North Austin
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
A large network of looping dirt trails in North Austin, shared with mountain bikers. Great for practicing turns, short climbs and trail awareness.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Surface
- Dirt singletrack, roots, some rocky sections
- Shade
- Mixed shade
- Best for
- Winding singletrack and a big trail network
Know before you go
- Trails are shared with cyclists. Stay alert, keep to one side and avoid headphones in both ears.
- The network has many intersecting loops; download a map or use a GPS app on your first visit.
- The park has an off-leash dog area, so expect friendly dogs near the trailheads.
Your first run here
Choose one marked loop, run it slowly, and note landmarks so you can find your way back.
What to expect
Walnut Creek is a favorite with mountain bikers and trail runners. The trails are mostly dirt and twisty, with rolling terrain that makes for a fun, moderate run. It is a great place to practice turning, cornering and short hills without big rocks.
A sample 40-minute workout
- Walk 5 minutes to warm up.
- Run 3 minutes easy, walk 1 minute, repeating for 30 minutes and walking every steep bit.
- Finish with a 5-minute walk and stretch.
Sharing with bikes
Bikes are common and fast. Stay alert, listen, step aside to let them pass and be predictable. Wear bright colors and keep the volume low. Learn which direction each trail is ridden, if the park posts it.
Shade, sun and heat
There is some shade, but many stretches are open. Go early in summer and bring plenty of water.
Navigation
The network of interconnected trails can be confusing. Take a photo of the trail map at the entrance, use an offline map, and note junctions. Stick to one loop on your first visit.
After rain
Trails can be closed or muddy after rain. Riding and running on muddy trails damages them, so check the park’s notices and choose a hard surface if it is wet.
Common mistakes
- Getting lost and adding an extra 20 minutes to your run.
- Wearing headphones on shared trails.
- Forgetting water because it is “close to the road.”
Want a guide the first time? Join a small-group clinic, or follow the 4-week plan.
Conditions change. Check official City of Austin park and trail updates before you go, and never cross flooded water. Trail running carries inherent risk; run within your ability.