40 Ways to Get Outside in Austin This Spring

1 / Jump into Krause Springs

It doesn’t get much more joyful than grabbing a rope swing and leaping into the cooling waters of Krause Springs on a sunny day. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Sites, this Hill Country hideaway in Spicewood features 32 springs on property that feed both manmade and natural pools. The water stays a refreshing 68 degrees all year (the park is open mid-February through early November). When you go, stay on dry land long enough to explore the majestic butterfly garden. krausesprings.net

2 / Enjoy Sunday Free Flow

Cap off your weekend with downward-facing dog, mountain pose, and plenty of sun salutations as you relish a free outdoor yoga class. Swift Fit Social’s longest-running fitness series happens every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. downtown with a guided vinyasa flow at the Fareground’s courtyard. After the class, refuel with coffee and bites at the on-site food hall. RSVP required. swiftfitevents.com/swift-fit-social

3 / Reach the Summit at River Place Nature Trail

Perhaps the hardest hiking trail around Austin, this Jonestown-area attraction has been playfully referred to as a “natural StairMaster.” The popular climb includes more than 2,700 wooden steps to the summit, making it a nearly 6-mile round-trip hike. While your calves will surely burn for a day or two after, the effort is worth it for a great aerobic workout among Hill Country creeks and a hidden waterfall. Should you prefer to stop hiking once you reach the top of River Place Nature Trail, plan ahead: There’s a parking lot on the summit available for pick-ups. riverplacelimiteddistrict.org/trails

4 / Climb Enchanted Rock

Unless you’ve been living under a, well, rock, you’ve probably heard of this magical dome. Located in the heart of the Hill Country, the awe-inspiring pink granite batholith is estimated to be 1 billion years old and was formed when hot magma rose through existing metamorphic rock. In addition to climbing or hiking to the 425-foot summit, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers stellar camping and fishing as well as birding, with more than 60 avian species in the park. Head to the Fredericksburg-area attraction in springtime to see vibrant wildflowers and escape the brutal temperatures of the summer months. While the natural wonder draws guests near and far during the daytime, don’t sleep on its star-gazing potential: The International Dark Sky Park is also a dazzling place to soak in celestial magic at night. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock

5 / Go Glamping at Lake Bastrop South Shore Park

For those who love spending a weekend in nature but are less excited about, say, sleeping on the ground, the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) has a shiny new solution. Located at Lake Bastrop South Shore Park, its ÖÖD Mirror Houses are two new glamping domiciles that debuted last summer. The luxe 221-square-foot structures operated by Cameron Ranch Glamping include a queen memory foam bed, full bathroom, dining table, kitchenette, and record player. Cook on the charcoal grill or cozy up by your own fire pit under the stars. With a unique floor-to-ceiling mirrored design on the exterior, you’ll feel as though you’re sleeping in the trees. And don’t forget Fido: The accommodations are pet friendly. lcraparks.com/parks/lake-bastrop-south-shore-park

6 / Get Zen at the Rowing Dock

Picture this: You’re floating on the lake under the glow of the moonlight as the hum of vibrations soothes you into a peaceful lull. During Rowing Dock’s spellbinding sound baths led by ATX Yoga Girl founder Cynthia Aguillón Bernard, guests lie down on their own paddleboard as Bernard uses Quartz bowls to create a melodic masterpiece. Because vibrations travel faster on water than air and the gentle rocking on the waves under the board creates a feeling of weightlessness, the sensory experience becomes unforgettable—and often therapeutic. For those who can’t make the full moon sound baths, Rowing Dock and Bernard also offer private classes for groups up to 12 people. rowingdock.com/floating-soundbath

7 / Pick Strawberries at Sweet Berry Farm

Harken back to a simpler time at this cherished Marble Falls farm, where you can take the little ones to pluck juicy fruit in the springtime. Buy a basket and traverse the strawberry fields (forever!) as you pick the sweet fruit from leafy plants. While you’re there, take an adorable ride on the barrel train or buy a cup of food to feed the on-site goats. The farm also sells homemade ice cream and popsicles made with its own signature strawberries. sweetberryfarm.com

