My ‘Urban Trails Austin’ hiking book is available for pre-order!

Last year I hiked and swam up Santa Elena Canyon at Big Bend National Park. Charlie Gandy photo

I first got hooked on hiking as a kid, when my dad led me into the ravine at the end of our street in Northwest Hills. That led to longer hikes along Shoal Creek and the Barton Creek Greenbelt. But even I discovered plenty of new routes while researching my latest book, “Urban Trails Austin” (Mountaineers Books; $18.95.)

The guide, set to publish Oct. 1, highlights 40 trails in and around the city, from the Ann and Roy Butler Trail at Lady Bird Lake to the Brushy Creek Regional Trail in Round Rock.

I’ve hiked over Whitney Pass on the John Muir Trail twice. Chris LeBlanc photo

The book is available for pre-order now here. I’m also planning several book signings. Stay tuned for more information on that.

I’ve spent the last couple of years sneaking in hikes whenever I can, and I’ve learned a lot.

The best trail if you’re training for a backpacking trip? The River Place Nature Trail.

The best trail for birdwatchers? The Hornsby Bend Trail.

The best trail if you want to take a dip when you’re done? The loop at Commons Ford Ranch.

The 224-page book covers these trails and more, including routes at Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park and along Onion Creek.

If you’re not familiar with my work, I’m a long-time journalist who spent 21 years at the Austin American-Statesman, where I wrote mainly about fitness and adventure. (Remember the Fit City column?) I’m happiest outside, and biking, hiking and swimming are part of my daily life. I’ve backpacked the John Muir Trail and the High Sierra Trail in California, as well as routes through Glacier National Park and Big Bend National Park. Here in Austin, you can frequently find me on the Barton Creek Greenbelt, especially if there’s been rain.

Today I’m on the loose as a freelance writer. I focus on travel, outdoor adventure and environmental issues for about 30 publications, including Texas Monthly, Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine, The Nature Conservancy Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, Texas Highways, and Texas Coop Power Magazine. Find links to my latest work at www.pamleblancadventures.com.