FATMAP by Strava

Barton Creek Loop

Barton Creek is widely regarded as some of the best mountain bike trails in the city of Austin.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance
15 km
Ascent
190 m
Descent
190 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
161 m
High Point
235 m
Gradient
Barton Creek Loop Map

The Barton Creek singletrack trails, bisected by the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, are widely regarded as some of the best mountain bike trails in the city of Austin. As with most urban mountain biking in Austin, the options are legion, and almost nothing is signed. Therefore, this 9-mile loop through the area should be considered an introductory loop that anchors the zone. Once you begin to understand the area a bit better, you'll be able to spot alternate routes and short, intriguing trails. And if you see anything that you want to explore, go check it out: side excursions are encouraged.

Description

The trails shown here are mostly pedal-friendly cross country trails alternating from smooth and flowy to rocky and chunky. With this combination of trails, you can quite easily enjoy a fantastic pedal through this beautiful area.

However, Barton Creek is best known for its short, steep chutes that plunge straight down the steep hillsides. There are multiple chute options, and a bit of exploration is definitely encouraged to find the best ones. For short sections, these chutes can approach a "Severe" FATMAP difficulty rating, but they're all over quickly. If you get in over your head, you can easily walk down the chute and return to an easier trail.

Sources: https://www.spinlister.com/blog/barton-creek-greenbelt-austin-mtb-trail/ https://mikesbikesandtours.com/barton-creek-mountain-biking-tour https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IJrJjQU80&abchannel=Gotdurt https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo1lwTrqTE&abchannel=MoandHannah

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Technical
  • Singletrack
  • Drops
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area