Alright Austin, it's Memorial Day, and if you're planning on hitting the pavement or the trails, today is a mixed bag that leans more towards "know before you go" than "go for broke."
- The air quality looks decent on paper, but keep an eye on that ozone, especially if you're sensitive.
- It's already heating up, so plan your runs early or stick to shaded routes to avoid cooking yourself.
- Major trail construction continues to plague some of our prime running real estate, requiring detours and patience.
Lungs: Breathe Easy, But Not Too Easy
The good news for your lungs is that the Air Quality Index (AQI) is sitting pretty at 26, which is firmly in the "Good" category. You'd think that means a clear shot for a deep breath, right? Not entirely. While the overall number is low, the dominant pollutant is listed as Ozone/Other. And let's be real, Austin knows a thing or two about ozone creeping up when the sun bakes. Just last week, Travis County saw an Ozone Action Day, which means sensitive folks were already getting told to chill indoors. So, while today's numbers are low, if you've got asthma or any respiratory issues, consider hitting those miles earlier in the morning before things really start to bake and ozone can build.
And for my fellow allergy sufferers, don't forget it's still "Moderate" pollen out there. While that might feel like a Tuesday in Texas, it's enough to make you sniffle through those intervals.
Pro Tip for Lung Health: If you're hitting the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail early, you'll dodge the worst of the heat and potentially lower ozone levels. Double win.
Joints & Routes: Construction, The Austin Runner's Nemesis
Now, for the stuff that'll really test your patience and possibly your ankles: construction. It's Memorial Day, so while City of Austin Parks and Recreation offices are closed, the parks and trails themselves are open. Unfortunately, so is a whole lot of ongoing construction.
The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is still a beast, and it's carving up sections of our beloved Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. If you usually cross Lady Bird Lake on the east side of I-35, forget about it. That pedestrian crossing has been closed since February for new bridge construction and won't be back for about a year. You'll need to reroute to South Congress or the Wishbone Pedestrian Bridge at Pleasant Valley if you want to swap shores. Expect significant reroutes on the north shore near the Confluence and Austin Rowing Club building, with work lasting through 2033 in some areas. Plus, the pedestrian ramp to the Boardwalk along northbound I-35 frontage road at Riverside Drive is closed until 2029. Seriously, it's a marathon, not a sprint, trying to navigate these changes.
And it's not just I-35. Parts of the Shoal Creek Trail are still a mess. The trail between Shoal Creek Blvd and the Janet Fish Bridge has been closed for repairs since late April. And let's not even get started on the long-term landslide closure near 26th-27th Street. These aren't new closures, but they're constant headaches for those of us who just want a clear path.
Trail Alert: Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail & Shoal Creek: Portions of both these popular trails are under heavy construction or reroutes. Always check for current detours before heading out, especially around I-35 and the Shoal Creek corridor. Don't expect your usual clear run.
Weather: Hot and Getting Hotter
It's 28.4°C (about 83°F) and "Mainly Clear" out there. That's a solid, sweaty Texas spring day. While not "extreme heat" territory yet, it's warm enough that you need to take it seriously. Hydrate, wear light clothing, and for the love of all that is holy, don't be that person collapsing on the side of the trail. OSHA is even updating its heat rules this year, emphasizing heat hazards. So, if even workplaces are stepping up their game, you should too.
There's also a "KORRECT MURPH" fitness event kicking off today at 8:00 AM. If you're participating or just running nearby, expect more folks out and about.
Heat Hazard: Mid-morning onward, the temperatures will be high. If you're planning a longer or more intense workout, shift it to the early morning. If you see someone struggling, offer help. We look out for each other here.
So, enjoy your Memorial Day workout, but go in with your eyes open. Be smart about the heat and ready for some detours. Austin's always under construction, but that doesn't mean your run has to be a disaster.
Data grounded with TCEQ and City of Austin from May 23-25, 2026.