The City of Austin's Wildland Conservation Division (the Wildlands) manages more than 40,000 acres that stretch from Hwy 150 in Hays County to the tip of northwest Travis County. Both Wildlands’ programs, the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and the Water Quality Protection Lands, offer a variety of opportunities to explore the rugged Central Texas landscape.
Public Access Trails
Explore Austin Water’s Wildlands by visiting one of the trails open to the public. Many of our region's most iconic outdoor spaces are part of the Wildlands and offer opportunities for self-guided hikes and recreation. With habitat and groundwater protection as the Wildlands’ primary mission, certain areas are only accessible through guided interpretive hikes and volunteer opportunities.
View the Wildlands Interactive Trail Map below to find trails that offer access for self-guided exploration. Click on different trails to learn more and plan your visit. Trails include:
- Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Bull Creek Greenbelt & District Park
- Bull Creek Preserve - Forest Ridge Trail
- Commons Ford Metro Park
- Emma Long Metro Park – Motorcycle and Turkey Creek Trails
- Maxwell Trail
- Mt. Bonnell
- Stillhouse Hollow Preserve
- St. Edwards Park
- Stenis
Volunteer
Volunteers donate thousands of hours each year helping to lead hikes, collect native seeds and monitor endangered species. Find upcoming volunteer events and sign up to attend at austintexas.gov/wildlandevents.
Guided Hikes
There are opportunities to explore the Wildlands on a variety of free guided interpretive hikes throughout the year. Find upcoming hikes and register to attend at austintexas.gov/wildlandevents.