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Family-friendly hiking spots in Williamson County By April S. Kelley
With more than 2,600 acres of parks and trails stretching across Williamson County, it’s easy to find a familyfriendly hike beneath the warming spring sun on any given day. Not sure where to go? Check out the handy-dandy list below of the best hiking trails to explore with your family, all within the county. Brushy Creek Regional Trail This 7.75 mile, mostly concrete, trail is about as family-friendly as one can get - all without being boring. From scenic views to parks and ponds, families can find something for everyone, as the trail winds its way from Cedar Park through Round Rock. Several access points along Brushy Creek make it easy to hike a different part each time, and it is one of the easiest hikes, suitable for strollers, a rambunctious toddler or even favorite furry friendship.
Chisholm Trail Crossing Round Rock’s most well-known park, featuring the town’s namesake, is likely the most family-friendly trail in the area, with playscapes for all ages, sculptures and a trail winding through nature, history and community. Though the park is only 1.51 acres, it is bursting with potential for the perfect spring day.
San Gabriel River Trail The San Gabriel River Trail in Georgetown offers 6.6 miles of trails, featuring natural springs 16
Chisholm Trail Crossing
and culminating at the historic “Blue Hole” swimming hole. While important to note one of the area’s best swimming holes, especially come summer, this trail provides so much more than a preview of summer fun. Blue Hole never dries up, regardless of drought conditions, and even if it’s too cold to swim, it is one of the most beautiful sights in Williamson county. Part of this mixed-surface trail does not work well with a stroller, but it is easy and safe for children to walk along.
Southwest Williamson County Regional Park Southwest Williamson County Regional Park literally has it all, sports fields and courts, playscapes, trails, a train and even a splash pad in summer months. Several natural, mixed-surface trails run across the more than 500 acres that make up this park. And the kids can take a ride on the Cedar Rock Railroad miniature train, which travels alongside and through the trails, adding an extra level of excitement to an already awesome park. Therefore, be sure to keep safe and be on the lookout for the train when hiking or biking the trails.
Brushy Creek Regional Trail
Photo Credit: April S. Kelley
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