Medina River Greenway - beautiful river in the forest
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Medina River Greenway

4.2
·5 reviews·San Antonio, United States

A rural, less-crowded greenway trail offering stunning spring wildflowers, river views, and birdwatching opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in full bloom

CrowdLow
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Medina River Greenway - beautiful river in the forest

Medina River Greenway

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in full bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rural, less-crowded greenway trail offering stunning spring wildflowers, river views, and birdwatching opportunities.

4.2
(5 reviews)

"Wildflowers in the spring are amazing, like riding through an impressionist painting."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Trail Pavement

Older sections of the trail can be deteriorated; watch your step or bike carefully. :athletic_shoe:

Spring Wildflower Season

Visit in spring for an unforgettable display of wildflowers; it's truly breathtaking. :sunflower:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spring Wildflower Spectacle

Spring Wildflower Spectacle

Ride or walk through a vibrant, impressionistic painting of colorful wildflowers blanketing the trails in spring.

Instagram
Mitchell Lake Birdwatching

Mitchell Lake Birdwatching

Observe waterfowl and diverse bird species in Mitchell Lake, frequently full and teeming with life.

Reddit
Mission Reach Connection

Mission Reach Connection

Explore the seamless connection to the Mission Reach, expanding your trail adventure south of Mission Espada.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Trail Conditions & Connectivity

The Medina River Greenway offers a rural, less-crowded experience, now connected to the Mission Reach. Be aware that older pavement sections can be deteriorated. Spring wildflowers are a major draw, so plan accordingly for this beautiful natural spectacle. Reddit

Embrace the Scenery

This trail is known for its stunning natural beauty, especially the vibrant wildflowers in spring. While some sections are paved, others are more rugged. It's a great spot for biking and hiking, offering a peaceful escape with views of the Medina River and Mitchell Lake. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers in full bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter trails, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

However the better abayas/thobes are in the main area in my opinion. The small market is better for small gift items etc. #madinah #shoppingtip #travel #traveltok #umrahtip #masjidnabawi
@bismapar
181.5K likes • 2.8M views

Check Trail Pavement

Older sections of the trail can be deteriorated; watch your step or bike carefully. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Spring Wildflower Season

Visit in spring for an unforgettable display of wildflowers; it's truly breathtaking. Instagram :sunflower:

Medina rooftop guide! #makkah #islam #muslim #deen #inspiration #history #medina #fyp #fypツ #information
@hajjandumraexpress
22K likes • 260K views
Check out One of the most adventurous trails on the Southside of San Antonio at Medina River Natural Area. Have you ever hiked the Medina River Greenway Trail? 🥾This trail is 13.3 mi long with an elevation gain of 413 ft. 📍15890 State Highway 16 S, San Antonio, TX 78264-3583 🚴 You can hike or bike the paved trail that has lots of turns and amazing scenery along the way. Beautiful cactus vegeta...
sa_socialista
0 likes • 2K views

Connect to Mission Reach

The trail now links to the Mission Reach, offering extended exploration opportunities. Instagram :world_map:

Peaceful & Rural Vibe

Enjoy one of the least busy greenway trails for a tranquil outdoor experience. Reddit :leafy_green:

Morning hike along the greenway trails, first stopping at the Mission Espada sanctuary, then walking down the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River Walk and onto the Medina River Greenway Trail. @missionsnps @saparksandrec @missionheritagepartners @caminosanantonio @sanantonioriver @sariverfoundation @tamusanantonio We didn’t make it all the way to Cassin Lake — there is a road that seems to ge...
ingamcotton
12 likes • 327 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Trail Pavement

Older sections of the trail can be deteriorated; watch your step or bike carefully. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Spring Wildflower Season

Visit in spring for an unforgettable display of wildflowers; it's truly breathtaking. Instagram :sunflower:

Connect to Mission Reach

The trail now links to the Mission Reach, offering extended exploration opportunities. Instagram :world_map:

Peaceful & Rural Vibe

Enjoy one of the least busy greenway trails for a tranquil outdoor experience. Reddit :leafy_green:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Medina River Greenway for its beautiful natural scenery, especially the stunning wildflower displays in spring and the peaceful, rural atmosphere. The trail's connection to the Mission Reach is a significant plus for extending exploration. However, some older paved sections are noted as being in poor condition, detracting slightly from the overall experience.

"Go take a look, walk the trails, you won't regret it.... Absolutely beautiful"

Ned L Ayers ll

"This trail is now connected to the Mission Reach just south of Mission Espada. The trail is the most rural of the greenway trails and one of the least busy. Along with the Medina River it passes beside Mitchell Lake, which is frequently full of waterfowl. Wildflowers in the spring are amazing, like riding through an impressionist painting. Some of the pavement on older sections of the trail is badly deteriorated, otherwise I'd give it five stars."

