Best Trails & Greenbelts Near Northwest Hills

By
Barton-Hill

If you’ve been Googling best trails and greenbelts near Northwest Hills, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Northwest Hills in Austin, TX, is a dream for nature lovers who want quick access to scenic walking paths, shaded runs, and peaceful escapes without leaving the neighborhood. Whether you're moving to Northwest Hills or already lucky enough to live here, these greenbelt gems are the unsung heroes of the Northwest Hills lifestyle.

Let’s take a walk (literally) through the best trails and green spaces in and around this tree-covered corner of Austin.

1. Allen Park & Trail – Hidden Gem in the Hills

Right in the heart of Northwest Hills, Allen Park is the definition of “quiet charm.” It’s tucked away off Westover Road and has a short but beautiful trail that winds through tall oaks and limestone outcroppings. It’s not a long hike—but it’s perfect for a meditative morning stroll or a lazy Sunday escape.

Why locals love it:

  1. Less foot traffic than major greenbelts

  2. Shaded and serene

  3. Kid- and dog-friendly

2. Bull Creek Greenbelt – Waterfalls & Rock Hopping

One of the most popular greenbelts near Northwest Hills, Bull Creek feels like Hill Country without the drive. It features multiple access points within a 5–10 minute drive from the neighborhood. You’ll find crystal-clear pools, trickling waterfalls, and rocky outcroppings for climbing or sitting with a book.

Trail highlights:

  1. Natural limestone pools

  2. Picnic areas and small beaches

  3. Ideal for hiking, trail running, and off-leash dogs in certain zones

3. Spicewood Valley Trail – The Shady Escape

Just north of Northwest Hills, this trail is a favorite for those seeking quiet and solitude. The Spicewood Valley Trail runs along a dry creek bed, with towering trees, wildflowers in the spring, and minimal crowds even on weekends.

What to expect:

  1. About 2 miles of easy walking

  2. Excellent birdwatching

  3. Connects to adjacent greenbelts and neighborhood parks

4. Bright Leaf Preserve – Untouched Hill Country

This 200+ acre nature preserve sits right on the edge of Northwest Hills. Open for guided hikes and special events, it’s a protected piece of old Austin where development has never touched the land. While you can't always hike here freely, it's worth keeping an eye on their calendar.

Cool features:

  1. Guided hikes with naturalists

  2. Rare flora and limestone trails

  3. A glimpse of Austin’s natural history preserved

5. Shoal Creek Trail – Northwest Hills to Downtown

If you want to really stretch your legs, the Shoal Creek Trail runs from the heart of Northwest Hills all the way into downtown Austin. This one’s for the long-distance runners, cyclists, and anyone who wants to experience Austin through its most scenic urban trail.

Distance: About 5–10+ miles depending on your route

Bonus: Great connection to shopping and coffee stops along the way

6. Great Hills Park Trail – Hills, Trees, and Views

Located just a few minutes north of Northwest Hills, this park offers a surprisingly rugged trail system. Expect elevation changes, rocky terrain, and plenty of shade. It’s not for flip-flops—but it is a great workout.

Local tip:

Bring water, wear real shoes, and be ready for a solid hike—not just a walk in the park.

7. Mount Bonnell – Views That Never Get Old

Okay, this one’s more of a staircase than a trail, but it’s iconic and less than 10 minutes from Northwest Hills. Climb the steps and you’ll get one of the most postcard-worthy views of the Austin skyline and Lake Austin below.

Why it’s a must-see:

  1. Popular spot for sunsets and proposals

  2. Easy parking, quick hike

  3. Great for guests or out-of-town family

Why Trails Matter in Northwest Hills

Living in Northwest Hills means you don’t have to choose between city access and natural beauty. This isn’t just about a daily walk—it’s about quality of life. These greenbelts and trails are part of what make homes in Northwest Hills so valuable. For buyers looking for a calm neighborhood feel without giving up modern Austin conveniences, it’s a major lifestyle win.

Whether you're eyeing luxury homes in Northwest Hills 👉 check them out here, looking to relocate to Austin, or simply researching the Northwest Hills lifestyle, these trails paint the full picture. You’re not just buying a house—you’re buying into a neighborhood where people still wave hello on their morning walks and where every turn might lead to another hidden creek or canopy of trees.

If you want to see what it’s like to live near these trails—or find a home that backs to one—we should talk. James Lucas is your go-to real estate professional for Northwest Hills and the surrounding area. Get to know him here.

About the Author
James Lucas
James Lucas
I’m James Lucas, a full-time real estate advisor and Northwest Hills resident, focused on helping clients buy and sell homes right here in Northwest Hills, Austin, Texas. This is more than just where I work—it’s where I live, raise my family, and advocate for my neighbors.

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Northwest Hills, you deserve more than a generalist. You need someone who understands how pricing can change from street to street—and how to position your home to stand out in this specific market. As the #1 Real Estate Agent in Northwest Hills, that’s where I come in.

I focus all my experience on a single goal—helping Northwest Hills homeowners navigate this market with clarity and confidence. I’ve developed a three-part listing strategy that goes far beyond what most agents offer. It starts with targeted pre-marketing to qualified buyers, includes a private off-market phase to test pricing and generate interest, and ends with a full MLS launch that maximizes exposure.

Not every home in Northwest Hills is listed publicly—and some of the best ones sell quietly, off-market. I maintain an active network of qualified buyers looking specifically in this neighborhood and use a data-backed outreach system to match them with potential sellers. This off-market approach helps clients sell with more control, less hassle, and better outcomes—often without ever going live onto the market.

I also invest heavily in marketing that actually reaches buyers. That includes cinematic video tours, targeted YouTube ads, SEO-driven content, and a strong presence across Instagram and Facebook. These aren’t just vanity metrics—they generate real leads and have directly helped my listings sell faster and for more money. In fact, many of my buyers first discover Northwest Hills homes through my YouTube channel or social media.

If you’re considering a move, or just want honest insight into your options, let’s talk. I’ll give you a clear strategy, backed by real data and local expertise—let's have a quick chat.