Violet Crown Trail, Zilker Park Trail Head

Hiking area · Zilker ·

Violet Crown Trail, Zilker Park Trail Head

Hiking area · Zilker ·

30-mile trail for hiking, biking, and running through parks

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William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746 Get directions

@cntraveler

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19 Best Things to Do in Austin

"Over 13 connected miles of flourishing green spaces start at Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt and snake down to Slaughter Creek and Dick Nichols Park. Shortly, when the 30-miles of trail with giant oaks and winding creeks is completed, it’ll be the longest in Central Texas running from downtown Austin to Onion Creek. Manicured and wild trails, paved and smoothed dirt are hiking, biking, cycling, running, or rollerblading options along with walking your dog (or family) amongst wildflowers and wildlife. Favorite spots in Barton Creek like Campbell’s Hole and the Flats as well as climbing walls, creeks and urban wildlands, open green spaces, and off-trail pathways are here to venture into. Trail maps stand at different inflection points, but because Violet Crown is extensive, each piece varies in what you see in the surrounding area." - Jonathan Thompson, Mandy Ellis

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Violet Crown Trail, Zilker Park Trail Head

JAMES N.

Google

We made a very nice 5 mile hike up the trail on 2/12/26 all the way to 290. The trail is relatively easy, just a bit of scrambling over exposed rock here and there, lots of lose rock, but level for the most part. Although Barton Creek was dry, the landscape is compelling with cliffs rising over 100 feet in places, shear enough that several climbers - free and harness - were going up or down.

Reuben R.

Google

Nice hiking trail along Barton Creek. Nicely maintained and sometimes patrolled by park rangers on mount bikes. Scenic views with mile markers. Some spots may be a challenge to beginners. Always wear proper shoes and attire. For long hikes make sure you have enough water and a full charged phone.

Google

Violet Crown Trail: Zilker Trailhead to 360 Trailhead. Absolutely beautiful trail. I started at Barton Springs, at the Zilker Trailhead. The trail is in great shape -- until the very end near 360, where some restoration is happening. Stiill, it's well marked and easy to find the path through. Great shady canopy, wide trails, most of the way. Occasional trail runners, mountain bikers, dog walkers. spots to stop and watch some rock climbing. Overall, my new plan is to park at 360 and hike to Barton Springs for a refreshing swim. Awesome!

Eduardo M.

Google

Excellent trail following Barton Creek, almost in the heart of Austin. The trailhead starts next to paid parking lot. Gorgeous views of the river and the trail is fairly even, but rocky. Stop at the flats for a good river walk on the rocks.

Alex B.

Google

A very easy place to access with the car park right next to the trail. An excellent trail to ride a mountain bike along or hike, there is a public bicycle tool station next to the trail start to maintain your bike if require (would be a good run for point to point if you take the bus with your bike to one end of the trail?) Rocky path but easy to navigate, excellent peaceful views when the river is in flow. Sure to be back again.

Ashley S.

Google

The trail itself is super nice and well done. Parking can be a nightmare if you go at peak times so best to uber or park outside the park.

Margaret G.

Google

Awesome little trail great for hiking and running. Just park at Zilker and it’s right there. There’s also a little swimming hole once you hike about half a mile or so in, which is great for humans and pets to cool off in during the warmer months. Can get a bit crowded on weekends, but shouldn’t be missed for a nature retreat right in the city.

Mimi H

Google

Hiked from Zilker to 360. Between the Gus Fruh trailhead and 360, the main trail became harder to follow and some offshoot trails led to nothing. Beautiful trail overall and felt safe as a solo hiker (weekday daytime).

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

19 Best Things to Do in Austin

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-austin

Violet Crown Trail, Zilker Park Trail Head

JAMES N.

Google

Reuben R.

Google

Eduardo M.

Google

Alex B.

Google

Ashley S.

Google

The trail itself is super nice and well done. Parking can be a nightmare if you go at peak times so best to uber or park outside the park.

Margaret G.

Google

Mimi H

Google

Violet Crown Trail, Zilker Park Trail Head

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