Five Top Austin-Area Nature Spots To Enjoy This Spring Break

AUSTIN, TX—With Spring Break nearing full swing in Austin, this week's round-up will center on suggestions for families and individuals to enjoy their vacation with an emphasis on keeping healthy. Check out some of the great nature spots to visit in and around Austin this Spring Break, and explore fun and creative ways to enjoy a vacation right in your own backyard.

In light of the recent health advisory regarding coronavirus or COVID-19, many Austin businesses and programs have been postponed out of an abundance of caution. For families traveling or visiting locales, please follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to stay healthy or prevent the transfer of illness.

These include cleaning your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or with hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol when soap and water aren't readily available, and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are sick and maintain distance.

To prevent the possible spread of illness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises to stay home if sick and calling your healthcare provider if you're not feeling well. Cover coughs and sneezes with tissue and discard in trash, or use the inside of your elbow to sneeze or cough if you don't have a tissue handy. Follow by washing hands a minimum of 20 seconds. And remember to disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.

Have story ideas? Feel free to reach out and offer feedback on ways to keep busy this Spring Break.

Five Top Nature Spots In and Around Austin:

• Hamilton Greenbelt & Hurst Hollow Preserve: Offering several miles of both developed and primitive trails winding along Hurst and Yaupon Creeks, the hike routes are family-friendly with shorter difficult terrains easily traversed by any level of hiker. Along the way, you'll see waterfalls, take multiple creek crossings, and check out spectacular views of Lake Travis at the far end of the route. 19 miles northwest of Austin. Driving directions HERE. 1173 Lohman's Crossing Rd., Lakeway, TX 78734
• Hamilton Pool Loop: Enjoy a short hike and a shallow beach area make this a perfect spot to explore for nature-lovers. Following rainfalls, you're likely to see the beautiful waterfall that makes this destination a popular attraction for visitors. No lifeguards on duty, and please be aware of closures at certain times of the year when designated due to increases in bacteria levels. Reservations are required daily from March - October and on weekends and holidays the remainder of the year and can be made online. 30 miles northwest of Austin. Driving directions HERE. Dripping Springs, Texas 78620
• Pedernales Falls State Park: A popular getaway for adventurers of all ages, Pedernales Falls along the Pedernales River is an ideal spot to visit this Spring Break. The scenic views offer the perfect backdrop for activities available such as hiking, swimming, mountain biking, wading, tubing, kayaking and horseback riding. The wide Pedernales River flows peacefully most of the year and the bluffs surrounding it create an ideal rugged landscape for more experienced hikers and bikers. 30 miles west of Austin. Driving directions HERE. Pedernales River State Park Trail Head, Johnson City, TX 78636
• River Place Nature Trail: This out-of-the-way spot is a great option for more experienced hikers with stamina for the countless stairs that afford a steep climb. Tucked away in the River Place Neighborhood, there is a $10 per person fee to access the trail, and cash is not accepted, so be sure to bring your credit card. The peaceful scenery and more technical terrain makes this trail an ideal spot for more experienced hikers and runners. The creek offers kids the opportunity to explore, however, the stairs and climb may be a bit more challenging for younger children. 15 miles northwest of Austin. Driving directions HERE. Big View Dr, Austin, TX 78730
• Homestead Trail Loop: If you're looking to stay within the city limits, you'll want to check out the Homestead Trail Loop within McKinney Falls State Park. Offering campsites and opportunities for adventuring including camping, hiking, biking, bouldering, geocaching and picnicking, this destination is the ideal spot for families and nature lovers of any age. Lush landscapes, abundant wildlife and picturesque scenery offer visitors the perfect opportunity to get away without ever having to leave the city. 10 miles south of Downtown Austin. Driving directions HERE. Homestead Trail, Austin, TX 78744