8 / Bond with East Side Beer Runners

Joggers might be inspired to go the extra mile if there’s a frosty brew at the end of their run. Join this community group, which meets on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. (often at Central Machine Works Brewery) and on Sundays at various locations for trail runs. The workout usually covers about 3 to 5 miles and then finishes over a beer. This calls for a toast! Check Instagram for up-to-date details. instagram.com/esbrunnersatx

9-12 / Attend a Spring Festival

As Austinites relish temperate days before triple-digit heat takes over, the city becomes chock full of spectacular outdoor gatherings during the month of April. Locals descend upon Zilker Park to hang out underneath thousands of colorful flying kites during ABC Kite Fest (April 11), the nation’s longest-running festival of its kind (est. 1929). Don your finest floral frock or seersucker suit as you stroll through the verdant sculpture garden at the annual Umlauf Garden Party (April 16). During the alfresco soiree, guests can sip wine and try bites from the city’s best restaurants. For those who want to break a sweat alongside more than 20,000 other runners, lace up your tennis shoes for the Statesman Cap10K (April 12)—or watch all the action as athletes run 6.2 miles to the sounds of cheering spectators and live bands peppered along the course. Looking for splendor in the grass? Sign up for Waterloo Greenway’s Pop-Up Picnic (April 18), where you can order a gourmet picnic basket from area restaurants to enjoy on a blanket in Waterloo Park. abckitefest.org; umlaufsculpture.org; cap10k.com; waterloogreenway.org

13 / Explore Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

Even the most in-the-know local will occasionally find a hidden gem and think “I can’t believe this is in Austin!” That’s how you’ll feel while traversing Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center. Visitors walk from an arid savannah through a limestone crevice into a lush world that feels straight out of FernGully. Hear the roaring sounds of the 40-foot waterfall as you go behind the cascade into a cave. The 1-mile guided hike is by reservation only and can be booked on westcave.org.

14 / See the Bluebonnets at Willow City Loop

As the late Tom Petty once sang, “You belong among the wildflowers.” Feast your eyes on a sea of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, Mexican poppies, winecups, and firewheels while driving through this gorgeous stretch in March through early May. The two-lane ranch road meanders through 13 miles of stunning blooms along bucolic rolling hills. To get there from Fredericksburg, head north on State Route 16 for approximately 13 miles to Willow City, go east on Ranch Road 1323 for nearly 3 miles, then turn left onto Willow City Loop. Trust us, it’s worth the trek. fredericksburgtexas-online.com/plan-your-trip/willow-city-loop

15 / Marvel the Murals at Hope Outdoor Gallery

A fan-favorite graffiti art park from 2010 to 2019, Hope Outdoor Gallery has risen from the ashes and emerged anew in far East Austin. Now located in a massive 8-acre open-air space near the airport that debuted in November, the gallery features vibrant large-scale murals from more than 30 professional artists as well as open walls for creatives of all levels to make their mark. Follow Hope Outdoor Gallery on social media for information on upcoming art education classes, dynamic community events, and electronic music shows. instagram.com/hopeoutdoorgallery

16 / View the Peacocks at Mayfield Park

Brimming in iridescent hues of cobalt and teal, the stunning peacocks that meander through Mayfield Park are reason enough to visit this tucked-away escape off 35th Street. Traverse the hiking trail and walk past the lily ponds of the 23-acre preserve in springtime when the wildflowers bloom across the grounds. The peafowl will let you get just close enough to snap a picture—but then resign yourself to leave the finely feathered specimens alone to roam in all their majestic beauty. mayfieldpark.org

17 / Admire Hamilton Pool

Nothing short of awe-inspiring, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a bona fide natural treasure. Formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to erosion, the pool and grotto feature a stunning 50-foot waterfall. Wear sturdy shoes for the rocky, quarter-mile hike past bald cypress trees as you head to the pool. (Take note that swimming is only available on select days depending on water quality.) Make a reservation for a morning or afternoon time slot before driving to the Dripping Springs delight, which is about 30 miles west of Austin. parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve

