The 25 Most Beautiful Trails to Hike or Bike Within Driving Distance of San Antonio

By San Antonio Current Staff

Whether you're an amateur hiker, experienced biker or just like a leisurely stroll on a scenic trail, we've picked out some of the most beautiful nature trails you can enjoy and get there on a tank of gas.

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Lost Maples State Natural Area
37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, (830) 966-3413, tpwd.texas.gov
The two-hour drive to Lost Maples is totally worth it. The park features more than 10 miles of trails, including one loop that gives you an insane view from the top of a 2,200-foot cliff.
Photo via Instagram / texas_lovers_zz

Comanche Lookout Park
15551 Nacogdoches Rd, (210) 207-7275, sanantonio.gov
Here you’ll enjoy one of the highest elevation points in the city. Though you can’t go up to the lookout (darn!), this park is still a lot of fun. Brush up on your history (dating back to when Native Americans ruled the land) before visiting so you enjoy it fully.
Photo via Instagram / boriphotography80

Guadalupe River State Park
3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, (830) 438-2656, tpwd.texas.gov
You’ll even be able to ride your horse on certain sections of the 13 miles of trails. If you want a rougher terrain, try the lesser-traveled Bauer Unit.
Photo via Instagram / guadaluperiverstatepark

Enchanted Rock
16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, (830) 685-3636, tpwd.texas.gov
Nearly 11 miles of trails lets you experience enviable views that are well-worth the hike. You’ll be able to experience them all (we know you’ll visit plenty of times),but start with the Summit Trail for 360 degree views of the park – from 1823 ft. in the air!
Photo via Instagram / yogagems

Old Tunnel State Park
10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, (866) 978-2287, tpwd.texas.gov
This trail is just half a mile but can be steep at some points, perfect for strengthening those calves. While you can enjoy the sights of the Mexican free-tailed bats during the season, the regular trail alone makes for a nice getaway.
Photo via Instagram / texasparkswildlifefoundation

Bastrop State Park
100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, (512) 321-2101, tpwd.texas.gov
Take a few hours to appreciate the growing wilderness at this massive state park. If you’re in it for the long haul, take the 8.6-mile Lost Pines Loop. You’ll be able to see much of the park, including two overlook points for insane views.
Photo via Instagram / the_real_flex_wheelingham

Hill Country State Natural Area
10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, (830) 796-4413, tpwd.texas.gov
Plan accordingly so you can take advantage of 40+ miles of multiuse trails. You can hike, bike and even ride a horse along these designated paths.
Photo via Instagram / banderahistorical

Cibolo Nature Center
140 City Park Rd, Boerne, (830) 249-4616, cibolo.org
There’s plenty to do at Cibolo Nature Center, and the trails are short enough that you’ll be able to explore the entire center in a day. Throughout the property you’ll be able to hike marshes and open meadows alike. Plus, you can learn more about the dinosaur tracks that were discovered in 1997.
Photo via Instagram / kate.aline

Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, (512) 974-6700, austinparks.org
When in Austin, check out the urban oasis that is Barton Creek. Though you can have outdoor adventure after another here, stick to a simple hike or bike on the 7.2 trail. If you want to get a bit more of a thrill, try your hand at rock climbing.
Photo via Instagram / brodyandmarleysdad

Pedernales Falls State Park
2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, (830) 868-7304, tpwd.texas.gov
What better place is there to hike (or bike) and get wicked views of the scenic Hill Country. The Twin Falls Nature Trail is short (just half a mile), but lets you enjoy the overlook of the park. If you want something a little more intensive, opt for the 5.5-mile loop overlook.
Photo via Instagram / megangutt