Barton Creek Greenbelt

Cutting across the Balcones Escarpment, Barton Creek carves its way through the rocks of the Edwards Plateau, the southern extension of the Great Plains. These thick limestone beds consist of several different layers made up of sediments deposited by oceans and shallow seas that covered this area over 100 million years ago.

Soaring canyon walls and overhanging rock bluffs flank Barton Creek. They provide evidence of the power of wind and water, and the ancient movement of the Balcones Fault over hundreds of thousands of years. The canyon’s dense vegetation and steep walls afford visitors an opportunity to discover for themselves connections with the forces of nature and the beauty of this special place.

The Greenbelt is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve (BCP), a system of protected lands that provide essential habitat for several federally protected Endangered Species of plants and animals. While visiting the Greenbelt, many colorful birds can be seen darting through the grasses, bushes, and trees. Their songs echo off the canyon walls. Wildflowers large and small can be discovered, while butterflies and iridescent insects fill the air like flying jewels. Much of the Greenbelt is rugged, but the rewards from experiencing this urban oasis make the effort worthwhile.