18 / Walk on the New Wishbone Bridge

Referred to by both its proper name, Lady Bird Lake, and popular former name, Town Lake, the downtown waterway formed by a river-like reservoir on the Colorado River is a go-to spot for locals to exercise. And now, there’s a new reason to visit the beloved Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. This February, the city unveiled a bridge and underpass along the trail called the Wishbone Bridge and Unity Underpass. Nearly half a mile long, the new Y-shaped structure connects three key destinations along the trail: Longhorn Shores, Canturbury, and the Holly  Peninsula in Town Lake Metropolitan Park. Check out the public art along the underpass, which features contributions from more than 200 locals. On the 10-mile trail, runners, pedestrians, and bikers can soak in breathtaking skyline views while breaking a sweat. austintexas.gov/page/lady-bird-lake

19 / Do Yoga with Goats at Jester King Brewery

Sure, it’s fun to sip a beer in the sunshine with your crew at Jester King. But arguably the biggest draw to the West Austin brewery is its adorable hooved residents. Home to 74 Nigerian dwarf goats, Jester King hosts regular guided goat walks and even offers recurring doom metal goat yoga featuring an hourlong class with the baby farm animals and “the sludgiest of riffs.” Bleats and beats? You bet! jesterkingbrewery.com

20-22 / Dine Alfresco

Awash with budding trees and blooming wildflowers, there’s no better season than spring to enjoy a meal outdoors in Austin. Watch peacocks roam past you as you sit beneath live oaks and dine at one of the restaurants at Green Pastures, a treasured 6-acre Bouldin Creek destination that recently debuted an inn designed by Clayton Korte. Savor international bites from DEE DEE, Veracruz All Natural, and Bun Bun Burger at Leona Botanical Café & Bar, where you can settle in an Adirondack chair and listen to the water flowing and leaves rustling in the outdoor oasis. For an unforgettable sushi experience, discover Foodie + Tina’s 14-course pop-up omakase featuring sustainably sourced fish and produce plucked on-site at their South Austin market garden. In addition to their 10-seat pop-up experience, the owners (farmer Becca Seiler and chef Spencer Brown) plan to open a limited-service lunch concept on South Lamar in March. greenpasturesaustin.com; leonacafebar.com; instagram.com/foodieytina

23 / Howl at Full Moon Night Swim

An essential item on any Austin bucket list, the monthly full moon swim at Barton Springs Pool is a sacred ritual for locals. Jump into the crisp 68-degree waters and float under the glow of the moonlight as fellow swimmers literally howl toward the night sky. Pro tip: Arrive at 9 p.m. or after for free entry (just don’t be too late—the pool closes at 10)! austintexas.gov/department/barton-springs-pool

24 / Meet Friends at No Girl Walks Alone

Get your steps in, socialize, or just enjoy the safety of a group activity during these free weekly strolls in downtown Austin. The nonprofit hosts a walk every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. that meets at Mañana Coffee. Although participants are welcome to bring their pals, many women come alone and can meet new friends along the way. Dogs and strollers are welcome. Ages 18 and up; RSVP required. nogirlwalksalone.com

25 / Soak at Ottine Mineral Springs

Though it’s located less than 60 miles from Austin, Ottine Mineral Springs feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. Soothe your senses as you submerge into five pools of varying temperatures at the wellness space, which is famed for its thermal mineral-rich soaks from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. The outdoor oasis boasts a cozy on-site spa, plus a dry sauna and refreshing cold plunge for contrast therapy. After a long day of lounging, recharge with wood-fired pizzas and cheese plates at the alfresco cafe. ottinemineralsprings.com

