The San Antonio area has a variety of hiking opportunities and combines urban charm with natural beauty. So if you’re looking for the best hikes near San Antonio, we’ve put together a list of hiking paths that cross through landscapes, waterfalls, and picturesque vistas.
These trails range from the rocky terrain and steep slopes of national parks to hidden gem sanctuaries. The tranquility of these routes is one of the best ways to unwind, as every step reveals a different combination of plants and animals, providing a rich experience.
This carefully picked list provides the best hiking trails with great views in and around the city no matter if it’s the best time of year – the summer months – or not.
You will notice next to each destination a time estimation from San Antonio, but please bear in mind that depending where you are based, it can take up to an hour to cross the city, so it’s best to consult your GPS for the most accurate estimate.
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Best Hiking Spots Less Than 30 Minutes from San Antonio
Yanaguana Garden (5mins)
Explore the scenic Yanaguana Garden, a little over a half-mile loop near San Antonio. The trail typically takes around 12 minutes to complete, making it a great place if you’re looking for a quick, but pleasant outdoor escape.
Aside from scenic walks, there’s a historic mission San Juan with captivating exhibits, including a demonstration garden that illustrates the use of acequia for crop irrigation. The initial northern loop, approximately 0.1 miles, is remarkably accessible. In contrast, the southern loop extends beyond 0.1 miles, and motorized equipment may be advisable for traversing it.
Immerse yourself in the natural and historical wonders of Yanaguana Garden, where accessibility meets the allure of outdoor exploration.
Salado Creek Greenway Trail (10mins)
The Salado Creek Greenway Trail is a great choice for a more experienced hiker, offering a challenging trail. It provides a serene escape for hikers, mountain bikers, and runners. It is open year-round and showcases nearly 25 miles of paved pathways along San Antonio’s east side, forming part of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trails system.
The trail is divided into two segments. The northernmost segment from Eisenhower Park to John James Park spans 18 miles, leading through landscapes like bluffs, hardwood forests, and the historic Voelcker Farmstead. The southernmost part, from Jack White Park to South Side Lions Park, covers 7.5 miles and guides you through various city parks, each offering unique amenities and natural views.
So whether you want to hike or bike ride these trails are an excellent choice.
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Woodlawn Lake Park (10mins)
This park offers a 1.4-mile loop near San Antonio. It makes for one of the best trails for a scenic and easy hiking experience. It will take 25 minutes to complete the trail, beginning at the new Berta Almaguer Dance Studio and Community Center, with a convenient 700-foot neighborhood trail connection.
This connection links hikers to the Alazán Creek Greenway Trail, a gateway to the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail System, with 82 miles of developed multi-use trails accessible from sunrise to sunset.
For an enhanced experience, consider biking through the area.
San Antonio Mission Trail (10mins)
The scenic Hike & Bike Trail tracing the San Antonio River serves as a vital link, seamlessly connecting the city’s five historic missions. It is one of the best hikes near San Antonio. Spanning roughly 2.5 miles between each site, this San Antonio river walk offers a secure and enjoyable avenue to explore these cultural treasures.
Along this route, you can find essential amenities like water sources, restrooms, various trail access points, scenic viewpoints, and more. Specifically designated paved pathways along the riverbanks are strictly reserved for pedestrians, ensuring a safe and serene journey between the missions.
Whether walking or cycling, the Hike & Bike Trail presents an easily navigable path suitable for visitors of all ages, making it a family-friendly adventure. Notably, an entrance pass is not needed for access to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This allows for free exploration and appreciation of these significant historical sites.
Medina River Natural Area (20mins)
The Medina River Natural Area is 23 minutes south of San Antonio, and you can access it via I-35 S and Palo Alto Rd. It expands across 511 acres and includes 7 miles of trails.
If you are seeking an immersive experience, a group camping area with parking, camping facilities, restrooms, and a small covered pavilion are all available by reservation, making it one of the best places for a fun weekend away.
