Overview
Barton Creek rises more than 21 miles to the west, near Dripping Springs, on its meandering path to its confluence with the Colorado River at Zilker Park in South Austin. Arising out of the Edwards Aquifer, Barton creek is crystal clear and aquamarine in color. Do not trespass.
Quick Info
| Length | 21 miles with shorter options |
| Class (I-VI) | II-IV |
| Minimum Flow | 250 cfs |
| Ideal Flow | 400-2,500 cfs |
| Maximum Flow | 3,500 cfs |
| Current River Conditions | SH-71 Oak Hill USGS; Barton Springs at Austin USGS |
| Put-in maps | |
| Take-out maps | |
| Boats | Canoes, kayaks |
| Season | Dependent on heavy local rainfall |
| Highlight | Exciting whitewater after a good rain |
Recreation and Access
Beginning at SH-71, Barton Creek is navigable to Zilker Park above the swimming pool. Above Zilker Park the creek is a whitewater run up to Class III-IV, usually runnable only after local heavy rains. The whitewater run includes short drops, low-head dams, standing waves, ledges and play spots with surfing waves. Mark Miller’s Facebook Barton Creek.
Featured Runs
- Barton Creek [x miles]
Conservation and Threats
Rapid growth and urbanization throughout Travis County is pushing higher quantities of water and sediment into the Barton Creek watershed through increased impervious cover and disturbed surfaces. Excessive amounts of dirt often wash into the river from landscapes that have recently lost their native vegetation and natural cover. Point-source pollution may be entering the Colorado where chemical spills, sewage leaks, and other accidents occur. Non-point source pollution is taking place where pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides are washing off yards and fields into the creeks that feed the river. The Edwards Aquifer is one of the most productive and consequential aquifers in Texas, serving as the primary drinking water source for over 2 million people in Central/South Texas Hill Country, including the City of San Antonio. The Edwards Aquifer also replenishes critical springs (e.g., Barton Springs) that provide habitat for several threatened and endangered species, including the Barton Springs Salamander (Eurycea sosorum).
Natural Features
Fishing
Fly fishers and rod & reel fishers frequent Barton Creek at low to medium water levels. Common fish caught there include, Largemouth bass, Bluegill and Longear Sunfishes, Rio Brande Cichlid and Flathead catfish.