Steven Eby

""

Tony Simms

What People Like

Beautiful wildflower displays
Peaceful, rural atmosphere
Connection to Mission Reach

What People Dislike

Deteriorated pavement sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can access the Medina River Greenway from various trailheads. The Roosevelt trailhead, near the TJ Maxx warehouse, is a popular starting point to walk east towards Cassin Lake. Instagram It's also now connected to the Mission Reach, south of Mission Espada. Instagram

Parking is available at trailheads like the Roosevelt trailhead. It's recommended to check specific trailhead information for parking availability and any associated fees. Instagram

Yes, the Medina River Greenway is suitable for biking. It features a paved trail, though some older sections may be deteriorated, so exercise caution. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The trail is now connected to the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River Walk, south of Mission Espada, offering an extended trail system to explore. Instagram

To find the most beautiful stretches of wildflowers, park at the Roosevelt trailhead and walk east towards Cassin Lake. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Medina River Greenway is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee. Enjoying the trails and natural beauty is free. Instagram

As a public park, the Medina River Greenway is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check with San Antonio Parks and Recreation for any specific hours or closures. Instagram

No, tickets are not required for entry to the Medina River Greenway as it is a public park. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard park rules. However, always be mindful of posted signage and park regulations. Instagram

While the trails are generally safe, some visitors have reported a 'creepy vibe' due to sparse crowds in certain areas. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Medina River Greenway trail is approximately 13.3 miles long, offering a substantial route for hiking and biking. Instagram

Expect a rural and natural landscape with views of the Medina River, Mitchell Lake (often full of waterfowl), and stunning wildflowers in the spring. InstagramReddit

The trail passes near Mission Espada and is connected to the Mission Reach, which encompasses several historic Spanish missions. Instagram

The trail has an elevation gain of approximately 413 feet, making it a moderately challenging route for some. Instagram

Some visitors have noted a 'creepy vibe' in more secluded areas, mentioning remnants of old structures like a fireplace. The area is also associated with local legends like Donkey Lady Bridge. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The spring wildflower displays are incredibly photogenic, creating an 'impressionist painting' effect. Instagram The riverbanks and Mitchell Lake also offer scenic opportunities, especially for bird photography. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Spring mornings are particularly magical for capturing the wildflowers. Instagram

Yes, Mitchell Lake is frequently full of waterfowl, making it a great spot for bird photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife. Reddit

While the trail is more about natural scenery, the connection to the Mission Reach provides opportunities to photograph historic mission structures. Instagram

A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, like a 24-70mm or a telephoto lens for birds, would be beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive wildflower fields. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Medina River Greenway offers a great opportunity for families to enjoy nature. The paved sections of the trail are suitable for strollers and younger children on bikes, though parents should be mindful of the deteriorated pavement in older areas. Reddit The connection to the Mission Reach provides a longer, more engaging route, and the chance to see waterfowl at Mitchell Lake can be a fun educational experience for kids. InstagramReddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during spring to witness the beautiful wildflowers, which can captivate children's imaginations. Instagram

🚴 Cyclists

Cyclists will appreciate the extensive length of the Medina River Greenway, offering a 13.3-mile route for a solid ride. Instagram The paved path is ideal for road bikes, but be prepared for some rough patches on older sections that might require a hybrid or mountain bike for a smoother experience. Reddit The connection to the Mission Reach opens up even more mileage, making it a fantastic option for longer cycling excursions. Enjoy the scenic views of the river and the vibrant spring wildflowers. Instagram

🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the Medina River Greenway provides a less crowded and more rural experience compared to other greenway trails. Reddit The 13.3-mile trail offers ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural landscape, with the Medina River and Mitchell Lake as key features. Reddit Spring is a must-visit season for the spectacular wildflower displays, turning the trails into a photographer's dream. Instagram Be prepared for some uneven terrain in older sections and keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially waterfowl at the lake. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

The Medina River Greenway offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical connection. Spanning approximately 13.3 miles with an elevation gain of 413 feet, it provides a good workout for hikers and cyclists alike. Instagram The trail is predominantly paved, but be aware that older sections can be significantly deteriorated, requiring careful navigation. Reddit The landscape is characterized by its rural feel, offering peaceful stretches along the Medina River and views of Mitchell Lake, which is a haven for waterfowl. Reddit

One of the most celebrated aspects of the Medina River Greenway is its stunning display of wildflowers during the spring. Visitors describe it as riding 'through an impressionist painting,' a truly breathtaking experience that draws many photographers and nature enthusiasts. Instagram The trail's connection to the Mission Reach, south of Mission Espada, significantly expands the exploration possibilities, linking it to a network of historic Spanish missions. Instagram This connectivity makes it an ideal destination for a longer outdoor adventure.

Despite its natural charm, some visitors have noted a peculiar 'creepy vibe' in more isolated parts of the trail. This is sometimes attributed to the sparse presence of other people and the discovery of old, abandoned structures like a fireplace. Reddit Local legends, such as the story of Donkey Lady Bridge, also add to the area's mystique. While these elements might deter some, for others, they add a layer of intrigue to the outdoor experience.

Best Times to Visit & What to Expect

The Medina River Greenway truly shines in the spring, when the trails are adorned with a spectacular array of wildflowers. This is arguably the most picturesque time to visit, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities and a vibrant, immersive natural experience. Instagram Visiting during weekday mornings or afternoons can offer a more tranquil experience, as the trails are generally less crowded than on weekends. Reddit

For those seeking a peaceful escape, the Medina River Greenway is one of the least busy greenway trails in the area, making it perfect for a quiet hike or bike ride. Reddit The presence of Mitchell Lake frequently attracts a variety of waterfowl, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Reddit However, it's important to be prepared for varying trail conditions; while much of the path is paved, older sections can be quite rough, so sturdy footwear or a well-maintained bicycle is recommended. Reddit

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