With a different 10 miles of trails accommodating hiking, biking, fishing, and on-leash dog walking, the park offers you and your family a diverse range of outdoor activities.
Friedrich Wilderness Park (20mins)
Just 20 miles from Central San Antonio, this park has approximately 10 miles of maintained trails which are a great option for all levels of hikers. The trail system features paved and unpaved paths, well-marked with difficulty levels ranging from one to four, ensuring diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts.
One standout trail is the Forest Range Loop, a half-mile paved route with trees, offering shade on warmer days. You will only find essential amenities such as covered picnic areas, drinking fountains, and restrooms near the entrance. Notably, no pets are allowed in the park to safeguard its pristine environment.
Leon Creek Greenway (20mins)
This is a 4-mile paved, family-friendly trail near San Antonio and located within the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trails system. The trail begins at Eisenhower Park and extends southward for 20 miles along the serene Leon Creek.
Walking through the path, you will encounter ponds, such as the bird and wildlife-rich Earl Scott Pond near the northern terminus. You will also discover several parks along the trail, such as the O.P. Schnabel Park, with its cliffs and diverse amenities. This trail is guaranteed to be fun for the entire family.
Stone Oak Park (20mins)
Discover the natural beauty of Stone Oak Park with its 1.2 miles loop trail just outside San Antonio. Perfect for birding, hiking, and running enthusiasts, this easy route is one of the best hikes near San Antonio that takes around 23 minutes to complete.
Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers will find accessible parking and trails at the trailhead, with a designated space and van-accessible spots. Also, get a chance to explore Stone Oak Park’s trails, which ensures an adventurous experience for hikers and families alike.
Phil Hardberger Park – East Entrance (20mins)
You are invited to explore its various trails, fitting for both leisurely family strolls and more challenging hikes. Boasting 330 acres of sustainable urban parkland, Phil Hardberger Park is suitable for nature lovers. It offers amenities such as a nature center, outdoor classrooms, dog parks, play areas, and an extensive network of trails spanning 7.5 miles.
The Land Bridge, a significant addition to the park that will eventually connect the two halves, is currently dividing it by Wurzbach Parkway. You can now access the garden through two main entry points: PHP East on 13203 Blanco Rd and PHP West on 8400 NW Military Hwy.
Trailheads at 1021 Voelcker Lane also provide access to the Salado Creek Greenway trails and the Voelcker Historic Homestead.
Tower Loop Trail (25mins)
This hiking trail stands out as a gem among San Antonio’s outdoor havens, spanning 4.5 miles. Here, you can embark on a customizable hiking experience through rolling hills and woodlands.
Begin your journey at the Semmes Branch Library parking lot, where the 0.1-mile Library Main Trail introduces you to a paved path with pieces of exercise equipment. As you traverse the unpaved Library Loop Trail, spanning 0.6 miles, you’ll venture into a forest with native flora and plenty of wildlife that you could be lucky enough to see.
If you seek a more extensive exploration, the Library Loop seamlessly transitions into the 0.8-mile Comanche Loop. This leads you deeper into the woods and eventually connects to the 0.5-mile Tower Trail.
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Best Hiking Spots Under an Hour Away from San Antonio
Eisenhower Park (30mins)
Located beyond Loop 1604, a 30-minute drive north of downtown San Antonio, Eisenhower Park emerges as a premier hiking destination. With over six miles of paved and natural paths, the park caters to various levels of hikers, providing clear signage at each trailhead to guide you along the way.
You can tackle the Hillview Natural Trail, a 2.6-mile loop that winds through the entire park, featuring a challenging uphill hike for a nice steep climb. For a more relaxed stroll, the less than a mile Cedar Flats Trail bisects the park, leading to a tower perched at 1,280 feet.
Eisenhower park also offers family-friendly features, including a playground, a rock climbing wall, restrooms, and water fountains.
Cibolo Canyons Trail (30mins)
Situated approximately 11 miles from the San Antonio International Airport and 20 miles from downtown San Antonio. This trail provides a peaceful exploration, especially during the months of March through October since it is not too cool and not too hot.
