Austin Family Friendly Bike Trails
I can tell you from experience that once children learn how to ride a bicycle they are eager to get out and explore. The challenge is finding safe trails for them to ride on. New riders might have a hard time staying in a bike lane on city streets or even staying on their bikes! Central Austin neighborhoods are terribly lacking in sidewalks. The safest bet is to seek out one of our many off street trails. We have explored several in Austin and here are a few of our favorites.
Roy and Ann Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Better known as the trail around Lady Bird Lake, this is our favorite for a few reasons. First, it is a few blocks from our house. We can bike right down to the trail and avoid having to pack up the car with bikes and gear. Second, it is a nice soft trail that is mostly flat. So, the girls can ride for quite a while without getting tired. We also like the fact that there are lots of places to stop off of the trail to grab a snack, lunch, dessert or a drink. It gives the kids a rest and added motivation. We try to avoid peak trail use hours (after work, early weekend hours) when the trail can be really crowded. Regardless, the trail is so wide in most areas that the kids have never had a problem.
Veloway
This 3.1 mile paved track in the Circle C neighborhood is strictly for bicycle and inline skating use (remember Rollerblades?). I don't think we have ever seen someone skating on it when we have used it. The track is sooooo smooth and almost entirely flat. It is also very wide and one way. So, no need to worry about bikes or anyone else coming towards your new bicycle rider from the other direction. On the negative side, your little learner needs to be able to ride 3.1 miles since it is one way. There are also some speedy serious cyclists out there but they are usual very vocal as they pass in the left lane. No snack breaks along this route and little shade. So, bring water and snacks.
Walnut Creek Park
This park in North Austin has a variety of bike trails from paved trails to wooded trails. The options are endless and make a good option for newer riders that can't make it as far. The park is also great because it has lots of other options including a pool, playground, and the creek for playing in the water.
Mueller
The Mueller development has lots of great flat trails that wind around the large central park and into the neighborhood. They are flat and a mix of paved and gravel. Again, this one allows for shorter routes for new riders. Bonus points for the playground, pond, and all the food and entertainment options at Mueller including The Thinkery, Alamo Drafthouse, and Lick ice cream!
These are some our family's favorites in Austin. Does your family have a favorite bike trail in Austin or the city you live in?
