Getting back out into New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a growing city, but there’s still plenty out there to explore. Check out some of these picturesque locations.

Mini Golf

Elizabeth Avenue, New Braunfels

Landa Park is known for its rich variety of trees, miniature train and ample parkland for visitors, but it’d be hard to blame a visitor entering the park for missing the miniature golf course. Tucked away along Elizabeth Avenue near the Wurstfest grounds and Circle Arts Theatre, the miniature golf course offers visitors a quick escape from monotony for just $3 (unless said golfers are under the age of 3, in which case they can play for free). Despite its 18 holes being dwarfed by the nearby Landa Park Golf Course, the course is no joke. The course is open daily this summer from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday through Saturday.


Panther Canyon

Landa Park Drive, New Braunfels near the gazebo

Looking to experience nature but escape the rays of the Sun? Take a turn down Panther Canyon, tucked away in the back of Landa Park, the 1-mile long trail would make you think you’ve stepped out of New Braunfels and into some sort of wilderness. While the distance might not sound intimidating to serious hikers, it’s still a good idea to throw on some decent shoes to traverse the rocky terrain. And as this is Texas in the summer, don’t forget your water!


Devil’s Backbone

Ranch Road 32 east of Canyon Lake

Getting back out in the world doesn’t necessarily mean venturing out into the great wilderness. Devil’s Backbone is a stretch of Ranch Road 32 that winds along a ridge looking out into the Hill Country. While it might be tempting to throw caution into the wind and whip your car around a corner, it’s best to heed the warning in the name. Admittedly, it’s difficult to keep eyes on the road though, because a look in the right direction can give some of the best vistas in the area. Pro tip: Stop at the picnic area for some of the best views without the dangers of traffic.


Fischer Park

1935 Hill Top Summit Road, New Braunfels

New Braunfels is well known for Landa Park, but Fischer Park doesn’t always get the same amount of name recognition. On the east side of Interstate 35, the 62-acre park sits atop a hill and features 2 miles of trails, a nature education center, fishing ponds and a splash pad. The area also offers a hilltop view of the city. The park is open from 6 a.m. to midnight.

Faust Street Bridge

Faust Street, New Braunfels

Most summer visitors to New Braunfels head straight for downtown and then straight for the Comal River, but had they taken a slight detour on Seguin Street before heading under the railroad overpass, they’d find themselves at the Faust Street Bridge. According to the city of New Braunfels’ website, the bridge was the first major toll bridge in Texas, linking San Antonio to Austin across the river.

The pedestrian-exclusive bridge today features benches and a breath-taking view of the Guadalupe River below. Below the bridge along the river is ample room for gathering and relaxing around the picturesque waters. 

Cypress Bend Park

503 S Peace Ave, New Braunfels

Cypress Bend Park is another local park on this list, but it’d be a mistake to not mention this one. The approximately 17-acre park is bordered by the Guadalupe River, and because of its location, offers a respite from some of the busier areas of the rivers without sacrificing on views.

Cypress trees mark the edges of the river with several spots for laying out a blanket or towel for relaxing. The park even features a small beach area for visitors to take a dip. 

Guadalupe South River Trail

16510 S Access Rd, Canyon Lake

The Guadalupe River once again makes an appearance on this list, but this time out near Canyon Lake. The Guadalupe South Trail runs along the river, leading hikers down a winding and often steep path with views of cypress trees and limestone peeking out from the riverbed. Although it’s a bit more of a drive than some of the other locations mentioned, the path offers a good way to get lost for an hour or so without actually getting lost.

Headwaters at the Comal

333 E. Klingemann Street, New Braunfels

Have you ever seen the beginning of a river? The Headwaters at the Comal is an area surrounding the headwaters of — you guessed it — the Comal River. Landscaped with native plants and demonstrating sustainability, the area offers ample learning opportunities for visitors.

Established in 2017 by New Braunfels Utilities, the 16-acre site is a former utility facilities property that has been transformed into an evolving conservation project that helps educate visitors on the Hill Country and its rivers.

Dry Comal Creek Hike and Bike Trail

3565 Loop 337, New Braunfels

What if you want to take your bike off-road? Look no further than the Dry Comal Creek Hike and Bike Trail. According to the Comal Trails Alliance, this is the only mountain bike-friendly trail in the local parks system. The 2.25-mile trail wraps around the Little League Ball Fields and offers up-close views of local native plant life. But if visitors just want to take a hike, they are welcome to leave the bike at home and take their time on the trail.