Riverplace Nature Trail: A Guide To Austin’s Best Hiking Trail

Riverplace Nature Trail: A Guide To Austin’s Best Hiking Trail

Length: 6 Miles Roundtrip
Skill Level: Intermediate
Address: 8820 Big View Dr. Austin, TX 78730
Cost:Free On Weekdays; $10/Person On Weekends

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Allow me to introduce you to a place that is like a second home to me – A trail I’ve hiked more times than I can count and yet, everytime I return, feels like a new adventure. Not only is Riverplace Nature Trail the most challenging hiking trail in Austin, with its relentless stone steps and steep inclines, but it’s also the most beautiful.

Riverplace Nature Trail is roughly 6 miles roundtrip and includes just enough level surface to bring your heart rate down between stairs, which will test your willpower each and every step of the way. But don’t worry! You will be rewarded with gorgeous views inside the trail, made up of quirky obstacles like stepping stones over small creeks and tiny bridges serving no purpose at all, along with the gorgeous hill country views you are showered with once you arrive closer to the top.

Speaking of which, starting the trail from the bottom is one of the smartest things you can do when hiking Riverplace, not only because you will finish the most difficult portion throughout the first half of the hike, but also because this is where the restrooms and water fountains are located.

As an avid hiker of Riverplace Nature Trail for over 10 years, I have expert tips for you listed below!

Tips For Hiking Riverplace Nature Trail

1. Start From The Bottom – “Panther Hollow Trail”
As I stated above, you will want to begin from the lowest portion of the trail. Here is the address you will need to insert into your GPS:

8820 Big View Dr.
Austin, TX 78730

At this trailhead, there is a community center with public bathrooms, water fountains, picnics tables, a playground, and a TON of parking.

2. Hike On A Weekday, If Possible.
Not only is this hike fairly busy on weekends, but it also costs $10/person to hike. There will be someone set up accepting payments by cash or card Saturdays and Sundays at the top and bottom of the trail. *Note: If you are hiking on a weekend, Little Fern Trail does not always have a person at the entrance, so you could possible get in free here.

Little Fern Trail Address:
3916 River Place Blvd.
Austin, TX 78730

3. Need To Cut The Length In Half?
If you’re wanting to see the entire hike, but aren’t sure you will make it through 6 miles – (A) You can park a car on each side of the trail and drive back to the start once you’ve made it up. (B) You can take the road back to the beginning once you’ve made it – Keep in mind, the road will still be about a 2 mile walk, but it will shorten the length and remove the majority of the incline/decline.

4. Wear Hiking Boots.
Hiking in Austin doesn’t often require hiking boots, but this is one trail where you might want to upgrade your footwear (although you can get by without doing so). Riverplace includes a few water crossings and a ton of mixed terrain, so increased ankle support and waterproof shoes will help you get the trail done with ease.

5. Bring Lots Of Water & Snacks
Whether because I’m stopping to soak in each view or taking a break everytime I make it up a set of stairs, Riverplace always seems to take longer than I expect it to – Usually 3 hours, minimum. On a hot summer day, this adventure can be quite miserable without an adequate amount of water, and by that I mean like a backpack full of it. A snack or two will also help you keep your energy up through the journey!

6. Where Is The “Peak?”
The “peak” is not at the end of the trail – If you’re looking for a place to sit down for a midway break and view, I encourage you to do so on the way back down the trail. This will give you the chance to see all the benches and waterfalls along the way, laying out your options for a break spot on the way back.

I believe with these tips, you will have an amazing experience at this little nature sanctuary. Get ready to push yourself and embrace the wild beauty that’s awaiting you at Riverplace!

Let me know when you make it. 🙂

Looking for more Austin, Texas tips from a local?! Click Here.