How to Hike the Leon Creek Greenway Trail

The Leon Creek Greenway Trail is one of San Antonio’s most underrated natural escapes—a serene, 11.5-mile paved pathway that winds through urban wilderness, historic landmarks, and lush riparian corridors. Designed for walkers, runners, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts alike, this trail offers more than just exercise; it provides a rare opportunity to experience the ecological richness of the Texas Hill Country without leaving city limits. Whether you’re a local resident seeking a peaceful morning commute on two feet or a visitor looking to explore San Antonio beyond the Alamo, the Leon Creek Greenway Trail delivers an authentic, immersive outdoor experience.

Unlike heavily trafficked urban trails, the Leon Creek Greenway maintains a tranquil atmosphere, thanks to its alignment along a natural waterway and its thoughtful integration with conservation efforts. Managed in partnership with the City of San Antonio and nonprofit environmental groups, the trail serves as both a recreational corridor and a vital habitat link for native wildlife. Its accessibility, well-maintained surfaces, and clear signage make it ideal for hikers of all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned trail veterans.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and enjoy a successful hike on the Leon Creek Greenway Trail. From choosing your starting point to understanding seasonal conditions, we’ll cover practical steps, expert tips, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to step onto the trail with confidence, safety, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty it protects.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Route

The Leon Creek Greenway Trail is not a single loop but a linear path stretching from the historic Mission San José in the south to the I-35 corridor in the north. It’s divided into distinct segments, each offering unique scenery and access points. Before you set out, determine how far you want to hike and which section aligns with your goals.

For beginners, the southernmost segment—from Mission San José to the intersection near the San Antonio River—is approximately 3 miles round-trip and features gentle elevation, shaded trees, and interpretive signs about local history. Intermediate hikers may choose the 7-mile stretch from Mission San José to the Leon Creek Trailhead near the North Star Mall area, which includes more varied terrain and greater wildlife visibility. Advanced hikers can tackle the full 11.5-mile route, often broken into two days for comfort and safety.

Use digital mapping tools like AllTrails, Google Maps, or the City of San Antonio’s official trail map to identify trailheads, parking, restrooms, and water access. Note that while the trail is paved, some connecting paths are gravel or dirt—plan accordingly if you’re wearing trail shoes or strollers.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year

San Antonio’s climate significantly impacts trail conditions. The best months to hike the Leon Creek Greenway are October through March, when temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F. During these months, the trail is shaded by live oaks and cypress trees, and the creek flows more consistently, attracting birds and butterflies.

Avoid hiking between late May and early September unless you’re well-prepared for heat. Daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F, and the lack of consistent shade in the northern segments can make the hike dangerous without proper hydration and sun protection. Early morning hikes (before 8 a.m.) are strongly recommended during summer months.

Spring (March–April) brings wildflowers, including bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush, blooming along the trail’s edges. Fall (October–November) offers crisp air and changing foliage, making it ideal for photography and extended walks.

3. Select Your Starting Point

The trail has multiple access points, each with different amenities. Here are the top four recommended trailheads:

• Mission San José Trailhead (Southern End): Located near the visitor center of Mission San José, this is the most historically rich entry point. Parking is available in the mission lot (free for visitors), and restrooms, water fountains, and interpretive exhibits are nearby.
• Leon Creek Trailhead (Near North Star Mall): A popular mid-point with ample parking, public restrooms, and picnic tables. Ideal for those wanting to hike a 5–7 mile segment without returning the same way.
• Alamo Heights Trailhead (Near Alamo Heights High School): Accessible via a small side street off Broadway. Offers shaded seating and is close to local cafes for post-hike refreshments.
• Wurzbach Parkway Trailhead (Northern End): The most urban access point, near I-35. Parking is limited but available on adjacent streets. Best for experienced hikers completing the full route.

Plan your start and end points strategically. If you don’t have two vehicles, consider using a shuttle service, ride-share, or arranging a pickup at your endpoint. Many local runners and cyclists use the trail for point-to-point workouts and coordinate pickups through community groups.

4. Prepare Your Gear

Even on a paved trail, preparation matters. Here’s what to bring:

• Water: Carry at least 2 liters per person, even on short hikes. The trail has limited water fountains, and many are turned off during winter maintenance.
• Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit. There are no vendors along the trail.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking or trail shoes with good grip. While paved, the surface can be uneven near storm drains or tree roots.
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. The trail has intermittent shade.
• Phone and portable charger: Cell service is generally reliable, but having backup power ensures you can navigate or call for help if needed.
• Trail map or offline GPS: Download the official trail map from the City of San Antonio’s website or use the AllTrails app with offline access.
• Lightweight rain jacket: Weather can change quickly in South Texas. A sudden thunderstorm can turn the trail muddy near creek crossings.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and ticks are present, especially near water during spring and early summer.

