Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail — Attraction in Austin

If you’re visiting Austin or even just looking for a perfect way to spend a few hours outdoors, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake is a must. It’s one of those places that really captures the spirit of Austin — relaxed, scenic, a little artistic, and always buzzing with life.

One of the highlights of the trail is the Boardwalk, a beautifully designed stretch that actually takes you over the lake. Walking or biking across it gives you stunning, uninterrupted views of the downtown skyline, with the buildings reflecting on the water. It’s especially magical early in the morning when the sun’s just coming up, or at sunset when the city lights start to glow.

Speaking of iconic Austin sights, don’t miss the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue along the trail. It’s a tribute to one of Austin’s legendary musicians, and it’s become a kind of pilgrimage spot for music fans. The statue sits right by the water, and it’s a perfect photo op with the skyline in the background.

The skyline itself is a showstopper — Austin’s growing fast, and the mix of modern glass towers and historic buildings gives the city a dynamic look. Whether you’re on the Boardwalk or any part of the trail that edges the lake, the view never really gets old.

The weather plays a big role too. Most of the year, you can expect sunny skies and warm (sometimes very warm) temperatures, making it an ideal place to be outdoors. Spring and fall are especially beautiful — with clear blue skies, light breezes, and just the right amount of warmth to enjoy a long walk or a bike ride without feeling overheated.

Overall, the Ann and Roy Butler Trail feels like the heartbeat of Austin. It’s not just a trail — it’s a little slice...

I want to hide this from everyone...but alas, not to be. Incredible hike/walk/jog/bike trail. It is 10 miles around but it seems soooooo much longer than 10 miles. Such a variety of ups and downs and turns on the trail. You can start anywhere. Nice breeze off the lake. There seems to be people out anytime of the day...morning/noon/evening. Pretty much everyone is nice and minds their own business but you may or may witness a few trail hogs or rude people. No electric scooters allowed even though there always seems to be someone on one. Call 311 to report .... it's all for safety. Gravel trail pretty much except for the boardwalk area and some street or overpass catwalk areas. Plenty of restrooms around the trail and water fountains including for pets. Some areas have homeless people but so far I haven't been bothered and haven't seen anyone else bothered. Plenty of places to rent a standup board or kayak. Several areas to take a break and jump in the lake.. All around...just an amazing place to workout...walk...relax...swim...bike. There are Austin PD officers who patrol on bikes which is nice to see. Although there are tons of people on the trail, it never really feels crowded. Mix of die hard fitness to families to just regular folks taking a stroll. I just absolutely ❤❤❤ this trail and don't mind driving to and from...

This is a very long and busy trail here there is a bit of everything joggers,runners,walkers, straight up health and fitness,there is plenty of parking space on either end of the trail,it is wheelchair accessible and occasionally you will see a scooter or motorized skateboard or cyclist zoom on by, there are plenty of benches along the way, public restrooms and water fountains that work with separate sprout to cool your whole body down, depending on which way you are going lady Bird lake is either to the left or right of you, swimming is prohibited, but fishing is allowed.along this trail is emence beauty from the coverage of forestry, to the fauna, various species of birds and aquatic life, today there was a marathon, there's plenty of history here dedication plaques on each bench or places to walk down and set your feet in the water,it is pet friendly so y'all know what to do.thank you.along this trail is also a bronze statue dedicated to great musician and Austinite Mr.Stevie ray Vaughn, there's much to experience here, great for a walk with friends,lovers,partners or companion, it's a romantic getaway. It's always open with law enforcement usually patrolling the area.along the trails there are pedestrian bridges to get from one side of the city to the other more on that on a...