For many Austinites, visiting a local greenbelt makes up a considerable part of their leisure activities. In a city that averages 300 sunny days a year, it’s easy to understand that the locals tend to revel in outdoor activity.

Austin Greenbelt Sweetwater Living Central Texas Hiking nature waterfall
A short few minutes from the entrance and you can enjoy a 20ft waterfall

When someone mentions heading out to the greenbelt they’re more than likely talking about the Barton Creek greenbelt. But really, there are greenbelts all over central Texas and they have come to life with the last few months of heavy rainfall.

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Rustic trails over limestone

I recently took a short trip out on HWY 71 west toward Bee Caves to check out a greenbelt that’s nestled right inside the Sweetwater neighborhood.

Austin Greenbelt Sweetwater Living Central Texas Hiking nature spring creek flowing water
Recent rains have brought an abundance of flowing water throughout the trail system

Just like the popular Barton Creek greenbelt, it’s amazing feeling so close to nature right in the middle of a major city, or in the case of these lucky residents, literally almost right in your own backyard.

Austin Greenbelt Sweetwater Living Central Texas Hiking nature spring creek water clear reflection
Serene creeks to enjoy

The trails at Sweetwater were filled with places to stop and relax, most especially to briefly escape the Texas summer heat.

Austin Greenbelt Sweetwater Living Central Texas Hiking nature wildflower wildflowers mexican hat pickerelweed yellow purple blue sky
Pickerelweed (Purple) among large swaths of Mexican Hat (Yellow/Red)

Always a welcome sight, the wildflowers are in full bloom all around the area.

I can’t wait to revisit and check out another section of the local trails, one in particular is rumored to be spotted with hideaways used to harass historic carriage routes through the area.

See you soon!

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