Home to some of the most famous historical sights in Texas and surrounded by the stunning hill country, San Antonio is a great place for hiking. If you’re not an expert hiker or have limited time, there are a few shorter, easier options as well. There’s no need to pack your walking poles,  camp overnight, or tire out your feet. You can find several beautiful places to visit in less than a day in and around the city. Here are the top five hiking trails in San Antonio for beginners.

San Antonio River Walk

One of the top things to do in San Antonio is the River Walk. The fifteen-mile stretch starts in the city and with fantastic restaurants and shops to browse. Stop to sample the delicious traditional cuisine along the way. The River Walk also takes you to several famous sites in the city including museums and galleries. If you prefer you can also take a riverboat cruise for a guided tour of the area. 

Historic Mission Trails

San Antonio is famous for the Alamo and its neighboring historic missions. The trails are suitable for both hiking and cycling and are about ten miles in total. They count as a stretch of the San Antonio River Walk, but you’ll have to venture a little further. The sights you’ll see along the way are unmissable, however, and you can choose how many to stop at. As a minimum, check out the Alamo, Mission San Jose, and Mission Concepcion. You can learn more about these Spanish colonial missions and the trails from the official website.

For those of you looking for a nature break outside of the city, Rio Medina won’t disappoint. It’s perfect for a scenic stroll and has plenty of shady spots to take a break or have a picnic. This natural area is enhanced with 7 miles of trails with interpretive features representing the El Camino Real wagon trail. . There are also plenty of amenities such as restrooms and a campsite or pavilion you can rent.

Cibolo Conservation Center

The Cibolo Conservation Center is another ideal spot for nature lovers located about a half an hour drive away from San Antonio in the majestic Texan hill country. There are some lovely trails to stroll down and look out for local wildlife. You can even take part in a bat walk and nature night hike if you dare. It’s perfect for easy, yet educational hikes, and there are different types of ecosystems to explore all in one place. At Cibolo, you can find forests, prairies, marshland, and savannah. The trails are about three miles, so it’s possible to discover all of these in a day.

McKinney Falls State Park

Mckinney Falls State Park is slightly further out, at about an hour’s drive from San Antonio, but it’s well worth a visit. The three-mile trail will take you past stunning waterfalls, swimming holes, and impressive rock formations. If you’re looking for a break from the city, and perhaps a swim as well, Mckinney Falls State Park is perfect. You’ll return to San Antonio feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.