This challenging 4 mile loop trail is suitable for hikers, runners, and walkers, with an average completion time of 1 hour and 20 minutes. Whether you are seeking a stroll or a nature experience, the Cibolo Canyons Hiking Trail promises a blend of natural beauty.
Cascade Caverns (35mins)
Embark on an outdoor adventure at Cascade Caverns, a 3-mile loop trail near Boerne, Texas, just a short drive from San Antonio. This easy hiking route, taking around 5 minutes to complete, offers a serene escape into nature, where you will encounter fellow hikers.
Cascade Caverns also offers RV-ing and tent camping facilities for you and your family. You can also indulge in hiking, whitewater paddling, and golf during your stay.
Natural Bridge Caverns (35mins)
Conquer concrete paths that include both steps and challenging inclines, and be sure to utilize handrails on steeper sections. The walking tours cover distances ranging from half a mile to three-quarters of a mile, descending 180 feet below the surface.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the cave offers an adventure tour with crawling and headlamp exploration (reservations required). After your journey, head to Big Daddy’s Sweets, Treats, and Brew or the Cavern Café, where their gluten-free pizza is a must-try!
Guadalupe River State Park (45mins)
Located 45 minutes from north downtown San Antonio and covering 1800 acres, this park has more than 7 miles of hiking and biking, as well as fishing, swimming, and kayaking along the iconic Guadalupe River.
If you are seeking camping adventures, the park offers nearly 100 sites, from walk-in tent camping to RV sites with water and 30-amp electricity. You can expect custom hikes, programs, and resource-based activities tailored for schools, church groups, scout troops, and various organizations. You can hike alongside the Guadalupe River with your dog.
Purgatory Creek Natural Area (50mins)
Lower Purgatory stands as the prime trailhead renowned among enthusiasts, often bustling with visitors, especially on weekends and during the vibrant spring season. This is one of the best hikes near San Antonio and caters to dedicated mountain bikers and trail runners. Perfect for those who seek challenging terrain, navigating through the natural surface and single-track trail.
For a captivating adventure within the scenic expanse of Purgatory Creek Natural Area, opt for the Upper Purgatory Trailhead. Embarking on this 2.8-mile round-trip hike will lead you to the mesmerizing Grotto. Additionally, the natural area offers both South and North entrances, providing varied access points for exploration.
Best of all, access to this captivating natural retreat comes at no cost, allowing all to immerse themselves in the beauty and challenges offered by Lower Purgatory and the Purgatory Creek Natural Area.
Blanco State Park (55mins)
Nestled along a one-mile stretch of the spring-fed Blanco River, this charming park beckons visitors. It is an ideal spot for delightful picnics, refreshing afternoon swims, serene fishing trips, or immersive weekend campouts. The idyllic setting offers a medley of activities, both on the water and on land. Feel the river’s embrace as you swim, fish, paddle, or leisurely boat.
On Terra Firma, the park invites picnicking, hiking, camping, wildlife spotting, and geocaching adventures. For group gatherings, the park boasts a CCC-built picnic area and pavilion, available for reservation to enhance your next outdoor rendezvous.
Camping enthusiasts can secure their spot by making convenient online reservations. Entry into this riverside haven incurs a daily fee of $5 for adults, while children aged 12 and under can explore free of charge.
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Best Hiking Spots Under 2 Hours from San Antonio
Kerrville River Trail (1hr)
Stretching for 6 miles along the picturesque Guadalupe River, the Kerrville River Trail offers a scenic route. What makes this trail truly remarkable is the opportunity it presents to reach lesser-visited swimming spots. While reveling in miles of stunning riverside views, visitors can enjoy the convenience of being close to the city.
Additionally, camping is available within the park grounds. For entry into Kerrville-Schreiner Park, a fee is required. The fees are structured per vehicle (capped at $15) or per individual entering on foot or bicycle. Adults are charged $7 for entry, while children and seniors can enjoy access for $3.
