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With its scenic views of the Texas Hill Country and various ecological environments, Hays County has a multitude of areas available for hiking, biking, nature exploration and more. Here are some to check out around San Marcos, Buda and Kyle. This list is not comprehensive.
Plum Creek Trail
This trail connects Steeplechase Park, Lake Kyle, Bunton Creek Park and Waterleaf Park. Leashed pets are allowed.
Length: 3.5 miles
Trail type: Hiking, biking
Cullen Country Park Trail
This park features a greenbelt/trail that backs up to Garlic Creek Park. The natural, tree-shaded trail offers picnic tables and benches along the way.
Length: 8 miles
Trail type: Hiking
Historic Stagecoach Park
Buda’s 51-acre park includes a loop offering views of large trees and occasional wildlife.
Length: About 1 mile
Trail type: Hiking, biking
45 SW Trail
Located 10 minutes north of downtown Buda in Manchaca, this paved trail runs along the 45 tollway from FM 1626 to Escarpment Boulevard in South Austin. South access to the trail is available from the Bliss Spillar Trailhead.
Length: 4.5 miles
Trail type: Hiking, biking
Five Mile Dam
The trail around the Five Mile Dam Soccer Complex features a natural setting with access to the Blanco River.
Length: 1 mile
Trail type: Hiking, biking
Purgatory Creek Natural Area
A popular destination for hikers, bikers, birders and nature explorers, Purgatory Creek Natural Area contains multiple trails with varying levels of difficulty. Its trails like Dante, Beatrice and Malacoda offer a variety of vegetation to explore.
Length: Varies by trail
Trail type: Hiking, biking
Spring Lake Natural Area
San Marcos’ second-largest natural area offers multiple natural-ground trails for hiking, biking, birding, photography and more. An “ecological jewel,” the Spring Lake area offers trails like Tonkawa, Blue Stem and Buckeye varying in length and difficulty. Certain trails are closed March through May annually.
Length: Varies by trail
Trail type: Hiking, biking
Ringtail Ridge Natural Area
Located in northeastern San Marcos, this 45-acre area includes two trails. According to the San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance, Ringtail Ridge’s stock ponds offer unique bird and bug walks.
Length: About 3 miles
Trail type: Hiking, biking
