This year will be my 4th Sunshine Run 10k and it has become an annual must for me because it's just…read morean all-around good time for a good cause. The weather is usually perfect in early May, the crowd is manageable, parking is a breeze, the finish-line festival is fun, and if you can run a halfway decent pace, you'll have a good chance at an age-group medal. Quite a few "serious" runners I know refuse to participate in our hallowed Cap10k (we just had the 41st edition of that one) because it is so overcrowded with non-runners who clog up the course and make it frustrating if not somewhat dangerous for those who are working to hit a time goal. That is not much of a problem with the Sunshine Run, as the number of participants is about a 10th of that in the Cap10k. Plus, the out-and-back course (Riverside - South 1st - Cesar Chavez - Veterans - Lake Austin - Exposition turnaround) is mostly flat except that little bitty hill by the fire station. On the way back to the common finish line, there can be a few annoying moments when you have to get around the walkers who are just now finishing their 5k, but there's plenty of space to maneuver. I kind of love the level of youth participation in the race. When you sign up, you have the option to make an extra donation to support fees so that a low-income child can run the race, and I see lots of school and recreational run clubs participating in the team challenges. Back at the finish festival, there are the usual fun things: music, free food & drinks, vendor swag, photo ops, etc. Oh, and lots of adorable dogs, because the race features a "fastest dog in Austin 5k" contest. I always just pay to park in the Long Center garage with no problem, but it would be easy enough to have someone drop-off at Riverside & Lamar or at Barton Springs & South 1st.

What a great race for a great cause. I found out about this race on the Austin Talk thread. Lucky…read morefind! The registration was only $25 for the 10k (6.2 miles) ....not sure how much the 5k was or the kids fun run. But anytime you find a cheap 10k you sign up for it! What really sets this race apart is that it is a race for a cause. Your entry fee goes towards summer camp tuition and fees for families that can't afford to pay. Awesome!! In addition to that, you can raise money and get swag...$50 raised gets you a T-shirt...hat...camel back thingy...more swag for how much you raise. The course begins on Auditorium Shores and stays flat except for the lil hill by Deep Eddy. It loops back around by the Cvs/Randals. The 5k makes the turn at Austin HS. I will definitely sign up for this race again! A super way to stay fit and give back.

AWESOME EXPERIENCE A friend and I went rappelling with Rock-About at Enchanted Rock. Adam was very…read morepatient with us both being beginners! I was a little nervous at the start of the day, but Adam's experience and kindness quickly made it a fantastic excursion. He answered all of my questions and explained technique and gear. We hiked, rappelled, and short roped, and we had plenty of time to rest in the shade and take in the views. Lots of variety with the rappelling and each with great instruction. We had SO much fun. Absolutely would do it again and would recommend Adam and Rock-About!

My family of four joined Rock About for a half-day top-rope climbing trip at Reimer's Ranch. Our…read moreguide, Moshe, was fantastic! In addition to being knowledgeable and safety-conscious, he was patient, encouraging and charismatic. Moshe showed us locations to climb that challenged our varying skill levels, from beginner to experienced indoor gym climber. He explained climbing technique so well that we were belaying each other independently. My family had a great time!

Most of the earlier reviews are over eight years ago and the Austin skyline has changed…read moresignificantly. We've been lucky the last couple of years as the skies have cleared up after 1pm and it's been warm with a steady wind ideally for flying kites. The layout is similar to most events at zilker. There are two food areas with lots of food trucks, a market area with artisan vendors, and a kite vending area to buy a kit or bling out your kite. There's also a rock wall. You can even buy a vip experience where there's covered seating and food options. As for entertainment, there's a stage for the kids and various lite completions throughout the afternoon. If it's clear outside space under the trees are a premium. An enjoyable Sunday at the park. Be sure to keep an eye out for kite strings too - don't want to get trampled by a kite. This event happens the middle Sunday of April. For 2024 it was Eve before Tax Day.

