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I remember when I bought my first "fancy" road bike in Austin I rode it mayyybeee 5 times in the first few months. I was comfortable on a bike. I knew Austin well. But I was nervous to get started. I didn't know routes and, hell, I barely knew how to work my new fancy gears.
If this sounds like you, you're not alone! In a city where cyclists are everywhere, it can be a bit intimidating and daunting to get out there.
After years of biking around the city, I finally feel comfortable venturing on my own and planning routes. But, for me, that took time. If you're looking to get on your bike, but don't know where to start, I put together some fantastic beginner cycling spots to consider.
*This list includes a mix of road and gravel/mountain biking trails.
Northern Walnut Creek Trail
I love Walnut Creek! One of the best gifts to Austin, in my opinion.
The Walnut Creek Sidewalk Trail is a popular choice among beginners due to its flat terrain and smooth sidewalk path. This is also a popular place for mountain biking on the trails that surround the sidewalk trail. There are a few beginner-friendly trails, such as the Log Loop and Point Six Loop.
The 4.4 mile main sidewalk trail is perfect for those looking for a leisurely ride with options to extend your journey on connecting mountain trails or neighborhood streets.
Parking: Park at the Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park or neighborhoods around Bittern Hollow Rd.
Type: Road and mountain biking (beginner-friendly trail options)
Shoal Creek Road
Shoal Creek Road is a popular destination for many cyclists. It's is a relatively flat and easily accessible route, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, especially beginners. The road is also adorned with a dedicated bike lane, which is an important safe way to get introduced to road biking.
As you pedal along, you'll find yourself immersed with abundant tree-lined sections that provide pleasant shade, even on the hottest Texas days.
Type: Road ride
Parking: Pretty much any neighborhood road near Shoal Creek
Southern Walnut Creek Trail
Website The Southern Walnut Creek Trail is another excellent option for beginners. With its smooth surface and minimal elevation changes, this 19.7 mile trail is a great choice for riders of all skill levels. The trail is a mix of nature and urban scenery. It's super enjoyable.
This is a great beginner road ride, which you can also make a bit challenging depending on your mileage. I usually bike from Govalle park to Johnny Morrison Rd. which is an easy-ish 7.3 miles (14.6 out and back). Or you can keep going for a longer ride.
Parking: Lots of parking is available at Govalle Neighborhood Park, 5200 Bolm Rd, Austin, TX 78721
Type: Road trail
The Veloway
Website | 4900 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
I can't recommend the Veloway enough! Only 3.1 miles, it sounds lame and boring, but this loop is exclusively for cyclists and rollerbladers, providing a smooth asphalt surface and minimal traffic. This dedicated cycling path is perfect for beginners looking to ride in a safe and controlled environment.
It's an ideal spot for those wanting to gain confidence and practice cycling in a traffic-free zone.
Parking: Parking lot and street parking available.
Type: Road Trail
Side-tip: If you're in the market for a new helmet, I absolutely love mine! It fits just right, and is actually very cute! You can find directly from Amazon here.
Pace Bend Park
Website | 2805 Pace Bend Road North, Spicewood, TX 78669
If you're looking to get a little out of Austin and into the Hill Country, Pace Bend is the perfect place to try some Hill Country roads without planning your route and dealing with high-traffic points. There's about a 7-mile paved road that loops around the park, which is perfect for beginners.
Pace Bend Park is one of my favorite day trips: Bike for a few miles. Swim a bit. Each a hot dog. Doesn't get any better.
There is also great mountain biking here if you're feeling brave. This is a bit more intermediate/advanced.
Parking: You'll have to pay an entrance fee for day-use parking
Type: Road (and mountain biking for intermediate cyclists)
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