4.7
(9723)
11,470
riders
Boardwalk – Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge loop from Austin
02:56
48.9km
160m
Gravel riding
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 10.8 km for 212 m
After 34.0 km for 58 m
After 34.5 km for 212 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.45 km
Waller Delta
Lake
22.1 km
Southern Walnut Creek Greenbelt
Highlight • Cycleway
It's an incredibly scenic and traffic-free route that provides the perfect location for an enjoyable cycle.
Tip by
22.9 km
Ruins
Ruins
24.8 km
South Walnut Creek
Highlight • River
39.9 km
Boardwalk
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
40.5 km
Ladybird Bike Trail (southside)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
43.4 km
Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
43.8 km
View of Austin skyline from Butler Shores at Lady Bird Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
44.6 km
Barton Creek
Lake
45.7 km
Winding Path in Zilker Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
46.2 km
Zilker Botanical Garden
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
47.1 km
Jolin Lookout
Viewpoint
48.9 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
18.4 km
12.5 km
11.7 km
4.28 km
1.98 km
131 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
19.0 km
12.9 km
10.2 km
6.42 km
474 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 3 July
37°C
25°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a gravel biking route that perfectly blends urban energy with natural beauty, the Boardwalk – Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge loop from Austin is a fantastic choice. This moderate 30.4-mile (48.9 km) route packs in 521 feet (159 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete. It's ideal for riders who want a solid workout with constant visual interest, though you'll be sharing the path with many others.
What to expect on Boardwalk – Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge loop from Austin
Expect a dynamic ride as you navigate surfaces from finely crushed hardpack to looser rocks and even some deteriorating paved sections. The route truly shines with its scenic waterside stretches along Lady Bird Lake, culminating in the architectural marvel of the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge. This distinctive "double curve" bridge offers idyllic viewpoints of the Austin skyline, especially at sunrise or sunset. While the 521 feet (159 metres) of elevation gain is manageable, the shared-use nature of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail means you'll need to be mindful of walkers and other cyclists, so don't plan on setting any speed records. It's a great option for those who enjoy a social ride with plenty to see.
Planning your visit
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which forms a significant part of this loop, is Austin's most popular recreational area, attracting over 2.6 million visits annually. This means the trail can get very busy, especially on weekends and during peak hours. To avoid the heaviest crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, consider riding early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Be aware that many Central Texas trails, due to high clay content, do not handle water well; it's best to avoid the route when muddy to prevent trail erosion. For more information on the trail, you can visit austintexas.gov.
Trail details
- Distance: 30.4 miles (48.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 521 feet (159 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 56 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free