Spring Lake Natural Area (1hr)
Nestled above Spring Lake, the source of the San Marcos River, lies the hidden gem of Spring Lake Natural Area, spanning 251 acres. A haven for nature enthusiasts, this lesser-known park boasts extensive natural surface trails for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and photography.
For an unparalleled encounter with the wonders beneath the surface, The Meadows Center offers an array of experiences. Glide over the crystal-clear waters in glass bottom boats. You can also explore with kayaks, delve into snorkeling, or embark on an intriguing scuba-diving tour.
While a small parking fee is applicable at The Meadows Center, access to the trails within Spring Lake Natural Area remains free and accessible to all.
Old Tunnel State Park (1hr)
Explore the charm of Old Tunnel State Park, boasting the title of the smallest state park in Texas while hosting millions of bats from May through October. Witness the captivating nightly emergence of these bats as they roost within the tunnel. This spectacle is freely visible from the upper viewing area.
For a closer encounter, the lower viewing area is accessible Thursday to Sunday evenings, requiring a small fee of $2 per person, irrespective of age.
If time permits, consider indulging in a delightful dining experience at Alamo Springs Café, adding a touch of culinary delight to your visit. Beyond the bat spectacle, the park offers a range of activities such as picnicking, bird-watching, hiking, stargazing, and wildlife spotting.
The nature trail invites exploration daily from sunrise until 5 pm. What’s even better—there’s no entrance fee, making it one of the best hikes near San Antonio!
Mount Baldy + Jacob’s Well Natural Area (1hr 10mins)
Jacob’s Well is a natural wonder boasting depths of around 140 feet and extending approximately 4500 feet. It presents a captivating dive opportunity for those equipped with scuba gear. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the inherent dangers associated with diving at Jacob’s Well.
To access Jacob’s Well for diving, reservations must be made online due to its popularity and safety regulations. While a popular spot for swimming and diving, it’s important to note that the area is currently experiencing historically low water levels, rendering it unsafe for swimming.
Visitors are advised to stay updated on the conditions for the 2024 swim season through the park’s updates. Despite the temporary restriction on swimming, the park remains open for hiking and viewing the spring during regular hours, offering an opportunity to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. Entrance fees for park entry are $9 for adults and $5 for children.
Hill Country State Natural Area (1hr 10mins)
Discover the allure of Hill Country State Natural Area, an expansive wilderness spanning over 5,000 acres. It offers an array of natural wonders and outdoor activities for visitors to explore.
Primitive camping, backpacking, fishing, nature observation, and a network of multiuse trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Trails vary in difficulty, from leisurely one-mile strolls to more challenging, extensive hikes.
Entry into this natural haven costs a daily fee of $6 for adults, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free admission. To secure a camping spot, online reservations can be made, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay amidst the picturesque beauty.
Pedernales Falls State Park (1hr 20mins)
Conveniently situated just 37 miles west of Austin in Johnson City. Pedernales Falls State Park ensures an enjoyable experience for you and your family. Prepare to indulge in more than 20 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels.
The highlight is the Twin Falls Nature Trail, a scenic 0.5-mile walk that leads to a breathtaking waterfall. What sets this trail apart is the minimal effort required to reach the overlook, making it an ideal choice for hikers seeking a rewarding experience.
For a more demanding adventure, you can tackle the six-mile Wolf Mountain Trail around the Tobacco and Wolf Mountains, unveiling small canyons shaped by the Mescal and Tobacco Creeks.
Remember that reservations are essential for park entry, and cell service is unavailable within the park. Informing someone of your plans before exploring this area is wise.
Blue Hole Hike with a Secret Staircase (1hr 20mins)
Nestled within the Frio River Private Access are a few designated swimming spots. Notably, the captivating Blue Hole showcases incredibly azure waters and some ideal jumping spots. For a serene escape along the Frio River, this private access area stands as an essential destination.
Blue Hole boasts pristine waters that offer a clear view of its bustling aquatic life. The area’s charm extends to a tranquil river perfect for wading, alongside a picturesque hiking trail that unveils stunning vistas of the Texas Hill Country and features a secret staircase.
