Austin offers you an unforgettable cycling experience with more than 30 miles of urban trails paired with a funky art scene and fantastic food. Rated as one of the top bike-friendly in the US, this self-guided bike tour will show off everything Austin has to offer including impressive green spaces, urban bike trails, innovative art installations, as well as stunning parks and views of the Colorado River. You can spend your days cycling at your own pace, along the city’s many bike lanes revealing street art on every corner. Be sure to save some energy for the evenings as you discover why this great town is known as the live music capital of the world. Austin also has no shortage of world-class culinary offerings from barbecue, to tacos trucks, to James Beard Award-winning eateries. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to get your fill of food, fun and fantastic riding on this self-guided adventure. Learn more about Self-Guided trips and if they're right for you »
Stay in the cultural hub of Austin at a handpicked boutique hotel with live music every night
Cycle along the Colorado River and explore some of Austin's most impressive parks in the heart of the city, including Zilker Park - home of the famed Barton Springs
Explore the quirky neighborhoods and street art throughout the city. "Keep Austin Weird"
Savor Austin's colorful and vibrant food scene, from world-famous BBQ and iconic food truck tacos to farm-to-table fine dining
Choose from over 250 venues to fully experience the live music capital of the world
Austin skyline and the Colorado River
Dive into the true culture of Texas; bikes, BBQ, and live music
Bike through Austin's stellar urban trails by day; by night, savor its vibrant food scene and endless options for art, live music, and comedy.
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
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Overall, I thought the trip was excellent, our host was very helpful, and we would travel with Trek again.
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Our self-guided bike tour was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we intend to make a once-a-year experience!
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Great Ride
Austin's famous ride sweeps the western edge of Texas Hill Country with a steady climb and stunning views of the state Capitol and the Pennybacker Bridge.
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Where to Arrive
Airport:
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Pick-up location:
The Heywood Hotel, Austin, Texas
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Drop-off location:
The Heywood Hotel, Austin, Texas
Drop-off time:
11:00 AM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day before the start of your Austin Self-Guided bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Most major rental car companies are available at AUS, and other standard transportation options include ride services including Uber, Lyft, and Ride Austin.
From the airport, you can call a taxi or ride share to take you downtown. It is approximately 20 miles from the airport to the meeting day hotel in downtown Austin, and a taxi ride should take about 20-25 minutes and cost $40.
Your Trek Travel host will meet you in the lobby of The Heywood Hotel (1609 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, TX 78702) at 11:00 AM. Depending on number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Come prepared to ride in your cycling clothes and anything you will need for the day’s ride like personal pedals, saddles, etc. You may store your luggage with the hotel front desk if you have just arrived. Here your host will fit you to your Trek bike and make sure you are comfortable and well prepared for the week ahead. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, you'll then head out on your first bike ride in Austin.
If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host by calling Trek Bicycle Lamar store (512-477-3472), and provide them with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at The Heywood Hotel to collect your bike and equipment. From here you may choose to extend your stay in the area or secure a taxi back to the Austin-Bergstrom Airport. Do not book flights departing before 2:00 PM.
Welcome to the heart of Austin
Overview
You are sure to feel the city’s "weird" and wonderful vibes the moment you set foot in Austin. Drop your luggage off at the hotel’s front desk and be dressed and ready to ride as your host will meet you in the hotel lobby at 11:00 AM. Today you'll warm up your legs and get a taste of the city's impressive cycling infrastructure as you ride past many of the iconic murals across Austin including “I Love You So Much” and “You’re My Butter Half.” After you... You are sure to feel the city’s "weird" and wonderful vibes the moment you set foot in Austin. Drop your luggage off at the hotel’s front desk and be dressed and ready to ride as your host will meet you in the hotel lobby at 11:00 AM. Today you'll warm up your legs and get a taste of the city's impressive cycling infrastructure as you ride past many of the iconic murals across Austin including “I Love You So Much” and “You’re My Butter Half.” After your first day’s spin, the afternoon is yours to unwind. Need a suggestion for dinner? Just take a look at our carefully selected dining recommendations found in your Ride With GPS App. Read More
Hotel
The Heywood Hotel
Meals included
Highlight of the Day
Austin's iconic murals
Explore Austin's street art scene with a visit to some of the city's colourful and eclectic murals
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Austin Iconic Art Loop - Approximately 22 mi | 35 km and 1,150 ft | 350 m
Cycle sonic bike paths to quintessential small-town Texas
Overview
