As we head into the warmer months of this semester, and ultimately summer, St. Edward’s University students should start discovering the wonderful nature that Austin provides.

Originally from New Orleans, a town not necessarily known for its nature scenes, I must say that I simply marvel at the beauty of Barton Creek Greenbelt. It’s the first place to go to for any nature lover or active person this spring.

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a gem of natural wonder, a part of the river system that flows throughout Austin when the rain supplies enough water.

The greenbelt areas are always free, and you can hike, bike, climb, picnic, swim, kayak, dog walk or just relax at any of the many entrance locations in Austin.

If you are looking to get adventurous, you can hike or kayak the 7.9 miles around the entire Barton Creek Greenbelt in a day-long adventure that ends up at Zilker Park.

Descending into the greenbelt and getting to the river below will sometimes cause adventurers to question if they are still in Austin; it is simply that breathtaking and extraordinary.

Austin Parks and Recreation does a magnificent job keeping the trails clean, as well as biker friendly, so there’s no such thing as a bad greenbelt in Austin. Each is amazing in its own unique way, as the elevations and cliffsides change constantly on the trail.

However, not every greenbelt entrance offers everything described. Some greenbelts are better for hiking, some for swimming and some for climbing.

Also, one should note that it is always good to visit the greenbelt for the first time with a veteran greenbelt explorer. For more information on the greenbelts, visit texasoutside.com/bartoncreekgreenbelt.