In a world that often seems intent on rushing past, it is a rare pleasure to find a place where time seems to pause, allowing one to drink in the beauty of their surroundings. Such a place exists in Austin, in the form of the Pennybacker Bridge Overlook, a vantage point that offers breathtaking views of the iconic 360 Bridge. This architectural marvel, gracefully spanning the waters of the Colorado River, is more than just a means of traversing the waterway. It is a symbol of unity, a testament to the power of human ingenuity, and a gentle reminder that we can accomplish great feats when we join forces. As you approach the overlook, you are greeted by the sight of the bridge's sweeping arches, framed by the lush, rolling hills that encircle it. The verdant landscape seems to embrace the structure, as if nature herself were cradling this man-made wonder in her loving arms. Standing atop the Pennybacker Bridge Overlook, one cannot help but feel a sense of awe and reverence, as the panoramic vistas stretch out before them. The serene waters of the Colorado River meander below, reflecting the azure sky overhead, while the gentle hum of the city fades into a distant murmur. It is a place where the elements converge, with the earth and water below, the sky above, and the wind whispering through the trees, carrying with it the secrets of the ages. As the sun sets, casting its golden rays upon the scene, the bridge seems to glow with an ethereal light, transforming the landscape into something almost otherworldly. The Pennybacker Bridge Overlook is more than just a viewpoint; it is a sanctuary, a place where one can find respite from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. It is a reminder that, amidst the constant ebb and flow of time, there are still moments when we can simply stand still and marvel at the wonders around us. In conclusion, if you find yourself in Austin, I urge you to make the journey to the Pennybacker Bridge Overlook. It is a place where the majesty of nature and the brilliance of human innovation come together, creating an experience that will resonate in your heart and soul long after you have left.

What a place to visit during sunset hours!! Was here in Austin for a few days and this was the most recommended place to see sunset by my friends. To get there: Navigate to the start of the bridge while driving towards Austin to find a small turn out where you’d see plenty of cars parked diagonally next to each other. Park there and be ready for a quick climb on a few steep rocky trail which should be easy for most but can be manageable with help for people who suffer leg pain/knee problems. When you reach the top you’re blessed with an amazing view which you can see from 3-4 different spots (navigate more towards the right as most people stay central and it gets crowded). Parking Spots are few so plan ahead and reach well in time to avoid waiting and missing out on the sunset. I found no information about dogs but plenty of dogs climbed up leashed throughout; with or without help :) People please take the trash back down and dispose it in the bins!! Saw a lot of plastic bottles and disposable boxes thrown away up top. Once you’re there just sit down and enjoy the surreal views that Austin has for us all :) Small Update: one of my friend’s friend got her car broken into and all her personal belongings stolen from the parking area!! Please please please nobody get your personal stuff and important docs to that area and if you do carry it along with you then protect it like there’s no tomorrow. DO NOT LEAVE ANYTHING IN THE CAR!!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Starting with the location, kind of a weird place on the side of the road - but after maybe a 1-2 minute hike up/walk depending on which route you take, you get to the view - also going to state there is another mountain to the left of it and it’s not worth going, just go to this one. There were maybe 30-40 people up there when I went all taking pictures - so it’s not too easy to get them your own. The view shows off an amazing piece of infrastructure, the bride. And the mountain to the left I previously mentioned, and the hidden jewel is to the right side from the journey up. A beautiful view of the water - there’s also a tree with graffiti on it (the mountains also has some on it but it’s still okay) and that’s the best part. This is definitely worth your time in Texas. I put lots of pictures below to give you something to expect.

One of the best scenic spots in Austin highly recommend. Perfect mix of open sunny areas & cooler shaded areas. Quick steep hike to the top only couple of minutes then a good long trail wraps around the cliff, bring lots of water. Unfortunately it looks a little ghetto in some places because people are spray painting on rocks & trees & ruining the scenery. Be very careful dangerous cliff don't take any chances, a guy was sitting right on edge & freaking me out, always better to be safe than sorry, only takes 1 little slip to tumble & fall off the edge, I think there have been a few fatalities at this park use extreme caution protect your life. Please be sure not to leave any garbage behind take everything with you or don't bring it into park at all, picked up lots of cups & bottles & cans.

A really pretty spot, and a nice short walk! The only downfalls are the amount of litter near the front of the area, which is really quite sad, and the parking is a little precarious. Parking is along the side of the road and I’d just be careful with kids and pets. The climb up to the overlook is a little steep but not excessively so. Following the trails farther alongside the river leads to a really great scaffolding lookout. The trail is less than a mile from start to finish, just under 2 miles to the end and back, and ends at a chain link fence. It was an easy walk with my dog, and early in the morning it was basically empty, but was getting busy when we left around 9:30am.

The hike to the lookout wasn't bad. There are numerous ways to reach the top. If climbing rocks isn't your thing, facing the direction of the rock steps, off to the right is a path that's an easier climb. My overall experience was rather eerie. There's no railing, no patrolling or park ranger. It's a road side stop. I didn't feel safe and didn't stay but a few minutes. Long enough to hike the short trail to the top, snap some pics and get back in my vehicle to leave. It was a pretty view but I've see better. Probably won't be back. One of those things to do so I can say been there, done that & checked it off a list.

