Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
4.6
(9107)
9,108
hikers
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
04:08
16.3km
40m
Hiking
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail offers a delightful urban escape, tracing a 10.1-mile (16.3 km) loop around Lady Bird Lake. You'll wander along tree-lined paths and over a unique 1.3-mile boardwalk directly above the water, enjoying constant views of the Austin skyline. With only 147 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain, this moderate route is mostly flat and accessible, making it a perfect 4-hour and 8-minute outing for a leisurely stroll or a family adventure.
This popular trail has numerous access points and parking options, and it's well-served by public transport, making it easy to get to. Given its popularity, an early morning start or a late afternoon visit is often best to enjoy a more peaceful experience. Amenities like restrooms and drinking fountains are conveniently located along the route, ensuring a comfortable journey.
More than just a path, this trail is a vibrant urban oasis, celebrated for its blend of natural beauty and city life. You might spot kayakers on the lake, pass by the iconic Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue, or even catch the famous bat emergence from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in summer. It's a true Austin gem, offering a unique mix of recreation and culture.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.99 km
Blunn Creek Delta
Highlight • River
Tip by
3.66 km
Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
5.14 km
Barton Creek joins Colorado River
Highlight • River
Tip by
5.79 km
Lou Neff Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.5 km
Longhorn Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
16.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.1 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
11.2 km
4.98 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 18 July
34°C
26°C
13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail?
The trail is easily accessible from various points around Lady Bird Lake. You can find parking at locations like Zilker Metropolitan Park, which connects directly to the trail. There are also numerous public parking garages and street parking options in downtown Austin near different trail access points.
Is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is very dog-friendly. Many people enjoy walking their dogs here. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash and remember to clean up after them to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best time to visit the trail?
The trail is popular year-round. For pleasant temperatures, consider visiting in the spring or fall. Mornings are generally less crowded and offer beautiful views, especially from The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake. If you're hoping to see the famous bat colony, plan your visit between March and October around sunset near the Congress Avenue Bridge.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. It's a public recreational area open for everyone to enjoy.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The trail offers a varied surface. While some sections are paved, the majority consists of hard-packed dirt. It's largely flat with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for most users. There is one notable 'steep' hill near I-35.
What can I see along the route?
The trail offers diverse scenery, from the Austin skyline to natural landscapes. You'll pass by highlights such as Blunn Creek Delta, the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue, and the point where Barton Creek joins Colorado River. Don't miss the impressive Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake and various public art installations.
Are there any good viewpoints or landmarks?
Absolutely! The trail features several excellent viewpoints. Lou Neff Point and Longhorn Point offer great perspectives of Lady Bird Lake and the city skyline. The Boardwalk also provides unobstructed views of the water and downtown Austin.
Does the trail connect to other paths?
Yes, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail connects to several other significant Austin locations and paths. It offers feeder trails such as the Shoal Creek Trail and provides access to Zilker Metropolitan Park. The route also passes through sections of the Lance Armstrong Crosstown Bikeway and The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. Its largely flat terrain and minimal elevation changes make it accessible for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. Many areas are also ADA accessible.
Are there restrooms and water fountains available?
Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find restrooms, drinking fountains, and rest areas conveniently located along the route, especially in popular sections and near parks.
What wildlife might I see along the trail?
The trail is an urban oasis, so you can often spot various species of birds, fish, and other local wildlife. From March to October, millions of bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset, offering a unique spectacle.
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