come to the T which way do you recommend? Thanks again!! Betty
I recommend going to your left when you hit the “T” into the main trail from the 360 trailhead (there’s a big tree uprooted at that intersection).
For those looking for maps: Pick your access point and then search the Austin Parks Foundation map by location name. It has photos and detailed maps. http://www.austinparks.org/our-parks.html?parkid=206
The water is amazing at Campbell’s hole but way, way too much dog poop not picked up by owners. We had to negotiate it about every 5-10 feet.
The whole city smells like dog poop now…it’s gross. Everybody LOVES their dogs like children…well…act like it and clean your dogs mess.
As a resident of The Woods of Westlake, location to the Trail’s End access point, I have a few remarks to share. MOST visitors to the neighborhood and trail are respectful of the homes and homeowners. HOWEVER, we have witnessed numerous times creek trail visitors urinating in the street as they stand next to their parked vehicles. Also, many buttocks have been on display as people change in broad daylight, undressing to slip into bathing suits or vice versa. Some litter is discarded by the hikers, often times left curbside for one of our neighborhood residents to pick up. Quite often, dogs that are accompanying the hikers Re off leash and poop in the yards. Most often, the poop is noticed up by the dog owners. Please, please, please be respectful and do the right thing when you come into the neighborhood, park your vehicle, and hike the greenbelt. Oh, one more thing–At least once a month EMS and fire fighters are called to rescue someone who has fallen and become injured on the Hill of Life. We actually witnessed a poor bride in her wedding dress who was at the Hill of Life to have pictures taken. She fell
and had to be hauled up the hillside in a rescue basket. Thank you!
Oh no not buttocks! ?
Turn the other ‘cheek’ and moon ’em back!!
Oh my goodness I love you for compiling this! I’m still semi new to Austin and have always been perplexed about different access points! This is wonderful and those photos are gorgeous ?!
I know this is a few months old, but am curious to know where you got your information that the Greenbelt spans over 12 miles? I’ve looked at a few different sources (for a write up I’m working on for my real estate company’s blog) and have seen most sites list the trails covering a little over 7 miles. I was just wondering if you could share where you found this information, so I can provide the most accurate information to our clients. Thanks!
Hi do you know if there’s picnic areas or grills? also, what can you tell me about the water levels for Twin Falls…is there enough water to swim?
I have started using this trail for training and find it quite beautiful.My one question is are people supposed to carry out their dogs waste after they bag it?I have seen many bags left along the trail.I have been on many trails around the country and practice a leave no trace policy.Am I wrong here or does someone come through and pick it up everyday.It would be terrible to have those bags start floating into the river,I think it would almost be better not to supply the bags.Or to set up garbage bins for this purpose.
Most people leave the bags tied off, and then grab them on the way back, since they usually are doing a loop from one access point.
Apparently though, a huge number of people forget their little plastic bags of crap though – they are constantly everywhere, abandoned and increasingly tattered with age, waiting to be spread everywhere by the next heavy rain and flood.
I love dogs, but the Barton Creek greenbelt is like a paid advertisement against dog owners.
Any trail use should adhere to the policy of “pack it in, pack it out.” One of the biggest problems that plagues Barton Creek is waste. No, people do not police the greenbelt trail to pick up other’s dog poop bags. Dog owners should carry it with them and discard in a waste bin as soon as available. Volunteer for greenbelt trail clean-up and you’ll discover just how much crap, literally and figuratively, people dump on the trail.
NO ONE CARES!! It’s gross. They think their mamas are going to come in behind them and put it in the trash for them.
Keep Austin beautiful and have some respect for not only the locals who have been here their whole lives, but also TEXAS, Kyle.
Great list. I’d add the access point in Lost Creek – that’s my favorite (less crowded) access point. This website had a good write-up http://do512family.com/2013/05/swimming-in-austin/
Agree. Lost Creek connecting to the barton creek greenbelt was a happy surprise I had one day in my own random wandering about.
Nooooo! Please don’t share the secret caves, the unnamed creek grottoes, the location of the hidden rope swing among the Oak trees a few few off the trail, or the unknown swimming holes !!! The popular spots are great, but there are secrets for those who brave poison ivy, potential snake encounters (very few and none poisonous so far), and plenty of mosquitoes off the trails….
Is the creek dry now or is there water running?
@disqus_k0P5FNhNWq:disqus, I don’t know for sure because I haven’t been there this week. But with all the rain we’ve been having, I would think there’s water running in the creek right now.
Off leash dogs are becoming a big issue on the greenbelt. It is like people in the last few years have just decided to make it an off-leash dog park, and don’t give a rip that the greenbelt and everyone else are worse off for it. There’s dog crap everywhere (because no owners really have eyes on their dogs every second when they’re letting their dog off leash to play. The undergrowth at popular spots and soil is being eroded at much higher rates, and all over the place rather just the areas of heavier human foot traffic (dogs wander).
Also, there are an increasing number of people that cause an even bigger issue by bringing their pit bulls/mixes and other larger dogs and just let them off leash to play among the children and families who have always enjoyed our town’s swimming holes. In my experience, I’ve never had a pit bull owner do the decent thing and leash/otherwise control their dog in these situations, even after multiple parent requests – there’s a strange and incredible sense of entitlement, and usually even a taking of offense that anyone could be made uncomfortable by their large potentially aggressive dog that we do not personally know getting all up in babies/toddler’s faces etc. It’s ruining greenbelt swimming holes as a place to take children peacefully and safely.
Pit bulls are good dogs 🙂
Is there a fee to hike here?
No, they’re free public trails.
Is there anywhere to BBQ (grills, picnic tables) at this trail?
No, but lots of places for a wonderful picnic if you want to pack it in.
Hi, I am interested in using this photograph for a public poster. Can you contact me to discuss permissions? Thanks much. bbooth@appgeo.com
Anyone know the condition of the river?
Can you ride bikes on any part of the Greenbelt Trail? Are there any restrictions? Thanks!
No restrictions. As always, just be respectful of pedestrians and look out for pups. Also, you might consider going at an off-time if you can–or choosing a less-trafficked area of the trail.