To ensure a serene experience, only 35 people are permitted daily, granting ample room for exploration. Alongside these attractions, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards. You need to book ahead, and reservations can be made online.
Garner State Park (1hr 30mins)
With 2.9 miles of the serene Frio River winding through, a variety of water activities await. You can swim, tube, kayak, or paddleboat through the inviting waters since these amenities are available to rent. The park’s extensive network of trails spanning 16 miles beckons hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore the scenic beauty.
The park ensures a diverse range of experiences for all, from camping in cozy cabins, screened shelters, or campsites. Engaging in picnics, fishing, geocaching, and even enjoying a round of miniature golf are among the activities offered.
You can purchase meals and snacks during busy seasons, and additionally, you have the option to rent barbecue pits, tables, fans, and heaters during your stay. The park’s entry fee structure is $8 for visitors 13 years and older while children 12 and under enjoy free entry. Reservations can be made online.
Reimers Ranch Park (1hr 30mins)
Reimers Ranch Park offers a serene escape, featuring a meandering creek. This provides ample space to savor the tranquility without concern for overcrowding. The expansive grounds boast various rock climbing spots and numerous hiking trails. Unlike many popular swimming spots in the Texas Hill Country, Reimers Ranch often remains open for visitors seeking a refreshing dip.
It’s essential to note that the park operates on a cash-only basis, so ensure you bring along the necessary funds, as credit or debit cards aren’t accepted. The day-use fee stands at $5 per person, with a reduced rate of $3 for seniors aged 62 and older. Children aged 12 and under can revel in the park’s offerings at no charge. This makes it an inviting destination for families and individuals seeking natural retreats amidst the picturesque landscape.
Grelle Recreation Area (1hr 35mins)
The Grelle Recreation Area transforms into a mesmerizing canvas during wildflower season. It is adorned with breathtaking carpets of bluebonnets that seem to stretch endlessly. Yet, even beyond this spectacle, the area offers an enchanting experience across its 276 acres.
Amidst the rugged beauty, visitors can enjoy hiking adventures, immersing themselves in steep hills shadowed by sprawling canopies of live oak trees. The small, picturesque waterfalls that dot the landscape further add to the park’s charm.
Following exploration, the nearby Lake Travis beckons, providing a refreshing respite to cool off and unwind. For those seeking an overnight stay, camping beneath the vast Texas sky is an option. It offers a chance to embrace the tranquility of the outdoors.
Reservations for camping can be made online, ensuring a comfortable and memorable overnight experience amidst the starry expanse.
Lost Maples State Natural Area (1hr 40mins)
This is located just two hours northwest of San Antonio. This hiking destination offers a blend of wildflowers, steep canyon walls, and the picturesque Sabinal River. With over 10 miles of trails, you and your family can find the perfect route to explore.
On a recommended day hike, you can embark on a counter-clockwise loop. You can start with the Maple Trail, which offers a scenic view during the fall of the colorful foliage. Meanwhile, the East Trail leads to notable attractions like Monkey Rock. It’s a distinctive geological formation that captivates visitors with its unique shape and offers a scenic vantage point amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Texas Hill Country.
Brushy Creek Lake Park (1hr 40mins)
Brushy Creek Lake Park spans 90 acres. It provides a diverse array of recreational opportunities that cater to both active pursuits and nature-based activities. The park boasts hiking and biking trails, inviting visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area through various nature trails.
A serene lake within the park offers fishing and swimming opportunities, providing a refreshing escape for water enthusiasts. Families can also enjoy the water playscape and take advantage of the canoe launch for a leisurely paddle.
For those planning group gatherings or events, pavilions within the park can be conveniently reserved online.
Hidden Spot Along the Pedernales River (in Stonewall) (1hr 45mins)
This section of the Pedernales River near Stonewall offers a serene and picturesque spot to unwind and savor nature’s beauty. It’s graced with a small dam that spills over, creating gentle cascades and trickling streams that meander through lush grassy areas. The guided hike through the caverns lasts around an hour and a half. It weaves tales of its fascinating history and showcases its stunning natural formations.
