We’ve been taking lots of big hikes in the Texas Hill Country during the pandemic, many of which require advance reservations and lots of planning ahead. Of course these have been fun and exciting, but sometimes we just need an easy, centrally-located, free place to regroup with the family, enjoy the outdoors, and take a little nature walk. A short hike along the Shoal Creek Trail is just the right thing!

Built in the early 1960s, the Shoal Creek Trail is the city’s oldest hike & bike trail. The popular part of the trail includes 4 miles of terrain from 38th Street to Lady Bird, passing Pease Park along the way, but the Creek itself is is an 11-mile waterway that springs from the ground in north Austin near Highway 183 and meanders through neighborhoods, past Seton Hospital near 38th Street and the western edge of the University of Texas to downtown Austin. (map)

One highlight of the trail is the small canyon near the northern end which our own team frequently visits for a quick & easy nature walk. To access this part of the trail, you can park near Bailey Park and enter the trail at the corner of N. Lamar Blvd. and 31st St. — just at the Renner Project’s sign featuring a raccoon that says “You are Awesome.”

As soon as you pass through this entrance, you’ll be amazed to be stepping into a small canyon. The rock overhangs are so impressive and make you feel like you’ve transported yourself far from the city. Be sure to watch your head as you pass through, as some spots are very low. Also note that lots of people jog and bike through the trail, so be sure to keep an eye out and instruct the kids to move over to the side to let them through.

You can walk through this really cool section of the trail until you reach Pease Park. The kids can look for natural treasures along the path. (On past walks, we’ve seen long snake skins, cool fossils, and giant spiders.) Once you get to Pease Park, the path is well paved and there are plenty of places to enjoy looking into the creek, climbing trees, running around in Live Oak Meadow, or having a picnic. (Keep in mind that the Pease Park play area, Kingsbury Commons, is currently closed, but will be re-opening with a fun new amenities in the Spring of 2021).

Many times, we only walk about a mile on this little “hike”. But the beauty of this walk is that you can have such a great time with such little effort. You don’t have to make a day of it, or even pack any gear (although taking drinking water is always a good idea). It’s simply nice to drive 10 minutes from home and take a short nature walk that makes us feel like we’re out exploring.

You can learn much more about Shoal Creek by visiting the Shoal Creek Conservancy website, where you’ll find more information about the many notable areas of the creek along with exciting plans for future improvements.