Granite Peaks, Waterfalls & Hill Country Trails

Hike to the summit of a massive pink granite dome for panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country and a sunset you'll never forget.

Tackle the Echo Canyon Loop for scrambling through boulders and hidden caves, or hike out to Little Rock — a quieter dome with fewer crowds and sweeping Hill Country views.

Cool off in crystal-clear swimming holes beneath cascading waterfalls while hiking scenic trails through pristine Texas wilderness.

Experience innovative Asian-inspired cuisine elevated by wood-fired cooking techniques and creative cocktails at this trendy Austin hotspot that reimagines traditional smokehouse dining.

Bike or hike scenic trails through native Texas landscape, spotting wildlife along the Medina River. Explore the park's natural prairies and woodlands while enjoying picnic areas and environmental learning exhibits.

Hike or scramble along 7.9 miles of limestone canyon trail carved by Barton Creek through the western edge of Austin. The Barton Springs entrance puts you immediately onto the creek trail where you can wade the shallow crossings, swim in clear natural pools, and climb exposed limestone ledges overhanging the water. The canyon walls shade the trail until late morning — ideal on a warm Texas day. The trail connects to Sculpture Falls, a tiered cascade popular with locals.

Austin’s beloved taco chain started from a trailer on South Lamar — order the Democrat (portobello, goat cheese, avocado) or the Trailer Park (fried chicken, green chiles, pico) before the drive back to San Antonio. Quick, satisfying, and quintessentially Austin.

Descend into one of Texas’s largest show caves, discovered in 1960 beneath a 60-foot natural limestone bridge. The Discovery Tour winds 180 feet underground through cathedral chambers hung with stalactites, soda straw formations, and calcite curtains that took 10,000 years to form. The cave stays a constant 70°F — a welcome relief from the Texas heat and a good energizer for the short remaining drive back to San Antonio.