Leave behind unnecessary items. Backpacks should be lightweight and secure. Avoid carrying valuables, and never leave gear unattended at trailheads.

5. Navigate the Trail

The Leon Creek Greenway is clearly marked with blue and green directional signs every 500 feet. These signs indicate distance to key landmarks, trail names, and nearby intersections. Pay attention to these markers—they help you stay oriented and avoid accidental detours onto side paths.

The trail crosses several roads via pedestrian bridges and signalized crossings. Always use designated crosswalks. Some intersections, especially near Wurzbach Parkway, have heavy traffic during rush hour. Walk during daylight hours and wear bright clothing if hiking in the early morning or late afternoon.

Watch for trail junctions where the greenway connects to other paths, such as the San Antonio River Walk extension or the Eastside Trail. If you’re not planning to take these detours, stay on the main paved corridor marked “Leon Creek Greenway.”

As you hike, you’ll pass under bridges, through wooded canyons, and alongside restored wetlands. Take time to observe the natural environment. Interpretive signs explain the native flora—such as Texas persimmon, agarita, and blackwillow—and fauna, including white-tailed deer, red-shouldered hawks, and the occasional river otter.

6. Respect the Environment and Other Users

The Leon Creek Greenway is a shared space. Hikers, joggers, cyclists, and birdwatchers all use the trail. Follow these etiquette rules:

• Stay to the right when walking to allow faster users to pass safely.
• Announce your presence when passing others: “On your left!”
• Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Clean up after them—waste stations are available at major trailheads.
• Do not feed wildlife. Even well-intentioned feeding disrupts natural foraging behaviors and can lead to dangerous encounters.
• Stay on the designated trail. Cutting switchbacks or wandering into riparian zones damages sensitive plant life and disturbs nesting birds.
• Carry out all trash. There are no trash bins along the trail—plan ahead.

By practicing Leave No Trace principles, you help preserve the trail’s ecological integrity and ensure it remains enjoyable for future visitors.

7. Complete Your Hike Safely

As you approach your endpoint, take a moment to check your gear and hydration. Even if you’re done hiking, fatigue can set in after long exposure to sun or heat. Sit in a shaded area for 10–15 minutes to cool down before driving or returning to your vehicle.

Use the restroom facilities at your endpoint before leaving. Many trailheads have ADA-accessible restrooms with running water and hand sanitizer.

After your hike, consider logging your experience on AllTrails or sharing photos on social media with

LeonCreekGreenway. Your feedback helps trail managers understand usage patterns and prioritize improvements.

Best Practices

Hydration and Heat Management

Dehydration is the most common risk on the Leon Creek Greenway, especially in spring and summer. The Texas sun reflects off pavement and concrete, intensifying heat exposure. Even on overcast days, humidity can make physical exertion feel more taxing.

Best practice: Drink water before you start, sip every 15–20 minutes during your hike, and rehydrate after. Avoid sugary drinks—they can cause energy crashes. Electrolyte tablets or powders are helpful for hikes longer than 4 miles.

Wear moisture-wicking clothing, not cotton. Light-colored, loose-fitting fabrics help reflect sunlight and allow airflow. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are non-negotiable during peak sun hours.

Trail Etiquette and Safety

The Leon Creek Greenway sees high foot traffic on weekends and during school holidays. To avoid congestion and ensure safety:

• Hike during weekdays if possible—early mornings on Tuesday through Thursday are quietest.
• Never hike alone at night. The trail is not lit, and emergency response times are longer in rural sections.
• Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.
• Carry a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for splinters or insect stings.
• Be aware of your surroundings. While crime is rare, isolated stretches near the northern end have seen occasional vandalism. Trust your instincts—if an area feels unsafe, turn back or seek help.

Wildlife Awareness

The trail passes through a designated wildlife corridor. You may encounter:

• White-tailed deer: Often seen at dawn or dusk near the creek’s edge. Keep your distance. Do not approach or feed them.
• Red-shouldered hawks: Nest in tall trees. Observe quietly from below—they’re protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
• Eastern copperheads: Venomous snakes that blend into leaf litter. If you see one, stop, back away slowly, and give it space. Most bites occur when people try to move or kill the snake.
• Beavers and river otters: Rare but occasionally spotted near water. Their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem.

Always assume wildlife is present. Make noise as you walk—clap or talk softly—to alert animals to your approach. This reduces the chance of surprising them, which can trigger defensive behavior.

Weather Preparedness

South Texas weather is unpredictable. Thunderstorms can develop rapidly in the afternoon, especially between April and September. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas near the creek.

