Hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin With Kids

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is probably the most popular place to hike in Austin. But is it doable with kids? Yes! We love taking our kids hiking along the greenbelt. Here are some tips for hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin with kids.

Twin Falls

3918 S MoPac Expy, Austin

Park along the Mopac service road, walk down until you come to the trailhead. From there, it’s a short walk down the hill to the falls, which will be flowing depending upon how much rain we’ve had recently.

Sculpture Falls

These falls can be accessed by parking where you would for Twin Falls, then continuing along the trail about a mile north. It can take about 25 minutes for faster walkers, but might take much longer for slower walkers with kids who stop to explore/snack/rest along the way.

Campbell’s Hole

This is one of our favorite entry points because of its proximity to one of our favorite taco joints in town- Taco Deli! Park on the street nearby the trailhead, pick up some tacos, and head out for a picnic along the trail. We’ve only been here when the creek was dry, but it was still fun! The boys loved jumping across the holes from rock to rock.

Gus Fruh

Park along the street near the trailhead. When the water is full and flowing, this might be our favorite spot. There’s a rope swing, a couple of caves, rock climbing, swimming, and hiking. Plus, the hike down to the water is very short, making it super easy to do with kids.

Lost Creek

Lost Creek is a lovely little trail to do with kids, because it’s a pretty short hike and there are plenty of shallow water entry points along the creek. Park at Bend Of The River Drive on the right, just before the Lost Creek Country Club entrance and head down under the bridge on the left to find the trailhead. Sometimes they charge for this hike, but I think if you get there before 11 it’s free. Don’t forget to grab a delicious shaved ice from Woody’s while you’re out this way!

More tips

• Check GREENBELTNOW for updates on water levels and water safety.
• Pack sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, trash bag, water, towels, a change of clothes.
• Wear sturdy water hiking shoes (think Keens or Tevas).
• Be care with what type of water you let your kids swim/splash/play in. Typically, slow or stagnant water isn’t safe. Neither is water rushing from a day of rain (due to run-off). It’s best to wait a few days after a heavy rainfall before playing.

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