The Austin-San Antonio Corridor is an important metroplex that includes two of America’s fastest-growing cities. While this region is best known for its culture and increasing economic relevance, the natural sites across the Greater Austin and San Antonio area are also a pivotal part of its appeal.
Austin and San Antonio have beautiful natural sites in and around their cities, including waterfalls, state parks, and lakes. If you are an outdoor enthusiast in the Austin and San Antonio area, we’ve assembled a list of the region’s most scenic natural attractions.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is one of the biggest lakes in Texas, stretching 60 miles and reaching a depth of more than 100 feet at its deepest. Lake Travis is just outside of Austin and is a popular day trip destination for those looking to spend a relaxing outing on the water. Lake Travis is popular for swimming, boating, and fishing, and many resorts and restaurants line the shore.
McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park, just miles from the heart of Austin, is a scenic hotspot to escape the noise of the city. McKinney Falls State Park has several trails and campsites across 641 acres of natural space. The park’s main attraction is at the confluence of two creeks where beautiful waterfalls flow. You can swim in and hike around the famous Upper and Lower Falls.
Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell is an excellent site to visit for panoramic vistas of the Austin area. This vantage point in Covert Park has several relaxing trails that wind up to its peak. It is based along the Colorado River, and from the pinnacle, visitors can view Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding landscape. It has been a popular tourism destination for over a century and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is the largest urban ecosystem in the nation. Located below street level, this 15-mile stretch of urban outdoor space along the San Antonio River is one of the state’s most famous places to explore. The River Walk includes restaurants, shops, historical buildings, and more. It is an area that can be explored by foot or on a barge and is a must-see for any San Antonio visitor.
Blanco State Park
Blanco State Park is a 104-acre park centered around one mile of the Blanco River, where many park visitors choose to tube, swim, fish, canoe, or kayak. The park also has pleasant trails lined with cedar and pecan trees and a wilderness viewing area where visitors can spot some of the birds and small creatures that call the park home.
Guadalupe River State Park
Guadalupe River State Park, located along the Guadalupe River outside San Antonio, has four miles of river frontage for visitors to explore and dozens of campsites. Guadalupe River State Park is most popular for swimming, fishing, tubing, and rafting. The park is also an excellent hiking and mountain biking area, with 13 miles of trails through scenic natural sites.