Austin’s Walnut Creek Trail is a nature lover’s delight as this paved trail takes you through a beautiful maze of trees and foliage on your way out of downtown Austin. Today you will ride to quintessential small-town Texas, where you can enjoy the many historic buildings in the city of Manor. If you’re hungry for lunch, you can enjoy some tacos - a culinary staple in Texas, before heading back to Austin along the scenic Walnut creek trail. If you’re looking ... Austin’s Walnut Creek Trail is a nature lover’s delight as this paved trail takes you through a beautiful maze of trees and foliage on your way out of downtown Austin. Today you will ride to quintessential small-town Texas, where you can enjoy the many historic buildings in the city of Manor. If you’re hungry for lunch, you can enjoy some tacos - a culinary staple in Texas, before heading back to Austin along the scenic Walnut creek trail. If you’re looking for a shorter ride, cycle through charming neighborhoods and have a grand lunch at Thicket Food park. Here you can take your pick from a number of food trucks, enjoy live music, and take in a classic afternoon in Austin. Read More
Hotel
The Heywood Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Walnut Creek Trail to Manor City & Return - Approximately 37 mi | 60 km and 1,200 ft | 366 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Thicket Park Lunch Loop - Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 800 ft | 244 m
Ride Option 3
AVID OPTION:
Walnut Creek Trail to Manor City Loop - Approximately 47 mi | 76 km and 1,600 ft | 488 m
Cycle the Iconic 360 Loop
Overview
After a hearty breakfast, prepare to tackle a classic and challenging ride that boasts beautiful and iconic urban views of downtown Austin. It's best to get an early start today as this route does see its fair share of traffic during rush hours. The ride includes a spin on the bike path across one of the most photographed features of Austin — the Pennybacker Bridge. This iconic, popular bridge crossing over the Colorado River is one of the highlights of the ride,... After a hearty breakfast, prepare to tackle a classic and challenging ride that boasts beautiful and iconic urban views of downtown Austin. It's best to get an early start today as this route does see its fair share of traffic during rush hours. The ride includes a spin on the bike path across one of the most photographed features of Austin — the Pennybacker Bridge. This iconic, popular bridge crossing over the Colorado River is one of the highlights of the ride, but certainly not the only one. If your legs are not too tired this evening, consider heading to the Broken Spoke, an old-fashioned honky-tonk that’s been known as one of the best dance halls in Texas since opening in 1964. Get ready for a lively night of great music and a little two-stepping! Please note we strongly recommend you feel comfortable riding in traffic if you cycle today's route options. Read More
Hotel
The Heywood Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Ride over the Pennybacker Bridge
The iconic Pennybacker Bridge, also known as the Austin 360 Bridge, offers incredible panoramic views over the Colorado River.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Austin 360 Loop - Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 1,900 ft | 580 m
Ride Option 2
AVID OPTION:
North Hill Loop - Approximately 53 mi | 85 km and 3,300 ft | 1,005 m
Say farewell with a spin past Lady Bird Lake
Overview
Your final ride takes you through a mixture of green spaces and more historic sites of Austin. Loosen up your legs as you pass the State Capitol and roll through the recreational area of Zilker Park, a lush oasis that sits alongside Ladybird Lake, for your final ride. Alternatively, take this morning to sleep in and grab a coffee at one of the many locally-owned coffee shops downtown or pick up some last-minute gifts before checkout. Your time in Austin has been ful...
Your final ride takes you through a mixture of green spaces and more historic sites of Austin. Loosen up your legs as you pass the State Capitol and roll through the recreational area of Zilker Park, a lush oasis that sits alongside Ladybird Lake, for your final ride. Alternatively, take this morning to sleep in and grab a coffee at one of the many locally-owned coffee shops downtown or pick up some last-minute gifts before checkout. Your time in Austin has been full of charm, attitude, and the kind of memories that will surely last forever!
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Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Ladybird Lake
Enjoy the bike trails along Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake), the easternmost of a chain of reservoirs on the Colorado River.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Capital Loop - Approximately 17 mi | 27 km and 600 ft | 183 m
View full itinerary to print.
View full itineraryThere are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Non-riders are welcome on a Self-Guided trip if they are staying in the same room with a riding guest. Non-riders will be offered a $500 discount from the trip price. Please contact a trip consultant for details and to book a non-riding companion. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip—please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
On a self-guided tour you need to feel comfortable changing a flat, as this is a common event when cycling. All self-guided trips include Ride With GPS, which is like having a personal guide in your pocket! You'll get turn-by-turn directions and recommendations from Ride With GPS, plus the you'll have the added navigation support of a Garmin GPS. In the rare case of a bicycle breakdown or mechanical issue beyond a simple repair, your Ride With GPS app will have detailed contact information with emergency phone numbers to call for assistance. Learn more about our Self-Guided Bike Tours.
