Best Places to Walk in San Antonio

Most Scenic San Antonio Walking Trails

San Antonio RiverWalk (Mission Reach)

McAllister Park Blue Loop Trail

For a longer trail experience, McAllister Park Blue Loop Trail offers a 10.1 km loop with only 69 meters of elevation gain, completed in just over 2 hours. The trail is great for walking and running. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and there are restrooms and water fountains throughout the park. Since parts of the trail are exposed to the sun, early morning hikes are recommended during the hotter months. Parking is abundant here, making access easy and convenient.

Yucca and Hillview Nature Trail Loop North (Eisenhower Park)

For a shorter nature walk, Yucca and Hillview Nature Trail Loop North is a 3.7 km trail with 71 meters of elevation gain, taking under an hour to complete. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and its beginner-friendly nature makes it ideal for families. The trail is well-marked, shaded, and perfect for birdwatching.

La Villita Neighborhood

Photo Credit @ Trip Advisor

Bosque, Vern Del, Juniper Ridge, and Main Trails Loop (Friedrich Wilderness Park)

The Bosque, Vern Del, Juniper Ridge, and Main Trails Loop offers a shorter 4.3 km loop with 110 meters of elevation gain and takes about an hour. Like other trails in Friedrich Wilderness Park, dogs are not allowed. The trail passes through diverse landscapes, including open forests, steep hills, and canyons, and is popular for birdwatching. This trail is excellent for spotting rare wildflowers and endangered birds, and parking is readily available at the park's entrance.

Joe Johnston Route and Sendero Balcones Loop

For a longer and more adventurous trail, Joe Johnston Route and Sendero Balcones Loop in Government Canyon State Natural Area offers 15 km of scenic walking through mixed ecosystems with 199 meters of elevation gain, taking about 3 hours and 20 minutes. Dogs are not allowed. The trail features areas with dinosaur tracks and rocky sections, so sturdy shoes are essential. Parking is available at the entrance, and reservations are recommended as the park is often busy.

Garner State Park

Garner State Park, about a 1.5-hour drive from San Antonio, is a must-visit. The park offers over 16 miles of walking trails, including the steep but rewarding Old Baldy Trail. After walking, you can cool off in the Frio River. Garner State Park is very popular, so reservations are highly recommended.

Salado Greenway Trail North from Hardberger Park

Photo Credit @ Trip Advisor

It’s a 13 km out-and-back trail with a gentle elevation gain of 57 meters, usually completed in about 2.5 hours. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and the trail includes multiple rest areas, water fountains, and dog parks. Its mostly flat and well-maintained path makes it accessible and safe for all skill levels. Parking is available near the park entrance.

King William Historic District

If you're interested in a historical walking experience, the King William Historic District offers a unique self-guided walking tour. This neighborhood, known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century mansions built by German immigrants, takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore. This is an easy, flat walk perfect for leisurely exploration.

Pearl District

A short distance from downtown, The Pearl District offers a modern, walkable neighborhood filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. On weekends, visitors can also enjoy the Pearl Farmers Market.

Historic Market Square

Photo Credit @TripAdvisor

Brackenridge Park

Nature lovers should not miss Brackenridge Park, a sprawling urban green space featuring gardens, trails, and the Japanese Tea Garden. It's a great place for a relaxed walk and wildlife spotting, and dogs are welcome on a leash.

Downtown San Antonio

Crownridge Canyon Natural Area

For those seeking a less crowded trail experience, Crownridge Canyon Natural Area offers peaceful trails just minutes from Friedrich Wilderness Park. Its two trails feature forested canyon bottoms, scenic overlooks, and restored grasslands, all within a compact 200-acre preserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the famous walk in San Antonio called?

No trip to San Antonio would be complete without walking the RiverWalk, a 15-mile network of walkways along the scenic San Antonio River. This pedestrian-friendly trail is lined with restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks. You can even take a GO RIO River Cruise for a unique water-based tour. The RiverWalk is fully paved, making it suitable for all visitors, including those with strollers or mobility devices.

What is the walkable area of San Antonio?

Beyond the RiverWalk, neighborhoods like The Pearl District, King William Historic District, and Southtown offer beautifully maintained sidewalks, unique architecture, boutique shopping, and dining.

Is it safe to walk around San Antonio RiverWalk?

Yes, the San Antonio RiverWalk is generally considered a safe area for walking, both during the day and in the evening. As one of the city's most visited attractions, it is well-patrolled by local police and security, and there is a strong presence of tourists and locals, especially near the downtown section where the restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues are located. 

The paths are well-lit at night, and the city maintains them regularly to ensure a pleasant walking experience. However, like in any major city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly if walking late at night in less busy areas of the RiverWalk.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to escape into nature, explore history, or enjoy a casual city stroll, San Antonio’s diverse trails and walking areas offer something for everyone. Many of these trails are located in state parks or natural areas, offering miles of trails through the stunning Hill Country landscape. If you’re looking for a more leisurely walk, some parks even have adjacent golf courses, providing an elegant green backdrop to your outdoor adventure.