Austin has earned its reputation as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. The proof is in the trails.
From shaded creekside paths to rugged Hill Country terrain, the city offers dozens of options for hiking with your dog. Some trails let your pup run free. Others require a leash but reward you with waterfalls, swimming holes, and views of the downtown skyline.
This guide covers seven of the best dog hikes in Austin. You'll find off-leash trails for social dogs who love to roam, plus on-leash options for pups who prefer a more controlled adventure.
What Makes a Great Dog-Friendly Trail in Austin
Not all trails work equally well for dogs. The best ones share a few key features.
Water access matters more here than in most cities. Austin summers regularly hit the 90s, and dogs overheat quickly on exposed trails. Creeks, swimming holes, and shaded paths help keep temperatures manageable.
Clear leash policies prevent confusion. Some Austin trails are entirely off-leash. Others have designated off-leash sections. Many require leashes throughout. Knowing before you go saves hassle.
Trail surface affects paw comfort. Rocky limestone terrain is common in the Hill Country. Flat, paved paths work better for older dogs or puppies.
Crowd levels influence the experience. Popular trails like Lady Bird Lake get busy on weekends. Quieter options like Onion Creek District Park offer more relaxed outings.
7 Best Dog Hikes in Austin
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park (Off-Leash)
Walnut Creek is the gold standard for off-leash hiking in Austin. The 294-acre park offers over 15 miles of multi-use trails winding through woods, creek crossings, and open meadows.
The designated off-leash area is massive. Dogs can splash in the creek, explore shaded groves, and socialize with other pups. The trails range from flat and easy to moderately challenging with some elevation.
Location: North Austin, near I-35 and Braker Lane
Best for: Social dogs who love water and room to run
Note: Mountain bikers share these trails. Keep an eye on your dog and yield appropriately.
Visit Walnut Creek Metro Park for more information.
Turkey Creek Trail at Emma Long Metropolitan Park (Off-Leash)
Turkey Creek Trail consistently ranks among Austin's best hiking trails for good reason. The 2.7-mile loop winds through dense woodlands, across rocky creek crossings, and past fern-lined oases.
The entire trail is off-leash. Dogs can wade through the creek at multiple points and explore varied terrain from shaded forest to open Hill Country.
Location: West Austin, off City Park Road
Best for: Adventurous dogs comfortable with creek crossings and uneven terrain
Note: The park charges an entrance fee on weekends.
View park details on City of Austin
Red Bud Isle (Off-Leash)
Red Bud Isle is a 17-acre island in the Colorado River that has gone entirely to the dogs. The whole island is an off-leash area with a half-mile loop trail along the water's edge.
Tall cypress and pecan trees provide shade throughout. Dogs can swim, fetch sticks from the water, and explore at their own pace. The relatively flat terrain works well for dogs of all ages and fitness levels.
Location: West Austin, accessible via Red Bud Trail
Best for: Water-loving dogs and owners seeking a relaxed atmosphere
Note: Parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends. Arrive early.
McKinney Falls State Park (On-Leash)
McKinney Falls offers over 10 miles of hiking trails just 13 miles from downtown. The paved Onion Creek Trail is the most popular option, looping 3.7 miles past scenic overlooks and the park's namesake waterfalls.
Dogs must stay on-leash throughout the park. They're not allowed in the swimming areas, but the shaded trails and creek views make this a worthwhile destination regardless.
Location: Southeast Austin, off McKinney Falls Parkway
Best for: Dogs comfortable on paved paths; great for seeing bluebonnets in spring
Note: Online reservations are recommended. There's an entrance fee.
View park details on Texas Parks & Wildlife
Barton Creek Greenbelt (On-Leash)
The Barton Creek Greenbelt stretches over 12 miles through some of Austin's most varied terrain. The trail passes limestone bluffs, natural swimming holes, and two waterfalls: Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls.
Dogs must remain on-leash. The terrain is rocky and rugged in sections, so bring sturdy shoes. Water levels in the creek vary seasonally. Some swimming holes dry up completely in summer.
Location: Multiple trailheads; Spyglass and Zilker are popular entry points
Best for: Active dogs who enjoy rocky terrain and exploring
Note: Check water levels before you go. The creek may be dry in late summer.
Shoal Creek Trail (Partial Off-Leash)
The Shoal Creek Trail runs seven miles through varied urban, forest, and creekside landscapes. It connects multiple city parks and eventually links to the Lady Bird Lake trail system.
The trail's standout feature for dog owners is the one-mile off-leash section between 24th and 29th Streets. Dogs can run free here while the rest of the trail requires a leash.
Location: Central Austin, running north-south through the city
Best for: Dogs who want off-leash time without leaving the urban core
Note: The trail surface is mixed. Some sections are paved; others are natural.
Onion Creek District Park (Off-Leash)
Onion Creek District Park flies under the radar compared to Austin's more famous trails. That's part of its appeal. The 170-acre park offers four miles of off-leash trails in a peaceful, less-crowded setting.
Wide-open spaces and easy creek access make this a great spot for dogs who prefer sniffing and exploring to intense exercise. The atmosphere is noticeably calmer than busier off-leash areas.
Location: Southeast Austin, off Onion Creek Drive
Best for: Dogs who prefer quieter environments; owners seeking a relaxed outing
Tips for Hiking with Your Dog in Austin
Beat the Heat
Austin summers are brutal. Trail temperatures can exceed 100 degrees on exposed paths.
Hike early morning or late evening during summer months. Stick to shaded trails with water access. Bring a collapsible bowl and plenty of water for both you and your dog.
Watch for signs of overheating: excessive panting, slowing down, or lying in the shade. Stop immediately if you notice these behaviors.
Check for Algae Warnings
Blue-green algae has been a recurring issue in Austin waterways. It can be fatal to dogs who drink contaminated water.
Check for posted warnings at trailheads before letting your dog swim. When in doubt, keep your dog out of the water. Rinse your dog thoroughly after any creek exposure.
Do a Tick Check
Trails like Turkey Creek and McKinney Falls run through thick brush where ticks thrive. After every hike, check your dog's ears, armpits, and between toes.
Bring tweezers and antiseptic wipes in your pack. Remove ticks promptly and monitor for any signs of illness in the following days.
Respect Trail Etiquette
Keep your dog leashed on trails that require it. Yield to mountain bikers on shared trails. Always clean up after your pet.
Even on off-leash trails, maintain voice control of your dog. Not every dog or person on the trail wants to interact with an off-leash pup.
View all Austin off-leash dog areas
Find More Dog-Friendly Spots in Austin
Austin's trails offer something for every dog, from water-loving retrievers to senior pups who prefer a gentle stroll. Whether you're chasing waterfalls at Barton Creek or letting your dog roam free at Red Bud Isle, the city delivers.
Explore more dog-friendly places in Austin on Tailmate, including restaurants, patios, and parks where your pup is welcome.
