McKinney Falls State Park in Austin, Texas, is a popular destination for runners seeking a scenic and challenging outdoor experience. With a variety of trails, this state park offers something for runners of all skill levels, from beginner to experienced. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of running in McKinney Falls State Park, covering the longest trail, the trail with the most elevation gain, and the rating of the Homestead Trail.
The Longest Running Trail: Onion Creek and Homestead Trail Loop
The longest running trail in McKinney Falls State Park is the Onion Creek and Homestead Trail Loop, which covers a distance of approximately 10.9 kilometers (6.8 miles). This loop trail takes runners through a diverse landscape, including lush forests, rocky outcroppings, and the scenic Onion Creek. The trail is considered an intermediate level, making it suitable for runners with some experience.
The Trail with the Most Elevation Gain: Onion Creek and Homestead Trail Loop
If you’re looking for a challenging run with significant elevation gain, the Onion Creek and Homestead Trail Loop is the trail for you. This loop features a total ascent of 118 meters (387 feet), making it the trail with the most elevation gain in McKinney Falls State Park. The rolling hills and rocky terrain provide a demanding workout for runners seeking to push their limits.
The Homestead Trail: A Highly Rated Running Experience
The Homestead Trail is one of the most popular trails for running in McKinney Falls State Park, with a 4.4-star rating from 1,434 reviews on AllTrails.com. This trail offers a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, allowing runners to experience a variety of terrain. The Homestead Trail is considered an intermediate level, making it suitable for runners with some experience navigating technical trails.
Events and Activities
McKinney Falls State Park hosts several running-related events throughout the year, providing opportunities for runners to connect with the community and challenge themselves.
Friends of McKinney Falls Fun Run
The annual Friends of McKinney Falls Fun Run takes place on January 1, 2024. This event includes a 2.8-mile paved trail run or walk, with an optional unpaved extension for a full 5K. The event supports trail improvements and other park activities, making it a great way to give back to the community.
Austin Falls Ultra
The Austin Falls Ultra is a popular event that takes place on April 27, 2024. This race offers various distances, including 5K, 10K, 20K, 30K, and 50K, catering to runners of all abilities. The event features technical trails, rolling hills, and a post-race celebration, making it a must-attend for trail running enthusiasts.
Trail Details
Here are some additional details about the popular running trails in McKinney Falls State Park:
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead and Onion Creek Trails Loop | Intermediate | 7.12 miles | 1 hour 17 minutes |
| McKinney Upper Falls – McKinney Lower Falls | Intermediate | 5.86 miles | 1 hour 4 minutes |
Park Information
- Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, USA
- Phone Number: Not provided
- Hours and Cost: Not provided
McKinney Falls State Park offers a diverse and challenging running experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or just starting your running journey, this park has something to offer. From the longest running trail to the trail with the most elevation gain, and the highly rated Homestead Trail, McKinney Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for runners seeking an unforgettable adventure.
References
- https://www.mckinneyfalls.org/funrun.html
- https://www.letsdothis.com/us/e/austin-falls-ultra-198203
- https://www.komoot.com/guide/3391561/running-trails-in-mckinney-falls-state-park
- https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/texas/mckinney-falls-state-park/trail-running
- https://www.trailrunproject.com/directory/8010462/mckinney-falls-state-park