Such a cool spot with a great overlook of the bridge and town lake. Unfortunately, the trash and graffiti are super prevalent, which is sad so a cleanup should be scheduled . It's a very short, moderate level hike with some steep steps, so not an easy trail necessarily but pretty good. Good mobility is required to get up to the overlook though. The main entrance hugs the road and ascends not more than an 1/8 of a mile to the overlook. Beware with little ones or pets off the leash though, there is no fence and some overhangs are substantial, you never know!

One of the best places to watch the sunset in Austin. You need to do a short 10-minute hike to reach the overlook top on a rocky steep road. From the overlook, you can enjoy Austin's dazzling skyline, the scenic Colorado River, Lake Austin, and the picturesque hill country panorama. There is no definite parking lot. There is a turnout on the west side of the road, north of the bridge where you can park. But it gets packed during the sunset.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Price for adult entry
Free

What a beautiful spot in Austin and well worth it. Takes about 5-10 mins to reach the top. Highly recommend. It’s a rather steep climb but once you are there you’ll be in heaven. I didn’t have the time but think there are quite a few hiking trails beyond reaching the top. This might not be for you if you aren’t steady on your feet and if your scared of heights you may want to stay away from the edges. If you fall then kiss your a** goodbye. It’s really sad that people leave their trash along the way, though.

Good view over the Colorado river, Pennybacker Bridge, 360 loop and also you can see some downtown skyline at a long distance. It would have been much easier for anyone if there would have been steps or a proper way to go up at the point. While viewing the Pennybacker Bridge it looks so rusty. New color would definitely improve the whole sight as well as the life of the bridge.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very lovely place. I have an eight and seven year old and we hiked up the hill. Very easy walk and the reward was great. Views were incredible! You could see the River, the boats on the water and a very picturesque view of downtown Austin. It’s a must see attraction for every visitor. Parking is located nearby. It says not to park but you can totally park. Everyone does it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

So this view is 5 stars, but truly I was worried about my car the whole time because of the other reviews. Lots of glass in the parking lot, nothing happened and I made sure to take everything out of my care before going. Just be aware. The hike is only 5 minutes up some rocks, but there are other pathways that are somewhat easier to walk up, wear proper shoes. Went during sunset with my dog and it did get busy but like I said there are other areas to walk towards to view it peacefully.

Be wary of the feeling of Wanderlust that you get from ascending these cliffs. A hidden gem in the core of Austin, you get a refreshing take on cliffside views. The beautiful river gives the off vibrant hues of blue and the serene tranquility that sets when you gaze out into the vastness of city. Amazing short trails come packed alongside this span of architecturalization of nature.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait

This is truly a must see if you visit Austin. Located less than a 10 minute walk from the parking spot you'll find this place with astonishing views of the valley. The parking was a bit challenging as technically cars aren't supposed to park at this spot but yet all the tourists do it. If you do come please take the trash with you as I did see litter. Other than that this is really a great place with spectacular views

The "hike" is short to get to the top, but the view is great. The bridge, river, and sunset are scenic. Iconic place that is enjoyable. There's no railing in case you're taking a little kid with you. You can hike up the large rocks or take well established single-track side trails. The trail continues through a gated area, but I've never been or desired to explore it. The first several sit-and-view spaces are enough.

Amazing hike!!! I love hiking and this trail did not disappoint. I would consider the hike moderate because of the steepness, changes in terrain, and many trees that you have to cross over. The higher you go, the more fallen trees you encounter. The view of the Colorado River is gorgeous. I would hike this trail again. It is listed as a half-mile hike, but you can go farther than a half-mile, just be careful.

Quick but steep walk will get you to this gorgeous view. Weekends and sunset are the busiest times. There is no parking lot, folks park off of 360. There are 2 ways up, rock steep “stairs” and a trail. Both will lead you up to the same place. If you want it all to yourself go at sunrise!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Amazing view point. Worth the visit and the risk of getting towed! There is not official parking. You park off the road and there "No Parking" signs, but you can maybe debate there is a section without the signs. It takes 5 minutes to go up max for healthy people. Another 5 minutes to take photos and come down. To enjoy, I would need to make sure that parking is no issue.

PLEASE be careful. Lots of busted windows here because people watch you to see if you’ll leave a bag IN YOUR CAR. It doesn’t even need to have money, it can have makeup and they’ll still break your windows. I had my wallet and keys in a bag under the seat and they broke into the car. It’s very common and you can see all the broken glass pieces in the parking spaces.

People typically spends 20-30 minutes in this place, parking space is available on side of the road & free, Need to walk few minutes which is a bit difficult to elders but very easy to climb to the overlook view. Best time to visit is Sunset, we had a beautiful experience wind on face with a sunset view….! Worth climbing here, Be Careful while heading back…!

This place is one of my favorite spots on Austin! The view is awesome and you can take wonderful pictures … I love to go when is the sunset time, but is a busy time due everyone wants pictures with the sunset… you just need to park on the side of the way and start to climb a small way and then you see the most beautiful view!

