Dog-friendly trails and walks in Austin
Austin has lakeside paths, neighborhood greenbelts and creekside hikes. Most trails require dogs to be leashed; Turkey Creek at Emma Long and Mary Moore Searight's designated off-leash trail are exceptions. Confirm trail conditions and boundaries before setting out.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
A popular paved route around Lady Bird Lake, with convenient access from downtown. Keep dogs leashed and be mindful of cyclists, runners and crowded boardwalk sections. For off-leash play nearby, use the signed dog area and the Auditorium Shores outing guide rather than treating the trail as off-leash.
Shoal Creek Greenbelt Trail and Sidewalk
A central urban trail listed in the city directory at about 6.8 miles. Most of the route is for leashed walking; the city designates a specific nearby greenbelt area for off-leash use, so follow the map rather than assuming the whole route is off-leash.
Turkey Creek Trail — Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Northwest Austin. The city's trail directory lists this 1.92-mile shared-use hiking/off-leash trail. It is a designated exception to the usual leash rule; stay alert around other hikers and check the park's current entry and parking requirements.
East Boggy Creek Greenbelt Trail
5200 Bolm Road · The city lists this shared-use hiking and biking trail at 1.6 miles. Keep dogs leashed and be considerate of other trail users.
Heat, water and trail conditions
- Austin heat can be intense; plan cooler-hour walks, carry fresh water and avoid hot exposed pavement.
- Check official algae monitoring before visiting Lady Bird Lake or Barton Creek. Do not allow dogs to drink natural water or approach visible algae mats.
- Creek crossings and low-lying trails may become unsafe after heavy rain. Check local alerts and turn back if water is rising.
- Carry waste bags and keep your dog leashed unless you are inside a clearly designated off-leash area.
Austin Parks official trail directory ↗ · City dog-area rules and map ↗