Any time during the fall is the perfect time to get off the beaten path and soak up some stunning sunsets. During that time colorful leaves will crunch under your feet as the sweet autumn breezes blow through the trees. To help you along the way, here are seven of the best hikes in Texas – all of which are short and sweet and have a spectacular end view!

1. McKinney Falls State Park's Homestead Trail
McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, USA
Marcus Calderon/Flickr
This 3.1-mile loop located inside McKinney Falls State Park shimmers with beauty in autumn. This easy hike will take you along the lower falls and the lush forest. You'll pass by the historic homestead and see plenty of wildlife along the way! Located at 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy.
2. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Jon Clegg/Flickr
Only 2.5 miles of trails surround the stunning forested area that is the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. Packed with scenic views, these autumnal sunsets will whisk you away to another world. You'll love walking through this untouched natural wonderland at 805 North Capital of Texas Highway.
3. The Zilker Nature Preserve
Zilker Nature Preserve, 301 Nature Center Dr, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Austin Nature & Science Center/Facebook
Located inside the Austin Nature and Science Center at 2389 Stratford Drive, the Zilker Nature Preserve offers a quick and easy walk through woodland beauty. When the leaves change color and fall to the ground at this arguably one of the best hikes in Texas, the dry creek bed takes on a whole new life. It is also among the most kid-friendly hikes around Texas.
4. Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell, Mt Bonnell, Austin, TX 78731, USA
Andy Thrasher/Flickr
You can really soak up the fall colors from the top of Mount Bonnell. A quick climb up the stairs at 3800 Mt Bonnell Dr will lead you to some jaw-dropping views. If you're looking for the most beautiful fall hike near Austin, you've found it!
5. Post Oak Trail at The Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, 24518 Ranch Rd 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook
Take a day trip to Marble Falls or some supremely stunning autumn scenery. You'll love strolling through the half-mile Post Oak Trail tucked away inside the refuge headquarters. Bring your camera and snap some shots of this crisp foliage at 24518 FM 1431.
6. Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park
Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park, 907 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748, USA
Radwan Ktesh/Google Maps
Two miles of natural beauty can be found at Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park. In addition to the hiking trails, this gem in the southern portion of Austin has a disk golf course, a playground, and several picnic areas. You can explore this park at 907 Slaughter Ln.
7. Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail
Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX, USA
Matthew Rutledge/Flickr
You'll see loads of orange and red leaves along the Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail. This easy 2.9-mile loop is dog-friendly and fantastic for all skill levels. Explore the beauty at 6958 Old Spicewood Springs Rd.

Have you been on any of these hikes? Which ones were your favorites? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there.

If you want another awesome hike to add to your trail bucket list, you might consider the Spring Creek Nature Trail.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

Best hikes in Texas

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | August 01, 2022

Can you suggest a waterfall hike in Texas?

You’ll find that there are numerous picturesque waterfall hikes in Texas. And while none is necessarily more worthy than another, one that you might consider is the Spicewood Springs Trail. Extending approximately 3.8 miles, this trail located in Colorado Bend State Park actually features several waterfall-fed swimming holes so you have a lot of options.

I’m looking for a great brewery in the Austin area.

There are so many outstanding breweries in the Austin area where you can enjoy a pint that it's hard to suggest one over another. However, Lazarus Brewing Company is definitely one to try. The space is absolutely beautiful and spacious and has been a welcome addition to the East Austin area since it first opened. One of the things that makes it so unique is that it doesn’t just focus on beer and perhaps a few side snacks. Here you can enjoy a wide array of fantastic beers, coffee, and creative culinary fare. It’s a win-win all the way around!

What are some things to do at the San Antonio River Walk?

That’s easy — everything! Extending an astounding 15 miles, the San Antonio River Walk — aptly named after the city in which it was created—is one of the best river walks in the country. In addition to its scenic beauty and walkability of it, you find tons of awesome restaurants, live music venues, eclectic bars, and great shopping. And the people-watching is amazing here too!

Related Articles