Violet Crown Trail

NEW: Check out Pam LeBlanc’s recent article in the Austin American Statesman: “Trail builders gearing up for work on second phase of Violet Crown Trail.”

Hill Country Conservancy and the City of Austin are proud to announce The Violet Crown Trail. The regional trail system, formerly known as “Walk for a Day” will begin at Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park and wind more than 30 miles south into Hays County. The trail system will provide a unique opportunity for business, conservation, education, and recreational interests to align to benefit the entire community.

Click here to read the Violet Crown Trail press release.
Click here to view a PDF of the trail plan.

Austin’s newest hiking trail – 30 miles along the Barton Creek Greenbelt

Although most would agree that land conservation benefits our community in many ways, it is an ongoing challenge to provide equitable, accessible opportunities to experience conservation first-hand. The relationships between people and the land are often best fostered by outdoor recreation and regular interactions with the natural world.

HCC's Project Manager, Butch Smith, explaining the Violet Crown Trail to the rest of the staff.

Imagine a trail system through Hays and Travis counties where one could run, hike or bike for an entire day! Envision trails surrounded by cool clean streams, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views. This vision is becoming a reality, as HCC has begun strategic planning to complete land acquisition and construct what will comprise a regional “Walk-for-a-Day” trail system.

The trail will begin at Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) and meander for approximately 30 miles through The Barton Creek Greenbelt, urban environments and several historic Texas ranches now owned and managed for water-quality and wildlife habitat by the City of Austin.

Violet Crown Trail - Click the image to view a larger version.

Our partners on the Violet Crown Trail include:

Violet Crown Trail in the News

NEW: Pam LeBlanc’s recent article in the Austin American Statesman: “Trail builders gearing up for work on second phase of Violet Crown Trail.”

Support the Trail

Butch and Jim Innes exploring the trail

Hill County Conservancy and its partners continue to plan a conceptual route for the trail system and will convene a group of stakeholders to garner public input in 2009. To provide financial support for the “Walk-for-a-Day” trail system, visit our Get Involved page.