Come here if: 1. You want to see a beautiful blue sky…read moredecorated with a barrage of kites of all different shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. 2. You enjoy picnicking, people watching, and sunbathing. 3. You love seeing an eclectic congregation of young people and old people and old people acting like young people. 4. You need excuses to talk to other. "Oh, I'm sorry. It looks like my kite got tangled in yours. Heehee!" It's so simple-- just a group of people with a piece of string and a flat piece of plastic propelled by the wind. It's so genius and so beautiful. It's a hot, crazy mess (and yes, the good kind). It's a fun and wacky festival. Kite festival commands that you come and laugh and be happy in the lovely Texas presummer weather!

The best bike tour I've ever taken. Personable, accommodating, informative, gracious, everything…read moreyou could ask for. Today I learned a lot about Austin, but mostly I enjoy the conversation and the ride. Beautiful city. Looking forward to seeing more.

The only place I'll be renting bicycles from in ATX. If you have friends and family in town and out…read moreof ideas, either rent bikes OR go on one of the tours they offer. I loved that we were able to just walk in when they opened to grab our bikes. Within minutes, we were on our way. My boyfriend and I rented bikes to ride the Walnut Trail. Prices are really good and include a helmet and lock. The bikes are in great shape and the owner of the shop, Adam, has great recommendations on trails/routes if you're unfamiliar with the area. He was really kind, helpful, and meticulous when making sure our bikes for us perfectly! Can't wait until my parents come into town, so I can take them on a bike and brew tour. They also offer short term and longer term rentals.

I was first introduced to Climb Tech's removable bolts (RB's) in 2001 and I immediately recognized…read moretheir utility in establishing rock climbs. RB's are an absolute necessity when doing first ascents. I've taken many lead falls on them and never once has an RB pull out of the rock. I have 100% confidence in their RB's. Over the years, Climb Tech has honed the RB's design, making them more user friendly and even more bombproof. Also, Climb Tech is the only company that has responded directly to the needs of route equippers worldwide. Climb Tech is one stop shop if you're looking to bolt a new line. For establishing big walls to overhanging sport routes, Climb Tech's products have proved indispensable. Other Climb Tech products I've tried include permadraws, chain draws, chain anchors, adjustable aiders, etriers, bolt hangers, and quickdraws. All of Climb Tech's products are top notch and of the highest quality. The customer service at Climb Tech is as good as it gets. The employees are rock climbers, so they understand the specific needs of climbers. Finally, Climb Tech is locally owned and operated in Austin, Texas! Buy local!

Climbtech is a great company that makes bomber gear that is well priced and they have good customer…read moreservice to boot! I have used their permadraws in the south austin gym as well as out at reimers and I can tell that they are made with amazing quality and will last many years to come. I do kind of wish that they would have a store front for their gear so I can feel and see the difference between everything they have to offer. In this modern day of a digital world and internet ordering, it's still nice to be able to walk into a store, see/ feel what you're about to purchase, and walk out with the product in hand.

Maxwell trail is located off of 1826. The trail is approximately 5.25 miles; the Main (West) loop…read moreis approximately 3.25 miles and the Outer (East) Loop is approximately 2.0 miles. I discovered this trail when attending a trail run with East Side Beer runners. To access the trail, turn into the main driveway off FM 1826. Drive to the parking lot and you'll see an opening through a gate that leads to the trail head. There is limited parking available on site. There is a historical house and plaque about Mary Maxwell. Bikes are only allowed to ride clockwise, while hikers and those riding horses must use the trail in a counter clockwise direction. The trail had some technical sections with rocks and tree roots, but there were also some flat parts as well. A good portion of the trail was covered with grass so it was difficult to see rocks and other obstructions. I managed to finish the 5 mile run without injuring myself. The trail is pretty flat but there were a few portions that had some steps or a bit of elevation. Overall a good start trail for a mountain biker or trail runner.