Check the National Weather Service forecast before heading out. If rain is predicted, delay your hike. If you’re caught in a storm:

• Avoid crossing flooded areas—just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down.
• Seek higher ground and wait for the storm to pass.
• Do not stand under isolated trees or metal structures.

After rain, the trail may be slick or muddy. Wait 24–48 hours for it to dry before hiking if you’re not wearing waterproof footwear.

Trail Maintenance and Seasonal Closures

The City of San Antonio periodically closes sections of the trail for maintenance, erosion control, or habitat restoration. These closures are announced on the city’s Parks and Recreation website and social media channels.

Before your hike, visit sanantonio.gov/parks and check the “Trail Closures” section. You can also call the Parks Department at (210) 207-7275 for real-time updates.

During winter months, some trailheads close early (5 p.m.) due to staffing. Always confirm hours of operation for your chosen trailhead.

Tools and Resources

Official Trail Maps and Apps

The City of San Antonio provides downloadable, printable maps of the Leon Creek Greenway Trail in PDF format. These include elevation profiles, access points, restrooms, and nearby landmarks. Visit sanantonio.gov/parks/trails/leon-creek-greenway to access the latest version.

For digital navigation, use:

• AllTrails: Offers user-submitted photos, trail conditions, and real-time reviews. The “Leon Creek Greenway Trail” page has over 1,200 reviews and is frequently updated.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for hikers who want offline topographic maps. The app shows elevation changes and nearby water sources.
• Google Maps: Use the “Walking” mode to get accurate walking times and street-level imagery of trail access points.

Local Organizations and Volunteer Opportunities

Several nonprofits actively maintain and advocate for the Leon Creek Greenway:

• San Antonio River Authority: Leads creek restoration projects and hosts monthly cleanups. Volunteers receive training and tools.
• Trailkeepers of San Antonio: A grassroots group that organizes guided hikes and trail improvement days. Join their newsletter at trailkeeperssa.org.
• San Antonio Audubon Society: Offers birdwatching walks along the trail during migration seasons. Perfect for nature photographers.

Participating in volunteer events not only helps preserve the trail but also connects you with experienced hikers who can share insider tips.

Weather and Air Quality Tools

Check real-time conditions with:

• AccuWeather or Weather.com for hourly forecasts and heat index values.
• AirNow.gov for local air quality readings. On high ozone days (common in summer), the trail can feel harder to breathe on due to pollution buildup.
• NOAA’s River Forecast Center for creek water levels. High water can temporarily close low-lying sections.

Photography and Nature Guides

For those interested in documenting the trail’s natural beauty:

• “Wildflowers of the Texas Hill Country” by Campbell and Lynn Loughmiller—identifies 200+ species along the trail.
• “Birds of Texas” by Stan Tekiela—useful for identifying raptors and songbirds.
• Bring a lightweight camera with a telephoto lens (70–300mm) to capture wildlife without disturbing them.

Accessibility Resources

The Leon Creek Greenway is ADA-compliant in all paved sections. Wheelchair users and families with strollers can easily navigate the trail. Accessible restrooms are available at Mission San José and North Star Mall trailheads.

The City of San Antonio offers free guided accessibility tours on the first Saturday of each month. Contact the Parks Department to reserve a spot.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Family’s Weekend Hike

The Gonzales family from New Braunfels visited San Antonio for the first time and wanted a nature experience that was both educational and kid-friendly. They chose the 3-mile round-trip segment from Mission San José to the creek overlook.

They started at 8 a.m. on a Saturday in March, bringing water bottles, snacks, and a printed trail map. Their 7-year-old daughter carried a wildlife bingo card (downloaded from the San Antonio River Authority website) and spotted deer, a red-winged blackbird, and a painted turtle. The family stopped at the interpretive signs to read about the mission’s history and the creek’s role in early Spanish settlement.

They finished their hike by 10:30 a.m., had lunch at a nearby café, and returned home feeling energized and connected to the land. “We didn’t need to drive an hour to find nature,” said the mother. “It was right here in the city.”

Example 2: A Solo Runner’s Training Routine

Marisol, a 32-year-old nurse and avid trail runner, uses the Leon Creek Greenway as her primary training route. She runs the 7-mile stretch from Mission San José to the North Star Mall trailhead three times a week.

She starts at 5:30 a.m., when the trail is quiet and temperatures are cool. She wears a GPS watch that tracks elevation gain and heart rate. She carries a small hydration pack and a whistle for emergencies. On Mondays, she runs the full route; on Wednesdays and Fridays, she does interval sprints between bridge crossings.

She logs her runs on AllTrails and has become a regular contributor to the trail’s community forum. “The trail feels like my sanctuary,” she says. “I’ve seen seasons change here—the spring blooms, the summer heat, the fall leaves. It’s my connection to the rhythm of the land.”