26 / Glide Through the Veloway

Ready to have a party on wheels? Strap on some rollerblades or grab your bike to explore this 3.1-mile tract in Southwest Austin. Located at Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park next to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the paved 5K loop is specifically designed to accommodate cyclists and inline skaters, with no foot traffic or dogs allowed. Look for deer and even road runners as you glide along the undulating Veloway, which is open daily from dawn to dusk. austintexas.gov/department/veloway

27 / Have a Pint with Your Pooch at BARk House Social

Bow, wow! Opened last summer, this private off-leash dog park in East Austin features a full-service bar and on-site food truck for humans, plus plenty of eats for your furry best friend (think goat milk doggy ice cream). Socialize during regular events like paint your own pet tarot cards, trivia nights, and breed-specific meetups, or just soak in the sunshine as your pooch gets the zoomies at the 1-acre turf dog park. While memberships are encouraged, BARk House does provide day passes. Dogs must be vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and at least four months old to enter. barkhouseatx.com

28 / Chase Waterfalls at Gorman Falls

Located about two hours northwest of Austin, Colorado Bend State Park is a bit of a drive from the capital city, but it still beckons urban dwellers with its mesmerizing cascades. Invigorate your senses as you brave a challenging hike through rocky terrain and a steep descent that leads to Gorman Falls, a towering 70-foot spring-fed waterfall. Sturdy shoes and a water bottle are a must for the trek—but just like the hike, the falls will take your breath away. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/colorado-bend

29 / Take Flight with Lake Travis Zipline Adventures

Feel the need for speed? Sail above the treetops on the longest and fastest zipline in the state! At the finale of a three-hour, five-zipline experience over Lake Travis, participants can race their friends on a side-by-side, 2,800-foot-long double barrel shotgun line that reaches 65 mph. For a nighttime twist, glide under the glow of the sky during the evening full moon tour that happens once a month. ziplaketravis.com

30 / Camp at McKinney Falls State Park

There’s no shortage of activities at McKinney Falls. From bird watching and bouldering to hiking and road biking on nearly 9 miles of trails, the state park encourages exploration. Cool off by taking a dip into Onion Creek before you head home—it’s located within Austin city limits—or better yet, stay the night: McKinney Falls has 81 campsites with water and electric hookups, plus six newly remodeled cabins. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls

31 / See Miles and Miles of Texas on the Violet Crown Trail

Everything’s bigger in the Lone Star State, including the grand vision for the Violet Crown Trail (VCT). Already two decades in the making, the ambitious Hill Country Conservancy endeavor began in 2006 with a goal to create the first regional trail system in Central Texas. Currently, VCT is 13 miles long and runs from Zilker Park to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. But the growth continues as the pathway will traverse a 30-mile expanse that passes through the Barton Creek Wilderness Park and city of Sunset Valley all the way into Hays County. Hike, run, or cycle through the pathway; for avid mountain bikers, the 290 Trailhead features technical switchbacks and steep climbs that have even garnered the National Interscholastic Cycling Association’s seal of approval. Just take note: Because the area is so large, trailgoers should check the map before they arrive to find locations of water fountains and designated restrooms for when nature calls (so to speak). violetcrowntrail.com

32 / Hang Out in Waterloo Park

With all due respect to Zilker, Austin deserved more than one majestic park in the heart of the city. The revitalization of 11-acre Waterloo Park has made the greenspace an essential locale for picnics, playdates, and live music. Kids love exploring its Kitty King Powell Lawn, which includes sprouts of imaginatively large blades of grass and a hillside stone slide made of granite that stays cool even in the summer heat. Catch incredible concerts this spring at on-site Moody Amphitheater, such as Billboard Presents The Stage at SXSW (March 13-15), Rainbow Kitten Surprise (March 25), Bob Moses & Cannons (April 3), and Austin Blues Festival (April 25-26). While the completion of Waterloo Park was part of phase one of Waterloo Greenway, the project will eventually feature 35 acres of connected greenspace from 15th Street all the way to Lady Bird Lake. Mark your calendar for the opening of The Confluence, the second phase of Waterloo Greenway, on June 6. waterloogreenway.org