Nice place. Beautiful views especially during dusk and dawn. Can get a bit crowded during weekends. Weekdays is the best time to visit. You might find some trash around the place. Despite having a trash can before entering the place it is sad to see people leaving trash nearby. Overall great place and has some good trails.

It’s kind a hard to find this place because there is no specific parking I could find. Had to stop just beside the road and each to the top with no designated signs. The views are fantastic definitely recommend this place.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

There is a very short trial to the edge of cliff from where you can watch the bridge, boats underneath, and a nice overview of the city. People park on the side of the road.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Great lookout ! Certain areas can be a bit of a climb for short legs (little ones) and a little difficult for the older legs (young at heart) but once at the top its pretty amazing views for sure.Its not that long of a hike either. Def worth it...but NOT an area for unsupervised children...

Breathtaking view of Colorado river , Austin county golf club, highway 360 and main reason steel Bridge. Wear comfortable shoes, you need some climbing ‍♀️, parking is in the side of highway.Bridge make it a picture perfect location for photo for a very good memory for many years. …

The first time I went here I could not find it despite passing it couple times. There is no parking and people just line up on the shoulder. The climb is best done with shoes. The view is spectacular.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very Short hike, young kids can do it with parents help. We had two 5 year old made it up to the viewpoint within 10 minutes. Parking is just off the side of the road. Lots and lots of people.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very nice place to visit. The hill tops is the best place to watch the view. There is a trail over the top of the hill which goes in farther inside. There is no lighting on the bridge at night now so you can barely see the view from the top after sunset.

Beautiful short hike bur my car was vandalized in the parking area. They broke my car window and stole a purse and luggage we had.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

My wife and I ventured up on this Overlook on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. It affords dramatic views of Lake Austin, the Pennybacker Bridge, and the skyline of the city in the distance and the hills. Well worth the effort to clamber up to

Beautiful! It’s a quick 5 min hike to the top. The entrance is kinda hidden, but there is a parking sign and a trash can beside it, marking how to get in. There are other trails you can access to go for longer hikes. We went during sunrise

One of the best places in the area & also in state of Texas. The view is amazing. You can make a bunch of memories with this place. Try to reach here when the sun is rising or on the top of your head(If you want to take best pictures). If

This is one of my favorite and easy sights to see in Austin. Be careful with children as there are loose rocks and high cliffs. I plan on returning sometime in the near future to hike the other side of the road. And to get more pictures!!

A must-see beautiful bridge above the Lake Austin. Easy hike to the top. Awesome scene around. I really enjoyed the view. The bridge connects Northern and Southwestern sections of loop 360 highway or capital of Texas highway.

Nice view point to look at the Colorado river, the bridge and the golf course. Good for clicking pictures.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very short hike to a ridge overlooking the bridge and the golf course where the pga championship is held.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The view is unbelievable. Need to hike a little bit. Not recommended for old, disabled and kids.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Fun, easy to hike urban jewel hidden in plan sight. Obviously, you're hiking on undeveloped terrain, so use caution. Would recommend for anyone in north Austin looking for a dynamic overlook with little exercise.

One of the best sunset views in Austin! You have to hike up so not suitable for everyone.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very pretty, short but somewhat challenging hike. It's just steep with minor climbing if you're vertically challenged like myself. Should be manageable for anyone that doesn't have difficulty walking.

Amazing views, but better to go at an off time unless you're willing to park quite a bit away. Definitely recommend going up just before sunrise and watching the sun come up. Absolutely gorgeous.

Went with my lovely lady, during a weeknight, and it was great. Awesome view and hardly any people this last time I went.. enjoyed the "intermediate " hike, and Awesome view during the sunset...

Really lovely views of the lake/River and a great spot to hike up to.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

What a beautiful place to just chill and watch sunset
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Parking on the side of road, moderately easy and short hike. View from top is gorgeous.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

We can see pennybacker bridge view with Colorado river from height, there is a rough trail to reach on height and getting a best photo session with this bridge background.

This view of lake Travis and 360 bridge is surreal. Please wear shoes if you want to enjoy the view with small hike which is steep enough. Lot of parking spots to park.

Nice view. You can enjoy nature. Be careful while parking.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

One of the best places in Austin to watch the sunrise or sunset. Plenty of secluded spots and a long trail, it's my new favorite place!

Great place for a beautiful view! Has a nice walking trail when you are at the too leading down gradiently for multiple fitness levels!

Awesome! Beautiful I LOVE IT ☺️
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A scenic place worth visiting, you can see wonderful sunset at the river side and there is a small nature trail as well

The view is awesome, the hike is really nothing but I was wearing the wrong shoes, so it was my fault . …

Amazing views. Wear the right shoes to do some light hiking. It was so good.
Visited on
Weekday

Fantastic place to watch sunset and moon rise... These pics were taken during the recent Supermoon !

Gorgeous views of Austin especially in the nice weather
Wait time
No wa…
More

So beautiful! Such a great place for a great view and photos!

Nice view and not far from the city of Austin.

Beautiful. Good walk, not too hard a hike.