Hiking & State Parks Near Lake Travis

The North Shore of Lake Travis is flanked by limestone ridges, cedar-oak woodlands, and the rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country. From resort trails accessible directly from your rental to world-class state parks within an hour’s drive, the area offers serious hiking for all ability levels.

On the North Shore

The Hollows Resort Trail System

Guests staying in The Hollows have access to 15 miles of paved and natural-surface trails winding through the resort’s 1,400 acres. Trails connect the Beach Club, overlooks, and residential neighborhoods. Accessible by foot, bike, or golf cart.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Surface: Paved paths and packed gravel
• Highlights: Lake Travis overlooks, canyon views, wildlife (deer, wild turkey, occasional axis deer)

Escalon Ranch Trails

Guests at Escalon Ranch properties have access to the community’s private trail network through cedar and oak woodlands.

State Parks Within 30–60 Minutes

Pedernales Falls State Park (~45 min west)

One of the most spectacular state parks in Central Texas. The Pedernales River cuts through layered limestone, creating dramatic waterfalls and swimming holes. Hiking ranges from a short 0.5-mile falls overlook walk to 7+ mile backcountry loops.

• Swimming: Natural river swimming in calm sections below the falls (when water levels permit)
• Camping: Primitive and developed sites available
• Trails: Wolf Mountain Trail (7 mi), Trammel Crossing Trail (3 mi)

Address: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636

Inks Lake State Park (~55 min west)

Colorado River water — striking blue-green color unique to this part of Texas. Swimming, kayaking, paddleboating, and hiking trails along the lake and granite outcrops.

• Highlight: Blue-green water from dissolved limestone — unlike any lake in Texas
• Trails: 7+ miles of trails through pink granite formations

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (~75 min west)

A massive pink granite dome rising 425 feet above the surrounding countryside. One of the most iconic natural landmarks in Texas.

• Summit hike: 1-mile round trip to the dome summit — steep, exposed, no shade
• Best time to visit: Arrive at opening (7 AM) on weekends; the park regularly sells out by late morning
• Pro tip: Book a timed entry ticket on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website in advance

Lake Georgetown (San Gabriel Park) (~40 min north)

The San Gabriel River arm of Lake Georgetown offers excellent hiking through cedar-dominated Hill Country terrain. The Good Water Trail is a challenging 26-mile loop around the lake — great for day sections.

Swimming Holes

Hamilton Pool Preserve (~45 min south)

A collapsed grotto with a 50-foot waterfall emptying into a jade-green pool. One of the most photographed swimming holes in Texas. Requires advance timed-entry permit (book via Travis County Parks).

Krause Springs (~35 min southwest)

A private swimming hole near Spicewood with 32 springs, a small waterfall, and a cypress-lined swimming area. Day passes available.

Blue Hole Regional Park — Wimberley (~60 min south)

The Cypress Creek swimming hole at Blue Hole is a beloved Hill Country classic. Advance reservations required in summer.

Trail Running

The North Shore terrain — limestone ridges, cedar breaks, and canyon drainages — is well-suited for trail running. The Hollows trail system is the most accessible option from our properties. For more challenging terrain, Pedernales Falls and Enchanted Rock offer excellent single-track.

Tips for Hikers

• Hydration: Always carry more water than you think you need. The Hill Country is hot and dry March–October.
• Rattlesnakes: Present throughout the Hill Country — watch where you step and reach, especially on rocky trails.
• Sunrise starts: Summer hiking should start before 8 AM. Most trails have minimal shade.
• State park passes: Texas State Parks Pass ($70/year) provides unlimited day access to all Texas state parks — worth it if you visit two or more parks in a trip.

Browse our vacation rentals in The Hollows to access resort trail access directly from your front door.