Last updated: October 20, 2020
Thing to Do
Hike & Bike Along the River
NPS Photo
Winding alongside the San Antonio River through historic neighborhoods and farmlands, the Hike & Bike Trail provides respite from the daily grind of city life. Dedicated paved pathways that connect the missions along the river are reserved for pedestrians only. The Hike & Bike Trail is an easy walk or ride and is suitable for even children.
This trail connects all five missions in San Antonio: The Alamo, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. Each mission is about 2.5 miles from the next. This is a safe and fun way to visit the missions. Take a look at the river map before you start your adventure. The hike and bike path is a great way to see the missions, enjoy the outdoors, and watch wildlife. Common wildlife you can see include: egrets, red-eared sliders, cormorants, osprey, prickly pear cacti, pecan trees, and much more!
If you are planning on hitting the trail, always bring adequate supplies and water. Summer months can be extremely hot in San Antonio and not much of the Hike & Bike Trail is shaded, so you should always carry water.
The Hike & Bike Trail is not a loop. It is an out-and-back. Plan on hiking or biking the trek back, or catch one of the VIVA buses back. Take on the whole trail or just do one segment, from one mission to the next.
Details
Duration
15-240 Minutes
The length of your excursion is up to you! Many visitors make a three mile trip between two of their favorite missions. Hop onto the trail for a quick 15 minute walk to observe the birds, or spend a few hours exploring the entire river reach.
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
Hike or bike along the San Antonio River Hike & Bike trail. Each mission is about 3 miles from the next on this scenic paved trail. Choose to trek from one mission to another for a short adventure. Complete the entire ~12 mile journey for a longer excursion.
To bike the trail, bring your own bike or rent a bike at one of the San Antonio Bike Share stations at each mission site.
Common plant and animal species observed along the trail include prickly pear cacti, red-eared slider turtles, common musk turtles, bull snake, rat snake, garter snake, agarita berry, pecan tree, egrets, mockingbirds, and much more!
To bike the trail, bring your own bike or rent a bike at one of the San Antonio Bike Share stations at each mission site.
Common plant and animal species observed along the trail include prickly pear cacti, red-eared slider turtles, common musk turtles, bull snake, rat snake, garter snake, agarita berry, pecan tree, egrets, mockingbirds, and much more!
Age(s)
This trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels. The grade is relatively flat and the trail is paved. If you plan on renting a bicycle, please read all safety and age requirements on the San Antonio Bike Share docking stations before beginning your journey.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets must be kept on a leash which is 6 ft or under in length. Pet owners must clean up after their pets. There are trash receptacles located at several points along the trail for your convenience.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Hike and Bike Trail along the San Antonio River
The San Antonio River Hike & Bike Trail follows the San Antonio River through the southside of San Antonio, from the River Walk to Mission Espada. Viewpoints on the trail include Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, the Espada Aqueduct, the San Juan Dam, Mission San Juan, Arbol de la Vida, and Mission Espada.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
This trail is open and accessible all year long. No matter what season it is, always remember to bring plenty of water and protection from the sun.
Time of Day
Day
The Hike & Bike Trail is open sunrise to sunset every day.
Accessibility Information
Entire trail is paved. Ramped access points are available. Water fouintains and restrooms are located along the trail. Accessible public buses are available at multiple points along the trail.