Our resident trying-to-be-a-hiker, Katie, is checking out every trail, swimming hole and breathtaking view in Austin. This week’s adventure was to St. Edwards Park. Spoiler Alert: she got lost and had a blast.
This post was first published in 2016 and updated in August 2021.
Photo by NA Estrada.
I am obsessed with this great city of ours for a few reasons; one of them being the fact that nearly every establishment sells breakfast tacos. Never can have too many of the best food on earth, am I right? A result I anticipated, but disregarded its importance, is the need for the many places there are to walk, sit, and sing in nature. I don’t sing, but I very well could in the joy of how many great trails there are!
This week I drove off to explore St. Edwards Park and it was absolutely fantastic.
Notice the tower of rocks towards the bottom.
Applauding you, random stranger!
The thing I sincerely liked most about this trail was that I got lost. I don’t mean to brag (I definitely do; I had plenty of chances to edit this), but I’m pretty good navigationally. I remember giving directions by pointing left or right to my grandmother out of my car seat. I’m a directional genius. So, I actually loved getting turned around. It felt like a challenge.
So! For those of you who are going to be new to this spot and not pumped about getting lost in the wilderness, follow these kind trail signs:
They keep you safe at St. Edwards, don’t you worry.
But I loved exploring and staying close to the water. Take advantage of a warm weather day and jump in the creek! It truly is a beautiful spot. There’s even a rope swing for you more adventurous daredevils.
Photo by NA Estrada.
All I can say is, please go to St. Edward’s Park if you haven’t yet. You’ll absolutely enjoy your time there. 10/10 would recommend to a friend. And you’re my friend, aren’t you? Head on over there, gang!
Want to see more of this amazing spot? Check out this video shot in the Summer of 2021.
@thatssoaustin Have you explored this Austin spot?! #gooutside #naturetiktok #naturelover #austintexas #atx #hike #swimminghole #ropeswing #waterfalls #freefun
♬ Pocketful of Sunshine – Natasha Bedingfield
St. Edwards Park Quick Facts:
- Address: 7301 Spicewood Springs Road
- Popular For: Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Swimming
- Dog-Friendly
- Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Trail Miles : 3.59
- Cost: Free
- For more information, check out the Austin Parks Foundation website.
