Don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle when you park. That's why it's one of Austinites' favorites! So did a little research and compiled a list of the various locations to help you get out and enjoy the Greenbelt. It’s easy to see why — the vibrant trees, refreshing water, and ample shade makes Austinites absolutely giddy. Near Rollingwood, Texas. Most people cool off in the summer heat by taking a dip in the creek. As 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 several swimming holes to enjoy. Please tell us at do512family@do512.com. Have any other advice to share? DO NOT WEAR FLIP FLOPS, you’ll regret it. instead of getting onto Mopac. Don't put your bikinis away just yet ladies, there's still plenty of hidden gems to explore in Texas including this stunning Austin greenbelt and water hole that'll leave you feeling nice and refreshed. Trail and Cliffs along the greenbelt 09. Barton Creek Spillway is a swimming hole and water sports mecca adjacent to Barton Spring Pool, a tributary that feeds the Colorado River as it flows through the Texas Hill Country. Gus Fruh (2642 Barton Hills Dr): When the temperature is not flirting with its summer norms, the torrents of rain we’ve been experiencing can cause rapid changes in swimming conditions in the area’s natural swimming spots along the Barton Creek Greenbelt. While definitely a hike, this is a casual and easy outdoor experience - just go at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful Greenbelt around you! Spyglass has been one of our go-to access point for many years, due to it’s proximity to Tacodeli. 1710 Camp Craft Rd, Austin, TX 78746. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our privacy policy. The trail to Twin Falls can take a little bit of hiking time, so take note of that if you’ve got little ones with you. Twin Falls 10. Gus Fruh Access Take your dog for a walk. More rock climbers 14. A crisp, sunny day after a good rain the day before makes for an excellent walk. This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of. At Austin Parks Foundation, we recognize the importance of the Barton Creek Greenbelt and have dedicated to long-term investments into the trail. Courtesy of Instagrammer @shamlesslyblissful. Consider having the kids wear water shoes to help on slippery rocks. © 2019 Do512 Family. The Green Belt has long been a popular destination for summer swims in Austin. We love to be out and about in Austin and are always looking for fun things to do with the family. The Barton Creek Greenbelt, which travels through south Austin, is the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes in the city.You can enjoy hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming and even lazily passing a day perched in a hammock or sunbathing on a boulder along Barton Creek. Above are just some of the most popular entry points. Swimming season is upon us—at least on some days. and TX-360 Loop Austin, TX 78746 (Obviously, no lifeguards at the Greenbelt.). We always take our camel pack because we never know how long we'll be out there hiking around. You’ll see parked cars on the right side and the access to the Greenbelt here. It’s the perfect place to go rock climbing on limestone cliffs, mountain biking on challenging biking trails, or swimming, cliff diving, kayaking, and tubing in the creek! 2201 Barton Springs Road . You might have to share the moment with a dozen other frolicking adventurers, but hey, that just comes with the territory. William Barton gave his name to the creek that created the Greenbelt when he settled on its banks in 1837. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of the most cherished places in the city. Roundly viewed as the lifeblood of Austin recreation, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a bustling hub filled with runners, hikers, swimmers, rock climbers, mountain bikers, and more. Barton Creek 05. When you do reach Twin Falls, there is lots of space to spread out, and a few picnic tables are available. I've always appreciated the roughness of the trail - you'll want to wear shoes with good tread. This entrance is very popular but a little complicated to explain. Barton Hills/Homedale Access The Barton Creek Greenbelt officially opened in 1985. Barton Creek Greenbelt. I had hiked the 1,850-acre Barton Creek Greenbelt and Wilderness Park that stretches more than seven miles above the pool and attracts numerous hikers, mountain bikers and rock climbers. For the best swimming experience at the falls, head there 2 to 4 days after it has rained. Twin Falls 12. This area is not only for hiking. On the other end of the spectrum, this entrance offers easy access to Twin Falls and is a short walk from Sculpture Falls. It is a 7.8-mile trail for hiking and bicycling. Explore. Welcome to the weird world of Austin. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/barton-creek-greenbelt Drive 1.5 miles to Barton Creek Rd and turn left (west). –> Public Access Points to the Barton Creek Greenbelt: Spyglass Access Parking here is on the street in a residential neighborhood. The Creek flows primarily during the rainy seasons in the spring and fall. Whether you're looking for a day hike, mountain biking, rock climbing, or swimming, this greenbelt has it all. Try to head to the Greenbelt early in the day to avoid crowds. Within Zilker Park's 358 acres lies one of the crown jewels of Austin - Barton Springs Pool. and TX-360 Loop Austin, TX 78746, Austin Visitor Center: 602 E. Fourth St, Austin, 78701, Visit Austin Admin: 111 Congress Ave, Suite 700 Austin, 78701. All rights reserved. The Polar Bear Club at Barton Springs, which has over one hundred members, swims year-round. There is also usually easy street parking at this location. Some of the trails have steep drop-offs, and of course kids will need monitoring when swimming. Click here for a map. A great day hike to explore the swimming holes, falls, and sculptured rock areas of upper Barton Creek Greenbelt. With so many public access points to the Greenbelt, we were curious about all of the best swimming spots right now. So pick up a new sport. Click here for a map. When driving south on MoPac, you will see cars parked to the right along the side of frontage road, so you will know you've come to the right place. greenbelt now Can I swim at the Greenbelt today Select a Greenbelt access point on the map or dropdown menu to display the latest water data from the closest gauge. Always bring drinking water too! Photo credit: Jamie Jett. For the best swimming experience at the falls, head there 2 to 4 days after it has rained. Cool Off in the Creek or Springs. Or just pray for rain, so we can take advantage of all the swimming holes right in our backyard. Take the first right on Barton Hills Dr. Continue down Barton Hills for exactly 2 miles. 4. Unfortunately, during dry seasons these areas can only be explored on foot. Be Bound By. The clear-running water rushes over rocks and boulders, punctuated occasionally by small waterfalls and cascades. You can also reach Campbell’s Hole from an access point at Barton Hills Elementary. I'd recommend leaving the stroller or cooler at home due to the uneven surfaces, rocks and exposed roots. Past the greenbelt, the creek is visible to the public only where it crosses a couple of decades-old golf course developments and where it goes under public roads. More wildflowers along the creek 07. 1601 Spyglass Dr. However, there is also Barton Springs Municipal Pool, and this is a popular spot for swimming. In Texas, however, the end of August does not mean the end of scorching hot weather. 1710 Camp Craft Road 2010 Homedale Dr. Unfortunately for newcomers, figuring out the Barton Creek Greenbelt can be a … Drive about one mile past the Lamar intersection and turn left on Robert E Lee Rd. Click here for a map. Finally, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of the area’s most revered swimming destinations, so consider setting aside some time to soak in the natural refreshment. Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls MoPac Expy. This is the best choice for someone looking to get to the Greenbelt’s best swimming spots. Trail End/Sculpture Falls Access For those of you looking for a more relaxing afternoon, there are many shallow areas in the stream just above the falls with a very slow moving current that you can enjoy.If you're up for a more strenuous adventure, you can continue hiking about a mile past Twin Falls to reach Sculpture Falls, another great hidden gem. The Barton Creek Greenbelt has something for every interest and skill level. With so many public access points to the Greenbelt, we were curious about all of the best swimming spots right now. Here are some directions from TexasOutside.com: From I-35 exit on Riverside and head west. Wildflowers 06. 2642 Barton Hills Dr. The eight miles of rocky trails crisscross Barton Creek and lead to a number of swimming holes and rock climbing sites. Swimming Area Climbing Wall Scenic Overlook Restroom Kiosks Parking Lot Shared Use Hike Only Mountain Bike Other City of Austin Parks Barton Creek Greenbelt Barton Creek Wilderness Park 0 0.25 0.5 Mile 7.5 7.25 7 6.75 6.5 6.25 6 5.75 5.5 5.25 5 4.75 4.5 4.25 4 3.75 3.5 3.25 3 2.75 2.25 2.5 2 1.75 1.5 1.25 1.75.5.. s Rd. The end of August means the end of the summer season, and we're all shedding a tear or two for our tan lines. 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. Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin. You can also access Twin Falls from parking on the Mopac access road just south of 360. You could get to Gus Fruh from the Spyglass entrance and just simply keep going, but you can take a more direct route and park in this residential neighborhood. The trail ends in west Austin at a steep hill known as the Hill of Life. Twin Falls is more well known compared to some of these other spots but is tucked away off the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail and is worth the trip. You'll get a taste of the Greenbelt as this walk is part of the larger hiking trail takes about 10-20 minutes from your parking spot. I would recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes (particularly if you are bringing kids) but you will be fine in flip flops too, just be sure to watch your step. It really is the perfect place to spend a nice hot Texas day! Property Submission: Rules & Requirements, La Música En Vivo Está En Nuestras Raíces. Rock Climbers along the creek 03. Bring some food and some friends and you could make a day out of the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Located just south of downtown, the Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls area of the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a hidden local oasis no matter what time of year. For those looking for an action-packed adventure, there are tons of rocky areas to explore, climb and jump from (at your own risk). Capturing the laid-back, down-to-earth spirit of the city of Austin and those who inhabit it, it’s a place that embraces all who enter. The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers over 7 miles of gorgeous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and swimming when the water levels are just right. Another swimming spot. The best entrance is on the southwest side of MoPac (Loop 1) and 360, though parking can sometimes be a bit tricky. Drawing locals and visitors alike year-round for fun in the sun (and the shade—not to be taken for granted in the heat of summer), it’s a warm and welcoming space to for all to enjoy and then leave as pristine a… Austin Parks says that swimming is a popular activity for those who are visiting Barton Creek Greenbelt. The creek passes through Barton Creek Greenbelt and is fed by Barton Springs. Have other favorite spots along the Greenbelt? You can run, bike, hike, swim, climb or spend a day lounging in the sun (or shade) with your family, friends and four-legged friends. Weird & Wonderful Places to Stay in Texas, Enjoy Thinkery Fun at Home with Do/Make/Create STEAM Kits, The Academy of Games Teaches Game Design Through Play, MLK Jr. Day of Service: Black History Walking Tour & Virtual Activities, Here’s the Scoop on the Adorable AHS Puppy Bowl Action, Jester King Brewery: Pizza, Beer, Goats & Plenty of Space to Roam, Drive-Thru Zoos & Safari Parks Near Austin, YMCA of Austin Offers Free February Programming, Be sure to keep the kids close by. Swimming area with rope swing 08. It really is the perfect place to spend a nice hot Texas day! Get out there! Boy with dog along Barton Creek 04. You’ll take Loop 360/Capital of Texas Highway and take the on-ramp as if you’re heading south on Mopac. It is one of the area’s swimming holes and although it’s less popular than Hamilton Pool and Barton Springs you will not want to miss it! 260 reviews of Barton Creek Greenbelt "I used to live on Barton Skyway, right across the street from one of the trail heads to the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Do512 Family is all about what to do in Austin with kids. Like most spots in Austin (I LOVE this fact about our city), this spot is good for hiking and swimming. Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls MoPac Expy. If your child is fearful of dogs, be aware that there may be dogs running off-leash in these areas. Once you head down the hill at the trail access, take a left and you’ll find your way to the Flats & the Campbell’s Hole swimming spot. This four-mile hike in Austin leads to the dreamiest swimming hole. More Wildflowers 11. And if you want to explore even past Twin Falls, you will find your way to the pretty Sculpture Falls. Once parked, there is about a half-mile hike on a well-defined path to reach the watering spot. The amount of water in the Barton Creek Greenbelt varies throughout the seasons and depends on the rainfall. If you are looking for an amazing outdoor spot, check out the natural Twin Falls on the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Sculpture Falls. Barton Creek is a tributary that feeds the Colorado River as it flows through the Texas Hill Country.The creek passes through some of the more scenic areas in Greater Austin, surrounded in many parts by a greenbelt of protected lands that serves as a habitat for many indigenous species of flora and fauna. Twin Falls 13. Cookies are used for measurement, ads and optimization. The amount of water in the Barton Creek Greenbelt varies throughout the seasons and depends on the rainfall. For more info on accessing the trail, or about swimming, fishing and park rules - please visit the City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. The Barton Creek Greenbelt has multiple entrances along the creek. And when there’s enough water in the creek, there are several swimming holes locals like to enjoy. There are dozens of paths and trails to take, but nothing beats this picturesque journey. AKA Zilker Part point or Violet Crown Trailhead (more on that below) Generally thought of as the start of the Greenbelt, this access point is an easy, wide, and float hike for most. Be sure to take any trash out with you when you exit. Starting at the southwestern edge of Zilker Park, the Barton Creek Greenbelt winds through 800 acres of minimally developed land.See this map for other access points. One member, Jill Carr, swam in such cold weather that her hair froze when she exited the water! I’m already planning a day in my head. 3900 W. Frontage Rd That also means they’ll be an above average amount of joggers and bikers. 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