Austin, nestled in the Hill Country of Texas, offers a plethora of dog-friendly state parks and hiking trails. The sheer convenience of these locations, including the nearby McKinney Falls State Park and popular hiking trails like Shoal Creek, makes them perfect for a quick and hassle-free outdoor adventure with your furry friend.
We’ve created a list of our favorite dog-friendly spots for you and your dog to enjoy.
Shoal Creek Trail
As Austin’s oldest trail, this 3.7-mile nature hike through Pease and Duncan Parks offers breathtaking views of Texa’s State Capital and Downtown Austin. The scenic beauty of the Colorado River provides many photo opportunities with your dog, making it a memorable experience. The trail is moderately difficult, with some uneven terrain, but it is suitable for most dogs and their owners.
Off-street parking is available at the northern end, with the northern entrance located on W. 38th St. Austin Library Parking Garage and the nearby Randall’s Supermarket are also popular parking places.
Mueller Lake Park
Mueller Lake Park offers a 3-mile paved walking trail with access to food trucks, a Texas farmer’s market on Sundays, and some nice green space to explore. Mueller is also home to many dog-friendly restaurants, providing a diverse and exciting experience for you and your dog. With so much to see and do, you and your dog are in for a thrilling day out.
There is ample off-street parking, including the Mueller Town Center parking garage and spaces next to the food trucks on the airport’s boulevard side.
McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls is a large state park 13 miles from Austin’s downtown. It has two waterfalls and multiple picnic grounds. The park is dog-friendly, with leashed dogs allowed on its hiking trails. However, Dogs are not allowed to swim in the water.
McKinney’s hiking trails are also great spots to see Bluebonnets from late February to early April. We are offering beautiful photo opportunities for you and your dog.
Zilker Park
Downtown Austin is home to Zilker Park. It’s very dog-friendly, with 45 acres dedicated to off-leash dogs. However, the Park is not fenced, so please ensure your dog is well-trained.
A nearby hiking trail at Lady Bird Lake and a popular dog water area affectionately called “Barking Springs” are located down the staircase near the east of Zilker Park playground. This area is a favorite among local dog owners, offering a refreshing spot for your dog to cool off during the hot summer months.
Some final tips:
For those new to the Austin area, it can be sweltering, with the average day from June to September reaching the 90s. You may need to keep your hikes short and shaded. The best times to visit these locations are early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are more relaxed.
Algae has been an issue in Austin waterways. To ensure your dog’s safety, please check for warning signs and thoroughly wash your dog at home afterward. These precautions are essential for a worry-free and enjoyable outdoor adventure. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your dog.
We recommend bringing a portable dog bowl with you. You can find portable bowls on Amazon and most pet retailers.
