The Complete Mission Trail Guide

Mission Concepción historic church front
Mission San Jose Church
The arches along the cloister of Mission San Jose

The Spirit of San Antonio

The Mission Trail is one of only 26 World Heritage Sites in the U.S.—a collection of five historic missions linked by a walking & bike path from the Riverwalk all the way to the furthest mission.

The Mission Trail path (14 miles) can be driven, biked, or walked as it has a path that hugs the river that runs through them (see detailed maps below). The San Antonio Mission Trail is potentially the best thing San Antonio has to offer. It is something that must be experienced by every local and every visitor at least once.

Tourist Rating

9.0/10

Bicyclists

9.3/10

History Buffs

9.6/10

Our Recommendation

  • Catch a National Park Ranger-led tour at Mission San José (10am, 11am, or 2:30pm). These tours are free & wheelchair-accessible.
  • For the best experience, bike the trail: Rent a B-Cycle for $25, ride the 14-mile round trip past all five missions. Plan 90 min of biking + 30 min at each stop. Avoid biking above 80°F!

Things You Should Know

  • The missions are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
  • Guided tours are available at The Alamo and Mission San José only.
  • Weather: San Antonio’s heat & humidity can make this no-shade path tough! Check the weather before biking/walking.
Weather Forecast
Alamo - San Antonio

The Mission Trail Map

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The Mission Trail Path Map

  • Length: 14 miles (bike, walk, or drive)
  • Hugs the river, stunning scenery, wildlife, historical art/installations
  • The river path connects four parts:
    Purple Line: Mission Trail
    Bright Blue: Blue Star to Riverwalk (peaceful)
    Blue Circle: Riverwalk
    Dark Blue: Riverwalk north to Zoo (partial).

How to Experience the Missions

  • 🚴 Biking the Trail (3–4 hrs): Rent a B-Cycle for $25. 14 mile round trip, 90 mins biking + 30 mins/mission. Start early, avoid >80°F.
  • 🚶 Just a Taste (1hr walk/15 min bike): Park at Roosevelt Park, go south to Theo Pkwy Trailhead at Mission Concepción Park. Scenic taste of trail.
  • 🚗 Driving – All Missions (2–4 hrs): Start with Frutería for snacks, park is free at all missions. Most relaxed & flavorful way.
  • ⏱️ Driving Quick Trip (45min–2hr): Visit San José (most popular) or San Juan (most peaceful/time travel). Skip Concepción & Espada unless you’re a completist – 45 minutes at one is enough for most folks.