The best traffic-free bike rides in Travis County

There are over 75 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Travis County, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes 46 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 9 challenging routes.

Travis County offers diverse terrain. You'll find mostly paved trails like the iconic Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake, as well as the Southern Walnut Creek Trail. For more challenging rides, routes in the Texas Hill Country, such as the River Place Nature Reserve & Lake Austin loop, feature rolling hills and limestone cliffs. Many greenbelts also offer rugged paths suitable for touring.

Yes, Travis County has many family-friendly and beginner-suitable no-traffic routes. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is an excellent choice, offering a mostly flat, paved 13-mile loop with scenic views. The COTA Track Loop is another easy option, perfect for a short, traffic-free ride.

Many routes offer access to stunning natural features. You can cycle near Lady Bird Lake and Lake Austin, or explore the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country. For those interested in waterfalls, routes like the Barton Creek Sculpture Falls loop can bring you close to natural wonders like Sculpture Falls. McKinney Falls State Park also features Upper Falls and McKinney Lower Falls.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic touring routes in Travis County are designed as loops for convenience. A great example is the Short Pace Bend National Park loop, which offers stunning views of Lake Travis. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is also a popular 13-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake.

The best time for touring cycling in Travis County is typically during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April). Summers can be very hot and humid. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides comfortable weather and beautiful foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Travis County offers several difficult no-traffic routes. The River Place Nature Reserve & Lake Austin loop, for instance, features significant elevation gain and covers over 50 km. These routes often venture into the Texas Hill Country, providing more demanding terrain and rewarding views.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Travis County, with an average score of 4.68 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery, the well-maintained paved trails, and the peaceful experience of cycling away from vehicle traffic, especially along Lady Bird Lake and through the greenbelts.

Parking is generally available near popular trailheads. For the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, there are several parking lots around Lady Bird Lake, including near Zilker Park. For routes accessing the Barton Creek Greenbelt, various access points have limited parking. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed parking information and any potential fees.

While popular routes like the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail can be busy, especially on weekends, you can often find less crowded options by exploring routes further into the greenbelts or the outer edges of the Hill Country. Early mornings or weekdays are also good times to experience popular trails with fewer people. Consider routes like the Highland Hills loop with Mt. Bonnell for a mix of urban and quieter sections.

Many parks and greenbelts in Travis County are dog-friendly, but specific rules for cycling with dogs can vary. Generally, dogs on leashes are permitted on most multi-use trails. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is a popular spot for cyclists with dogs. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you carry waste bags. Check individual park regulations before you go.