The City-Side Running Route That Needs to Be on Your Travel Bucket List

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If you're the kind of person who loves to squeeze in a cool workout on all your vacations (and would rather go beyond the hotel gym) we just found you a must-add to your next travel itinerary.

As if the tacos, cacti, and outdoors-obsessed culture aren't reason enough to jet off to Austin, TX, the trendy Butler Trail running route alongside the city's downtown skyscrapers makes it a fitness destination, too. So we hit up this year's SXSW—the buzzy festival that makes headlines for showcasing what's next in tech, music, and beyond—to try it out ourselves.

And it didn't disappoint. For the inaugural SXSW Wellness Expo, we teamed up with next-level hydration solution Liquid I.V. (which fit right in with the innovative vibes) to host a run along the iconic route. 

The scenic run followed the second most popular running trail in the country, nbd.

Before heading out to festival events, runners got their a.m. endorphin fix along one of Austin's signature red dirt trails (the second most popular running trail in the country, nbd). And with everything from a GIF photobooth and fully stocked swag bags at the finish line, the run was like a mini festival itself.

Scroll down to check out the next-level Austin running scene.

sxsw trail run liquid iv

Before the craziness of the event-packed day, festival goers stocked up on good vibes with a jog and a bottle of Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier.

All you have to do is mix the Hydration Multiplier powder into water—and then breakthrough science taps the hydrating powers of potassium, mined salt, and non-GMO pure cane sugar to deliver energizing B vitamins to your bloodstream ASAP to help boost recovery (AKA, no post-workout slump).

sxsw trail run liquid iv

The scenic trail boasted impressive views of Austin's skyline and the Colorado River for endless Instagram opportunities. Runners had the option to complete one four-mile loop, or run the whole trail for a seriously impressive 12-mile trek.

liquid iv austin sxsw

Swag bags and pre-filled bottles of Liquid I.V.-infused water were waiting for thirsty participants after they returned from their jog. (It's legit: One packet of Liquid I.V. mixed into 16 ounces of water is designed to provide as much hydration as three whole bottles.)

sxsw trail run liquid iv

The event fit right into the budding wellness scene in Austin, and attracted SXSW badge holders and city passersby to come pose for the GIF booth.

sxsw trail run liquid iv

Trail all stars finished their sweat sesh on the 92-degree day at the fully stocked hydration station, where they sipped on bottles filled with the electrolyte-charged beverage. Hydration, hacked.

In partnership with Liquid I.V.

Photos: Ryan Brady for Well+Good

Tags: Running

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