Wildflowers at McKinney Falls State Park

“You belong among the wildflowers
You belong somewhere close to me
Far away from your trouble and worry
You belong somewhere you feel free”

- Tom Petty “Wildflowers”

I am taking full advantage of the wildflower season here in Texas. While most wildflowers will be around through April, bluebonnets peak in March.

One of the main reasons I fell in love with Austin, TX so quickly was the ample access to green spaces in and around the city. Only minutes from Downtown Austin (18 miles from the state capitol), McKinney Falls State Park is an unexpected refuge and an easy place to sneak away for a few hours. McKinney Falls is also beginner and family-friendly, with a few paved and flat trails and ample picnic spaces.

It feels very manageable, with well-marked trails, friendly ranger staff, and, in most places, enough people around to feel close to civilization. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail has a hard surface, that is even good for strollers.

If you've been to McKinney Falls before, you're familiar with the crowded areas around the actual falls and corresponding swimming hole. Hike just a little farther to the 6-ish mile Williamson Creek Overlook Trail (via the Homestead Trail), and I promise you'll go from small crowds to a trail practically to yourself. I found this trail during the pandemic while searching AllTrails for trail running spots, and it remains one of my go-to spots when I need a run under 7 miles.

At a bird’s-eye view

There are around 9 miles of trails, ranging from under a mile to around 7 miles, with plenty of shade once you're past the trailhead. Are you looking to camp? McKinney Falls has 81 campsites with water and electricity and a few newly remodeled cabins.

Book your day pass ahead of time. McKinney Falls is an Austin favorite and is typically full on summer weekends and holidays.

Take your time, bring more water than you think you need, and stop to appreciate the view.

-Matt