Biking in Austin

Austin offers a network of more than 30 miles of bike trails. Eighteen of them are on well-surfaced scenic paths following natural greenbelts into all areas of the city, making excellent trails available to all. Also, there are an additional 14 miles of natural surface trails to follow, with varied terrain for any level of biker.

The hills to the west of Austin are a popular training ground for competitive level cyclists (and a favorite with Lance Armstrong).

All trails have a curfew in effect from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. No motor vehicles are allowed at any time. Dogs must be controlled; Austin has a leash law enforced by the Austin Park Police (Rangers).

Note that helmets are required of all bicyclists cycling within the city. For maps of the seven hike-and-bike trails of Austin, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 512/499-6700 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Town Lake Greenbelt
A host of bikers enjoy Town Lake Trail because of the visual beauty of its 10 miles of granite, gravel, and concrete. Loop A, from MoPac Bridge to Lamar Boulevard is 2.9 miles; Loop B, MoPac Bridge to South 1st Street is 4.1 miles.

Waller Creek Walkway
Just east of the main downtown area, Waller Creek Walkway follows the creek from 15th Street to where it flows into Town Lake, 3/4 mile of gravel, concrete, and brick surface. The Waterloo Park area, 15th Street south to 10th street, is 1/4 mile. Lower Waller Creek Development, 10th Street south to Town Lake is 1/2 mile.

Barton Creek Greenbelt
Some bikers prefer paths that follow picturesque creeks. Here you’ll find 7.5 miles of natural surface both east and west of MoPac (Loop 1).

Duncan Park
Location: 8th–10th Sts. along Shoal Creek, Austin
The south side of the neighborhood park is outfitted with dirt features to allow motocross riders to jump and perform tricks. (Downtown Austin)

Emma Long Motorcross Park
Location:City Park Rd., Austin
Located just outside the Emma Long Metropolitan Park, this 5-mile motorcross park offers intermediate and difficult trails for mountain bikers. (Southwest Austin)

Veloway
Location:Off Slaughter Ln., Austin
The Veloway is a 3.1-mile paved asphalt loop used by bicyclists to wind through scenic parkland. Catch the Veloway from behind Bowie High School or from south Loop 1 (MoPac).

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