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Austin, Texas / Parks and outdoors

Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail

Spanning 10 miles along the scenic Colorado River, this iconic, mostly flat trail offers a lush urban escape. Enjoy stunning views of downtown Austin's skyline, historic landmarks, and the beautiful Lady Bird Lake.

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Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail
thetrailconservancy.org, og_image_thetrailconservancy.org

What is the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail and how long is it?

The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail (also known as the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail) is a 10-mile, low-grade, multi-use trail in the heart of Austin. It runs along the water's edge past downtown, neighborhoods, playing fields, and cultural landmarks, and is used by pedestrians, runners, and cyclists.

What are the hours of operation for the trail?

The trail and its Boardwalk section are open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight. There is a mandatory curfew in place from midnight to 5 a.m.

Is the trail wheelchair-accessible?

Yes, the trail is mostly flat and paved with crushed granite, concrete, or boardwalk, featuring gentle grades under 8% that make it mostly wheelchair-accessible. It also provides ADA-accessible entrances, rest areas, restrooms, and drinking fountains.

Where can I access the Boardwalk portion of the trail?

The Boardwalk can be accessed at several points, including the northeast corner of the American-Statesman parking lot, off the Riverside Drive sidewalk at Blunn Creek, the northeast corner of the Riverside and IH35 intersection, and at International Shores Park.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, officially named the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, is Austin's most recognized and beloved recreational attraction. Welcoming nearly 5 million annual visitors, this scenic 10-mile loop meanders along the shores of the Colorado River in the heart of the Texas capital. The reservoir itself was formed in 1960 by the construction of the Longhorn Dam, and it was later renamed Lady Bird Lake in 2007 to honor the former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, following her passing. The trail's history dates back to the 1970s when the first hike-and-bike paths were constructed along the shoreline, establishing the area as a major recreational hub. For decades, a gap remained along the south shore. To close this 1.3-mile gap, construction on a dedicated Boardwalk section began in October 2012 and was completed in June 2014. Today, this addition serves not only as a scenic pathway but also as an alternative transportation route for Austin's growing urban core. Designed as a low-grade, multi-use path, the trail is wide enough to comfortably accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians. It is mostly flat and paved with crushed granite, concrete, and boardwalk planks, featuring gentle grades under 8% that make it mostly wheelchair-accessible. Along the route, visitors will find convenient amenities including ADA-accessible entrances, restrooms, drinking fountains, and rest areas, making it a welcoming destination for all. As you walk, run, or bike along the trail, you will pass a vibrant mix of central Austin sights, including towering skyscrapers, peaceful residential neighborhoods, active playing fields, and key cultural landmarks. The trail is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight, offering a year-round natural escape right next to the bustling downtown.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit between the open hours of 5 a.m. and midnight to avoid the mandatory nightly curfew.
  • Access the scenic Boardwalk section from multiple convenient points, including the American-Statesman parking lot, Blunn Creek, or International Shores Park.
  • Take advantage of the trail's amenities, which include restrooms, drinking fountains, and ADA-accessible entrances.

Nearby context

Nestled in the heart of central Austin, the trail seamlessly connects the city's bustling downtown with lush green spaces. As you wander along the water's edge, you can easily transition to nearby viewpoints like the Lou Neff Point Gazebo, which offers a perfect spot to pause and take in the panoramic views of the river and the surrounding skyline.

Sources

Evidence and links