33 / Ride Horses at Southern Trail Rides

Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl as you saddle up for a memorable equine ride in Manor. Pass by oak trees, creeks, and cows atop an American Quarter Horse as you roam across the 120-acre ranch that was once a filming location for Lonesome Dove. Form a core memory for kids aged 10 and under by signing up for the hourlong Little Dude Ride experience, featuring 20 minutes of brushing followed by a lesson and trail ride. The company also has a Canyon Lake outpost that rides through the “Devil’s Backbone” limestone ridge. Yeehaw! southerntrailrides.com

34 / Defy Gravity at Reimers Ranch Park

A haven for sport climbing, this once-private ranch filled with world-class limestone cliffs has been a favorite place to reach new heights since becoming a public park space in the mid-aughts. Reimers Ranch in Dripping Springs features hundreds of routes, from beginner-friendly 5.4 courses on the Yosemite Decimal System up to 5.14-rated routes. The park also lures in fishing enthusiasts to catch white bass in the Pedernales River, as well as astrophysics fans, who can learn about the universe from astronomy educators and view the galaxy through two large telescopes at Reimers Observatory. parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/reimers-ranch

35 / Have a Staycation at Melrose River Club

Equal parts calming and invigorating, the San Marcos River is known for its dazzling clear waters. Spend a weekend by the spring-fed river from the comfort of your own stylish cabin or casita at this new boutique hotel. Located on 12 acres, Melrose River Club features riverbank walking trails, yoga by the water, inviting fire pits, and cozy cabanas next to the resort-style pool. Time your stay for its monthly supper club, an alfresco meal served in the poolside pavilion featuring local chefs like Colter Peck (Elementary), Chef Diego (Paella ATX), and Kelyn Egbuka (Kelyn’s). For a celebration—or just a staycation treat—swing by the lobby to buy a mini bottle of bubbly from its retro-inspired Champagne vending machine. melroseriverclub.com

36 / Explore Barton Creek Greenbelt

One of the most beloved nature spots in the city, Barton Creek Greenbelt needs no introduction. Here, locals can splash around its spring-fed swimming holes, hike the scenic trails, bike alongside the rugged cliffs, and rock climb on the limestone crag. The South Austin greenbelt is home to several endangered species, from the Barton Springs salamander to the Golden-cheeked Warbler. Blast Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” at the Trail’s End access point, where you can hoof it up the Hill of Life’s infamous 300-foot climb. austintexas.gov/department/barton-creek-greenbelt

37 / Stroll the Grounds at Zilker Botanical Garden

Whether you’ve lived in Austin for decades or just visited for ACL Fest, you’re likely familiar with the city’s most iconic metropolitan greenspace, Zilker Park. But did you realize that just west of the park is a tranquil hideaway filled with butterfly gardens, bonsai trees, and waterfalls? Zilker Botanical Garden features a lush 28-acre destination shaded by live oak trees with twisting pathways that undulate past thousands of native and cultivated plants. Explore the koi-filled ponds and peer a little closer in the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, where several of the serene pools are shaped to spell out the word “AUSTIN.” zilkergarden.org

38-40 / Unwind Outside at a Wellness Resort

At three of the city’s top spa destinations, guests can do more than just luxuriate with facials and massages. The calming shorelines next to Lake Austin Spa Resort are the perfect setting for scenic boats cruises, paddleboard yoga, and playful scavenger hunts on the water via kayak or Hydrobike. Hit the links at one of Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa’s four golf courses, from the newly renovated par-72 Fazio Canyons to the scenic Coore & Crenshaw course co-designed by Masters champ Ben Crenshaw, then cool off in its trio of pools. Nestled among 220 verdant acres of the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, Miraval Austin Resort & Spa beckons adventure seekers with hatchet throwing, horseback riding, and moonlight meditations. Of course, if you’d prefer to just admire views of Lake Travis from the hilltop infinity pools, we’d hardly blame you. lakeaustin.com; omnihotels.com/hotels/austin-barton-creek; miravalresorts.com/austin