The Heywood Hotel is a modern boutique hotel featuring one of the most unique hotel experiences in the US. Creative, thoughtful design good coffee and ridiculously comfortable beds all help to make your stay in Austin as perfect as possible. Located just blocks from downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake Heywood Hotel offers the city’s best barbecue joints, microbreweries, honky-tonks, and craft cocktail lounges all just a short stroll from your door.
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Road
Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best bike on the road—a light weight, stable and technologically advanced machine to make even the hardest roads seem smooth and easy. Ride confidently, comfortably and longer in the most beautiful destinations around the world.
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E-Bike
This comfortable bike is perfectly designed to give you that little boost you want. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain.
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E-Bike
With its Low-Step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ 3 is super easy. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain.
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Your Day. You Decide.
Our self-guided vacations are designed to fit all types of travel styles. Whether you like to spend your time relaxing or on a non-stop adventure, you get to decide what your day looks like. Choose your mileage, itinerary, and experience level and leave the rest to us!
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Austin, Texas
Austin is the state capital of Texas, an inland city bordering the Hill Country region. Home to the University of Texas flagship campus, it's known for its live-music scene centered around country, blues, and rock. The many parks and lakes are popular for hiking, biking, swimming, and boating. South of the city, Formula One's Circuit of the Americas raceway has hosted the United States Grand Prix. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip stay in Austin:
Where to Stay
Omni Hotel and Resort
Capitalize on modern comfort and luxury amenities at Omni Austin Hotel Downtown, offering unparalleled experiences in the Lone Star State’s capital. Enjoy spectacular views, well-appointed accommodations, and easy access to the entertainment district. Whether you’re seeking high culture, live music, or an unforgettable event, you’ll always find what you’re looking for. www.omnihotels.com
Archer Hotel Austin
Archer Hotel is north Austin's most anticipated new hotel, bringing a luxe boutique hotel experience and sincere Southern hospitality to downtown Austin. With a nod to its Texan heritage, the eight-story boutique hotel mixes Texas limestone and wildflowers with the eclectic, creative soul of Austin. www.archerhotel.com
The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Originally built in 1924 as the city’s first high-rise hotel on Congress Avenue, the Stephen F. Austin’s rich history and luxurious accommodations offer a truly unique hotel experience in the heart of downtown Austin. Step outside our doors and be surrounded by the best of Austin's local attractions. The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel is centrally located in the heart of downtown Austin and near the historic E. 6th Street, where you'll experience the heart of the Austin music scene, restaurants, and a diverse selection of shops. www.sonesta.com
Average monthly temperature and precipitation
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 64.0°F· 17.8°C | 67.0°F· 19.4°C | 74.0°F· 23.3°C | 81.0°F· 27.2°C | 87.0°F· 30.6°C | 93.0°F· 33.9°C | 96.0°F· 35.6°C | 98.0°F· 36.7°C | 92.0°F· 33.3°C | 83.0°F· 28.3°C | 72.0°F· 22.2°C | 64.0°F· 17.8°C |
| Low | 41.0°F· 5.0°C | 45.0°F· 7.2°C | 51.0°F· 10.6°C | 59.0°F· 15.0°C | 67.0°F· 19.4°C | 73.0°F· 22.8°C | 74.0°F· 23.3°C | 75.0°F· 23.9°C | 70.0°F· 21.1°C | 60.0°F· 15.6°C | 50.0°F· 10.0°C | 43.0°F· 6.1°C |
| Rain | 0.85"· 2.16 cm | 0.97"· 2.46 cm | 1.21"· 3.07 cm | 0.75"· 1.91 cm | 1.65"· 4.19 cm | 1.7"· 4.32 cm | 0.61"· 1.55 cm | 0.45"· 1.14 cm | 1.02"· 2.59 cm | 1.23"· 3.12 cm | 0.98"· 2.49 cm | 1.03"· 2.62 cm |
Austin area enjoys generally warm, dry weather which makes these rides particularly enjoyable. The spring and fall can see the highs range from the high 60s to low 80s ºF (16-27ºC), while the lows are generally between 40 and 50ºF (4-10ºC) . We always recommend bringing along riding layers and even a bit of rain gear so you can keep riding comfortably throughout the day. View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know before you go. Once you arrive at your destination, your Trek Travel host will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and give you an overview on the daily route information and detailed maps within the Ride with GPS app. Your host will also review with you the preloaded Garmin GPS computer that allows you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Your Self-Guided trip price is per person based on two guests sharing a room. If you are a solo traveler or if you want to stay in your own private room while traveling with other people, you will have a Single Supplement Fee added to your trip price at the time of booking.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip.
See Self-Guided FAQs
Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.
Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.
Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.
Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.
These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.
On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.
Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.
Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