It was a pretty trail, there wasn't enough tree cover. The grass was a bit high for runningread more

The auditorium is part of the Rosewood Park & Pool in that it sits on the same property. It's a…read moregreat space that I've been in a few times. If it's open and classes are going on when I'm at the park, I will poke my head in and walk about. In addition to the auditorium and wellness classes offered, a state-of-the-art recording studio is also housed in the building. Awhile back I was invited to stop over for a recording session happening with some neighborhood musician friends. My ex-husband is a musician and I know my way around a studio (sorta, lol). It was such a fun experience getting to be present while my friends were recording new tracks. Most recently (weekend of 7/10/26), I attended the three-day 2026 Rancho Alegre Conjunto Music Festival which was a BLAST! Free admission, can't beat that. Tons and tons of bands and performers. I wasn't able to attend all three days but am very happy I was able to make some of it. Saw performances from University of Texas (at Austin) Conjunto, Los Mungias, Texas Sweethearts, Harvey Valdez, Los Texas Wranglers, Grupo Dale Shine, and a few others. It was a magnificent event in a wonderful space. The auditorium is absolutely a community gathering spot for everyone.

I got the opportunity to visit Doris Miller auditorium today. It's been years since I've been to…read morethis auditorium. A fitness workshop with approximately 200 folks present was held at the auditorium today along with a workshop on Imposter Syndrome, which was informative in many ways. The auditorium, a medium sized facility looking much like a gym, is located in East Austin. A number of events are held at the auditorium - town halls, community meetings, performances, concerts, and private gatherings. The auditorium has an elevated stage and additional featues that make it flexible for different setups. The building appears to be aging in some areas. Parking was limited; however, free street parking was available nearby. A little history...Doris Miller was an American naval hero who played a key role during World War II. On December 7, 1941, while serving on the USS West Virginia at Pearl Harbor, he rescued wounded sailors, including the captain, and manned an anti-aircraft gun despite no formal training. For his bravery, he became the first African American to receive the Navy Cross. One key takeaway from the Imposter Syndrome workshop is that many times when we think something about someone, it is usually not true. The presenter used the example of someone being in class and looking disinterested. However, the true of the matter is that they were trying to Shazam a song unsuccessfully. Key takeaway...don't make judgements without knowing all the facts. Importantly, sometimes we are what is drvinging our imposter syndrome.

I discovered yesterday the Boggy Creek Greenbelt when I was looking for parking while volunteering…read moreat the Conley-Guerrero Senior Activity Center. There is a trail that meanders all the way to Rosewood Park...a park that I have spent a great deal of time in over the years. Boggy Creek Greenbelt is a public park and trail in East Austin. It has a mixture of lush green vegetation, a sea of trees and picnic areas sprinkled throughout the park. After my volunteer time, I walked through the park enjoying the fruits of nature. Boggy Creek Greenbelt can easily be used for walking, jogging, biking, and dog walking. You can see pedestrian bridges along the path. I can see the opportunities to unwind, meditate and relax while enjoying the park.

This part of the trail is on the street where I live and a quick jaunt from my place to enter the…read morepath. It's part of Rosewood Park that is also home to the Rosewood Pillar Mural (created by six different artists to beautify underpass columns over the trail). The mural installation is called 'The Pillars Project-Our History, Our Trail'. The project was sponsored by Public City and Raasin in the Sun as part of the trail beautification project. The trail runs along the entire greenbelt and provides a welcoming sanctuary for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Dogs are welcome on the trail and must be leashed. We like taking walks here in the evening and sometimes we'll take a snack and stop off for a mini picnic. Early morning walks along the trail are beautiful with the sunlight hitting the treetops and the creek, providing stunning reflections. The trail crosses Boggy Creek and runs along Webberville Road as well. You can walk it from Rosewood Park (near the pool and pillars) to 12th Street, MLK and more. It's also part of a 32 mile (Red Line Trail, Cap Metro) that goes from downtown out to Leander. It's lovely to have nature literally at our doorstep to be able to breathe in fresh air with peaceful walks to shake off the stress of the day.