Searching for bike trails in San Antonio? There is no better way to see the Alamo City than by bicycle. You’ll have the chance to visit historical sights up close and personal, not to mention at your own pace. Remember, while biking, it’s important to observe the same traffic regulations as motor vehicles. Always put safety first, and be sure to use hand signals for turns, wear a helmet, and break for pedestrians. On those hot San Antonio days, take water, sunscreen and lock up your bike when parking. Now that that’s out of the way, it’s time for your to hit the road on two wheels! Below are some of the best bike trails in San Antonio—along with a few bike paths through Downtown.
Bike Trails in San Antonio
The following lists the sights and sounds you may see along your ride:
Alamo HemisFair – 1.7 mile ride
Starting at the Alamo, you’ll see some of San Antonio’s best-known landmarks on this quick ride around Downtown. You’ll first travel west on Houston St., before passing the Buckhorn Saloon/Texas Rangers Museum, the San Antonio Children’s Museum, and the Majestic and Empire Theatres. On the west side of Main Plaza, you’ll see the oldest Roman Catholic sanctuary in the U.S., San Fernando Cathedral. Continue on to see Bexar County Courthouse, which occupies the southern end of Main Plaza. Finish your ride heading north, past the Torch of Friendship and Rivercenter Mall.
Brackenride Park – 6.9 mile ride
Begin your ride at the Main Plaza, a historic community gathering center in front of San Fernando Cathedral. Head north to St. Mary’s St., which will lead you straight to the 344-acre Brackenridge Park. Brackenridge Park is home to one of the most popular bike trails in San Antonio. You’ll see an old rock quarry, a Civil War-era tannery, and a waterworks. Brackenridge is also home to Brackenridge Park Golf Course, the Brackenridge Eagle miniature train, the San Antonio Zoo, the Japanese Tea Gardens, and the Sunken Garden Theater. You’ll also notice jogging trails, public art, playground, pavilions, and athletic fields.
Pearl Brewery – 3.2 mile ride
Pearl Brewery is a mixed-use development that includes restaurants and shopping, along with commercial and residential spaces. The Culinary Institute of America is also located at Pearl Brewery. The brewery, built in 1883, is the perfect place to see the beautiful sights of the River Walk. Start your ride at the Main Plaza, then head downtown to St. Mary’s St. From there, ride along Josephine St. to the Pearl.
King William – 3.6 mile ride
A slow ride through the King William Historic District is bound to make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. With mansions built by some of the cities most prominent architects in the late 1800’s, you’ll see a variety of architectural styles. Check out the Guenther House, a museum and restaurant that used to be home to the founder of Pioneer Flour Mills. You’ll also pass by Steves Homestead Museum, Villa Finale, and the Commander’s House Park.
Mission Trail – 20 mile ride
For the extreme bike rider, there’s no better bike trail in San Antonio than Mission Trail. A 20 mile ride, bikers will enjoy this route as it passes four Spanish Colonial missions along the San Antonio River. Be sure to keep an eye out for new trail segments and connections to Mission Trail, which are currently undergoing renovations. As you ride, look for signs pointing the way along Mission Trail. Each mission is open to the public and all are part of the National Park system.
For more information and to find out about additional bike trails in San Antonio, visit the City of San Antonio “Maps and Trails” page. Don’t forget to check out 10 Ways to Get Active in San Antonio.
Information courtesy of SanAntonio.gov.