The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Texas for an Outdoor Adventure

If you have pups, you’re probably always on the lookout for dog-friendly hikes in Texas. I mean, getting in some exercise for you and your best pal while spending time in nature? Nothing beats it. These five hikes are my favorites for pooches because they either have drinking water sources along the way, access to swimming holes, or they allow dogs to be off-leash. 

1. Violet Crown Trail: Zilker Trailhead to 360 Trailhead, Austin

This section of the 30-mile Violet Crown Trail leads from the Zilker Park trailhead to Barton Creek Plaza. It’s just over four miles long and beautiful to visit year-round, but springtime is especially lovely because the water level in the creek is at its highest (which means your pooches can enjoy a nice swim to cool off!). This hike is surprisingly peaceful for an urban trail, taking you far away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Lush greenery and tall rocks flank the trail, and the views of the skyline are stunning. Oh, and there are plenty of squirrels to keep your dog’s attention.

2. Turkey Creek Trail, Austin

Not to be confused with the Turkey Creek Trail in the Big Thicket National Preserve (which is one of my favorites), this Turkey Creek Trail is located in Austin’s Emma Long Metropolitan Park. Clocking in at just under three miles, the out-and-back route traverses a dense, verdant landscape. The trees create somewhat of a canopy overhead, offering plenty of shade for summer hiking. It’s a well-marked and maintained trail that branches off onto several other trails if you want to extend your adventure. Dogs can be off their leashes here, and there are several clean water sources for them along the way.

3. Bull Creek North Loop, Austin

At just two miles and 50 feet of elevation, the Bull Creek North Loop is great, even for small dogs. It begins at the parking lot for Bull Creek District Park and travels along the creek to a set of beautiful waterfalls. The forested terrain is enchanting, resembling a scene from a fairytale. You’ll marvel at many unique rock formations and wildlife, such as deer. As for your pups, they’ll thoroughly enjoy swimming in the creek before you head back. 

4. Brushy Creek Regional Trail, Cedar Park

Though easy, the Brushy Creek Regional Trail is long — about 14 miles, to be exact. You probably won’t want to hike the whole thing (especially with a four-legged companion in tow), but it’s the kind of trail where people are always coming and going in either direction anyway. It passes a waterfall, and there are several developed parks along the way for a quick game of fetch or frisbee. Parts of the trail are paved, but the ground can get quite hot in the summer, so be sure to pack shoes for your dog.

5. Mount Lakeway Trail, Austin

I think this photo says it all, don’t you? The 4.3-mile Mount Lakeway Trail leads 900 feet up to the summit of Austin’s Mount Lakeway. The views from the top are stunning, and you and your dog can take a well-deserved break to enjoy them before starting your descent. I will say that smaller dogs may have a more challenging time with this one because of the elevation gain, but it’s perfect for bigger pups.

Have you taken any of these dog-friendly hikes in Texas? Which one is your favorite? Remember to sign up for AllTrails+ to get the most out of your hikes. I couldn’t live without the app! If you’re looking for things to do in Texas with your human children, this family-friendly road trip leads to lots of fun places.