Do you love outdoor activities? Are you planning to hike with your family or friends? Then, Barton Creek Greenbelt can be a perfect destination.
Barton Creek Greenbelt has the most iconic swimming hole in Austin, Texas. It also features a 1,000-acre surrounding watershed, ideal for recreational activities and as a habitat for endangered species.
Here are some of the highlights of Barton Creek Greenbelt:
- 1,000 acres of creek and springs preserved
- 1.5 million visitors per year enjoy the spring-fed Barton Spring Pool
- 4 natural springs produce more than 31 million gallons of water daily
- 12 miles of greenbelt trails
A Spring-Fed Oasis in Austin, Texas
Barton Creek Greenbelt is only a mile away from downtown Austin. This 1000-acre natural sanctuary is famous for its spring-fed swimming holes and more than 12 miles of rugged mountain biking and hiking trails, bouldering, and limestone rock climbing sites.
The Barton Spring Pool is situated at the end of the greenbelt. 4 freshwater springs feed this famous natural swimming pool is visited by more than 1.5 million tourists annually. Next blog post
The area surrounding the greenbelt has experienced several residential and commercial development since 1990. And between 1922 and 1999, around 1,000 acres of land area in the Barton Creek watershed was purchased, transforming it into one of the most visited green spaces in Austin.
Barton Creek Greenbelt protects the Edward Aquifer’s water quality and the habitat for Barton Springs salamander and three other endangered species. It is not only a unique and beautiful space to relax and enjoy, but it is a part of the watershed necessary for the economy and long-term health of the community.
Things to Do in Barton Creek Greenbelt
Barton Creek Greenbelt is a go-to destination for nature lovers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts in Austin and nearby cities. People can enjoy plenty of activities, including swimming, bouldering, rock climbing, biking, and hiking. Others can also try sunbathing on a boulder or lazily perching in a hammock.
Visitors can enjoy 12 miles of trails through different access points throughout the city. If you are new to Barton Creek Greenbelt, here are a few access points from east to west:
Zilker Park – 2201 Barton Springs Road
The greenbelt’s first section starts close to Barton Springs Pool, which is located at Zilker Park. Since it is the nearest access point to downtown Austin, it is the trail’s busy section. The first 1.2 miles are flat and wide with a few shades. Most cyclists use this part of the trail due to its width.
Campbell’s Hole – 2010 Homedale Drive from the East and Spyglass Drive from the West
Campbell’s Hole is a swimming hole with less traffic than other Barton Creek swimming spots. This section can be accessed from the east via 2010 Homedale Drive and from the west via Spyglass Drive. Please note that it has limited parking since it is near a residential neighborhood.
Gus Fruh – 2642 Barton Hills Drive
Since direct access to this site is within the residential neighborhood as well, the parking is limited. On the bright side, it is only around 1.4 miles hike from the Main Access Point. Gus Fruh is famous for its deep swimming hole and the Urban Assault, a limestone rock that climbers frequently visit. The pool can be very deep after a good rain, making it attractive among visitors who want a good swim after hiking.
Main Access Point – 3755-B Texas Highway
This greenbelt access is right along Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway. It features serval parking spaces at the trailhead. Most visitors use this entry point when going to Sculpture Fall and Twin Falls, a few miles to the west. They enjoy giant shade trees, steep cliffs, aqua swimming holes, and rocky trails along the way. Since it is frequently visited by hikers, rock climbers, mountain bikers, and individuals who love swimming, it is a trail’s highly trafficked section. Refer to This Page for More Tips
Twin Falls – 3918 S. MOPAC Expressway
This access point is a well-known trailhead with parking along the highway. From there, tourists need to hike downhill along the creek, past rock walls, and then through the lush forest. The falls are only a short hike from the trailhead, offering a perfect spot for a swim and a beautiful view.
Hill of Life and Trail’s End – 710 Camp Craft Road
Trail’s End is another access point situated at greenbelt. It is also the home of the famous Hill of Life, which is a steep downhill or uphill section of the trail that trail runners and mountain bikers love to visit. It is considered the greenbelt’s steepest section, with a 300-foot descent or ascent depending on where visitors come from.
Important Information About Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Address: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
- Phone: +1 512-974-6700
- Website: austinparks.org
Park Hours: Monday to Sunday – 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM