One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to get moving outdoors. Whether that is a workout in the park, a leisurely walk around Austin’s historic sites, or a dip in one of our many swimming holes. Here is our roundup of eight ways you can get moving around Austin this Mental Health Month (or anytime!).
8 Ways to Get Moving Around Austin
1. FREE Weekly Workouts at Waterloo Greenway
From March 28 to June 12, Ascension Seton will present free weekly workout classes at Austin’s new Waterloo Greenway Park in partnership with Castle Hill Fitness, Aging is Cool, and Esquina Tango. Classes include yoga, dance and more! Check the schedule to find class details, dates and times.
2. Take a Historic Bike Tour
Preservation Austin and Bike Austin have partnered to provide self-guided bike tours around some of the city’s most interesting historical sites. Tours include a corresponding GPS-enabled bike route that will guide you across the city as you dive into the past.
3. Visit McKinney Falls State Park
Located only 13 miles from the Texas State Capitol, McKinney Falls State Park offers short hikes, camping, bike trails, fishing and more, all within the city limits. Book a weekend camping trip or spend the day exploring all this park has to offer.
4. Bike the Hike & Bike Trail
Austin’s Hike & Bike Trail is perfect for a bike ride, run or leisurely stroll. The trail has many access points and parking options, making it easy to find the best route for you – whether that’s a short walk or the full 10-mile loop. Feel like taking a bike? MetroBike has bike rental stations all along the trail.
5. Take a Dip in Barton Springs Pool
Located inside Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a spring-fed pool offering 68-to-70-degree water year-round. Day passes and season passes are available at a discount to Austin residents as well as free early morning and night swimming (no lifeguard on duty).
6. Tejano Walking Trail
The 4.9-mile-long Tejano Walking Trail offers a chance to learn about local history while getting some steps in around the East Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods. The trail takes about two and a half hours to complete and includes 24 historical sites.
7. Enjoy Botanical Garden Blooms
Stop and smell the roses at the Zilker Botanical Garden. This 26-acre garden features a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, prehistoric garden and a vibrant rose garden. Reservations are required at this time – discounted tickets are available to Austin residents.
8. Take a Hike
Whatever part of the city you call home, Austin has a trail nearby. Most of the trails in and around Austin are considered easy to moderate, and many are wheelchair and stroller friendly. Check out some of Austin’s top trails here.