The New Year is almost here and if you are like most people, one of your resolutions will be to get more exercise in 2020. Bryson residents never have to worry about that. With 2.5 miles of hiking trails, a resort-style pool and lots of green space, getting plenty of exercise is as easy as walking out the front door. If you don’t live in Bryson (yet), there are still plenty of opportunities nearby.
Hiking
Hiking is great exercise and it’s free, so put on your shoes and get going!
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Located northwest of Austin, the refuge offers rugged terrain, wetlands, deserts and prairies to encounter while hiking. There are two main trail locations: Warbler Vista and Doeskin Ranch.
Located in the Warbler Vista area, this 1-mile loop is a great trail for families, but leave Fido at home because canine companions aren’t allowed.
There’s plenty to do at Williamson Park, including a 3.2-mile walking trail. Warm up on the trail then spend some time on the sports courts. Dogs are welcome.
Want to get some exercise and a great view of Lake Travis? Vista Knoll Loop is a 0.9-mile hike anyone can do. No pets, bikes, or off-trail exploring are allowed.
Hiking A Little Farther Out
Hiking close to home is great but did you know that Bryson is less than 60 miles away from some of the most beautiful state parks and nature preserves in Texas? So, pack your knapsack and plan to spend a day surrounded by nature.
Relax and recharge on the many trails that wind through Pedernales Falls. Trails range from easy to challenging. Favorite trails include the .5-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail and the 6-mile Wolf Mountain Trail, which wraps around Tobacco and Wolf mountains. Take a virtual tour with the Interactive Trails Map.
Take your family out for a day by the blue waters of Inks Lake and then hike Pecan Flats, a self-guided, easy 3.3-mile trail. For those desiring more of challenge, the park has more than 9 miles of hiking trails.
For something a little different, take a walking tour of Longhorn Cavern, an underground wonder created by the dissolving and cutting action of an ancient river. Above-ground hiking trails are also fun to explore.
Beloved by hikers for its rugged beauty, the park offers nearly 9 miles of hike-and-bike trails, including the 2.8-mile hard surface Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail — great for strollers — and the Rock Shelter Trail, which is only for hikers. Take a virtual tour with the Interactive Trails Map.
Hit the Gym
If your preference is state-of-the-art exercise equipment and personal trainers try out these facilities:
Fitness Court at Robin Bledsoe Park
A full-body workout without the gym fees? Yes! With a supporting coach-in-your-pocket mobile app and seven simple bodyweight stations, the Fitness Court is a complete wellness ecosystem — all completely free to use!
You never have to worry about operating hours at this full-service gym because it’s open 24/7. Enjoy state-of-the-art equipment, free weights, exercise classes and more.
Feeling a little body shy? Not at Planet Fitness, which promises a Judgement Free Zone™. Membership is inexpensive offering just what you need without the frills.
Get all the exercise you need in just 30 minutes at Austin’s favorite workout facility. Whether you are looking for 1-on-1 personal training or small group training, the 30-minute High Intensity Resistance Training (“HIRT”) sessions have been scientifically proven to more effectively build lean muscle and burn more fat.
Build your path to fitness at this Cedar Park favorite, including state-of-the-art amenities, a variety of classes tailored to your fitness needs, and personal trainers.
Fitness Classes
There are more ways to get fit than going to the gym. These classes promise fun and fat-burning.
Kickboxing is a great cardio workout and it’s fun, too. It’s also convenient because there are no set class times.
Ready to try something different? Hero Way offers boxing, Krav Maga and Jiu-Jitsu as well as tactical firearms training.
Wake up your body with a few sun salutations then get ready to shop at this yoga studio located at 1890 Ranch.
Leander’s first and only yoga studio offers everything from Mommy and ME classes to Hatha Yoga.
