Ann and Roy Butler were instrumental in the beautification of the Trail. At the time, the banks of Austin’s Colorado River were nothing like the lush oasis they are now. The area was nearly barren and floods, common in the Hill Country at that time, regularly swept trees and brush away.
Today, the Trail is enjoyed by nearly 5 million visitors annually. Read more about the history of Austin’s most beloved attraction
The Trail Conservancy works with local partners on projects ranging from restroom restoration to ecologically sensitive enhancements. Read about our ongoing and completed projects.
Nature and conservation programs connect riparian corridors and preserve numerous protected areas along the lake. Learn how we are protecting the ecosystem along the trail.
The Trail Conservancy provides free and engaging programming that connects individuals of every age to the Butler Trail. Many programs have ongoing installations for you to revisit on the trail.