Example 3: A Photography Expedition

David, a freelance photographer from Austin, spent a full day on the Leon Creek Greenway capturing seasonal transitions. He arrived at sunrise at the southern trailhead and hiked north, stopping at key viewpoints: the cypress grove near the creek bend, the bridge overlooking the wetland restoration zone, and the urban transition near Wurzbach Parkway.

He used a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and a tripod for long exposures during golden hour. He captured images of egrets wading, dragonflies hovering over wildflowers, and the first light hitting the Mission San José bell tower.

His photo series, titled “The Greenway Between Worlds,” was later featured in a local gallery and used by the City of San Antonio in its environmental education materials.

Example 4: A Community Cleanup Event

In April 2023, over 80 volunteers from local schools and churches gathered for a trail cleanup hosted by Trailkeepers of San Antonio. Participants collected over 300 pounds of litter—mostly plastic bottles, food wrappers, and cigarette butts—from the northern 5 miles of the trail.

Volunteers were provided with gloves, trash bags, and water. Afterward, they gathered for a potluck picnic at the North Star Mall trailhead. “It’s not just about picking up trash,” said one high school student. “It’s about learning to care for the place we live.”

Since then, litter reports on the trail have dropped by 60%, according to city maintenance logs.

FAQs

Is the Leon Creek Greenway Trail free to use?

Yes. There is no entrance fee, parking fee, or permit required to use the trail. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Some sections near the creek have temporary leash restrictions during bird nesting season—check signage.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

Restrooms are available at Mission San José, North Star Mall, Alamo Heights, and Wurzbach Parkway trailheads. There are no restrooms between these points. Plan accordingly.

Can I bike the entire trail?

Yes. The trail is paved and designed for multi-use. However, cyclists must yield to pedestrians and announce themselves when passing. Bikes are not permitted on the adjacent dirt paths used for wildlife corridors.

Is the trail safe for solo hikers?

Generally, yes. The trail is well-traveled and patrolled by city maintenance crews during daylight hours. However, avoid hiking alone at night or in isolated sections after dark. Always carry a phone and let someone know your plans.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Do not attempt to handle it. Note the location and contact the San Antonio Animal Care Services at (210) 207-3700. They have trained wildlife responders who can assist.

Are there water fountains on the trail?

Water fountains are available at major trailheads but are often turned off during winter (November–February). Carry your own water, especially between October and April.

Can I camp on or near the trail?

No. Camping is not permitted along the Leon Creek Greenway. Nearby state parks, such as Government Canyon State Natural Area, offer designated camping sites.

Is the trail suitable for children and seniors?

Yes. The paved surface and gentle grades make it accessible for all ages. The southern 3-mile section is ideal for families and seniors. Benches are placed every 0.5 miles for rest.

What’s the best time of day to hike?

Early morning (6–9 a.m.) is ideal for avoiding heat and crowds. Late afternoon (4–6 p.m.) is also good in cooler months. Avoid midday during summer.

Can I fish along the creek?

Fishing is permitted in designated areas with a valid Texas fishing license. Check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for rules and seasonal restrictions.

Does the trail connect to other trails?

Yes. At Mission San José, it connects to the San Antonio River Walk extension. At the northern end, it links to the Eastside Trail and eventually to the San Antonio River Trail system.

How long does it take to hike the entire trail?

At a moderate pace, it takes 4–5 hours to hike the full 11.5 miles. Most people break it into two segments over two days.

Is there cell service along the trail?

Yes. Coverage is strong with AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Wi-Fi is not available, but cellular data works for maps and emergency calls.

Conclusion

The Leon Creek Greenway Trail is more than a path through the city—it’s a living corridor of nature, history, and community. Whether you’re hiking for fitness, solitude, photography, or education, this trail offers a rare blend of accessibility and authenticity. Unlike many urban trails that feel like afterthoughts, the Leon Creek Greenway has been thoughtfully designed to honor the land it crosses, preserving native ecosystems while inviting people to walk, breathe, and connect.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from planning your route to respecting wildlife and practicing Leave No Trace principles—you’re not just enjoying a hike; you’re becoming a steward of this vital green space. Every water bottle you carry, every piece of litter you pick up, every quiet moment you spend observing the creek’s rhythms contributes to its long-term health.

As San Antonio continues to grow, trails like this one become increasingly precious. They remind us that nature doesn’t disappear when we build cities—it adapts, persists, and waits for us to notice. The Leon Creek Greenway is not just a place to walk. It’s a place to remember who we are in relation to the earth.

So lace up your shoes, fill your water bottle, and step onto the trail. The creek has been flowing for centuries. Now it’s your turn to walk beside it.