While the exact spot might be a tad challenging to locate, the staff at Stonewall Motor Lodge are incredibly helpful. They will assist you in finding this serene section along the river. With their local knowledge and guidance, you will be led to the precise spot for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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Inner Space Caverns (1hr 45mins)
Inner Space Caverns, nestled in Georgetown, stand as a remarkable natural marvel awaiting exploration. Descending underground, you are treated to a captivating journey through intricate cave formations while gaining insights into the cavern’s unique features.
The tour seamlessly blends education and entertainment, making learning about the cavern’s wonders a delightfully engaging experience. Reservations for this enthralling underground adventure can be conveniently made online, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of this hidden gem.
San Gabriel Park (1hr 50mins)
San Gabriel Park, a sprawling 180-acre oasis, is adorned with majestic 200-year-old oak trees. It is ideal for family picnics beneath their welcoming shade. The park’s extensive amenities include pavilions, trails, exercise facilities, a playscape, disc golf, baseball and softball fields, basketball and sand volleyball courts, soccer fields, fishing spots, restrooms, and even community and recreation centers.
The park’s versatility ensures an array of activities for all ages and interests. A scenic hike and bike trail wind through the park, comprising a 1.6-mile loop within the grounds.
Longhorn Caverns State Park (1hr 45mins)
Longhorn Caverns isn’t just any cavern—it’s a treasure trove of history and uniqueness. Imagine prohibition parties held within these ancient walls and Confederate soldiers mining bat guano for gunpowder.
The guided hike through the caverns lasts around an hour and a half. It weaves tales of its fascinating history and showcases its stunning natural formations. To secure your spot, reservations for the tour can be conveniently made online.
Inks Lake State Park (1hr 50mins)
Even if camping isn’t on your agenda, a visit to Inks Lake is a treat in itself. The Devil’s Waterhole invites swimmers to enjoy its refreshing waters, while the adventurous can take the plunge into the depths below. Nature’s wonders extend beyond the caverns with beautiful pink granite rocks awaiting hikers. The park’s calendar is brimming with events like Cowboy coffee mornings, guided hikes, star parties, and more, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. To enter this captivating realm, a day-use fee of $7 is applicable for adults, while children aged 12 and under can explore free of charge. Camping enthusiasts can secure their spot by making reservations online, ensuring an unforgettable stay within this remarkable natural haven.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (1hr 50mins)
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary where nature invites you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the natural world. Hiking through its trails offers an opportunity to seek out traces of wildlife and appreciate the fragrance of blossoming flowers lining the paths.
The observation decks at the refuge offer a serene setting for reflection. It’s ideal for reading or journaling while taking in the tranquil atmosphere of nature.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge extends an open invitation for visitors to engage with nature in various ways. They offer a multitude of avenues to forge connections with the natural world.
Best of all, there’s no admission fee, ensuring that this haven of natural splendor remains accessible to all who seek its tranquility.
South Llano State Park (1hr 50mins)
At South Llano River State Park, the Llano River beckons with an invigorating tubing experience amidst its pristine waters. The park facilitates tubing adventures by providing tube rentals and designated launch points. Alternatively, you can bring your own tubes and access the river from various entry points along the park’s expansive two-mile river frontage.
Additionally, scattered along the riverbanks, you’ll discover serene “pools” where relaxation takes center stage. It offers an idyllic setting to sit back, unwind, and savor the waterscape.
While the river steals the spotlight, South Llano State Park doesn’t fall short on land-based adventures. The park boasts a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails. There are nine in total—ranging from half-mile jaunts to four-mile treks.
Each trail promises phenomenal scenic views, ensuring a unique adventure with every exploration. What’s more, you can camp there too, and reservations can be made online. For entry into this natural haven, a daily fee of $5 is applicable for adults, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free access.