Multiple intricacies within the parks known as Town Lake Metropolitan. Waller Beach, the various trails and paths, the boardwalk, Ladybird Lake, etc. Such a peaceful and beautiful area to get in exercise (walking/running/leisurely strolling), enjoying the outdoors, year-round. Great to explore alone or with friends and family, or your furry friend. Different spots to sit and relax. Simply a beautiful piece of Austin for locals abs tourists alike. read more

You haven't explored Austin until you take a stroll through the series of parks through the Town Lake areas. Covering multiple miles, you'll see parts of downtown alongside the colorado river. Along this pathway, you'll be lead to the Barton Springs municipal pool and the Zilker Park & Garden as you go west. Going east, you'll eventually find your way along the Boardwalk near the Town Lake apartments and then at some point, the peace point at lady bird lake, one of the chillest spots in Austin to zone out. Obviously you bike, jog, run, walk, dogwalk, skip, however you prefer to galivant along the way of this beautiful section of the capital of Texas. It's one of many reasons people love living here! read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - What a view! - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Austin is a great place to live and visit for many reasons, including this beautiful place to walk, run and bike. Even on a warm, sunny day when it seems everyone is out and about, you can still find spots of quiet and shade and relaxation. There are great views of downtown, the lake, flora and fauna all along the trail. every bend you round brings a new view. It's safe enough to traverse alone and the paths are wideand easy enough to bring the whole family. read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Downtown from the trail - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

The name of this page kinda bugs me, as it doesn't *really* help you know what this listing is about... but I'll get over it. You came here to find out where to be outdoors near the water in downtown Austin, and this is a great starting place. Often when people say they are going to "Town Lake", what they mean is that they are either (A) going to run/walk/bike on the surrounding trail or (B) going to play in the wide open green spaces off Riverside Drive between the Long Center and the river. But that's not all there is! Here I'll give a list of highlights that you'll find around Town Lake (which is today officially named "Lady Bird Lake" after our beloved former First Lady and champion of beautiful parks, Lady Bird Johnson). Parking Ha! Like I'm gonna tell you my super secret awesome spots. If you get up early enough, free 2 hour parking is usually no problem at Auditorium Shores, on Riverside, or around Austin High School. For covered/pay options, the Long Center garage or the City Hall garage are good. During special events, One Texas Center is often the overflow free parking area for early risers. SpotHero and ParkMe are decent apps to locate open spaces, too. The ParkX app can be used to pay for metered street parking except in the State-managed streets around the Capitol. The Trail Since we like to give everything at least 3 different names to keep all the newcomers confused (that's the reason, right?), this jewel of our public spaces goes by several monikers: Ann & Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Town Lake Trail, Lady Bird Lake Trail, The Boardwalk (a fancy newer section on the southeast side). The mostly dirt & gravel loop runs 10 miles from Mopac to Pleasant Valley (Longhorn Dam) and back, but it's easy to take a shorter loop with other crossings at Lamar, the Pfluger Foot Bridge, South 1st, Congress, and IH35. There are plenty of water fountains, restrooms, and shaded benches for rest along the way. You may also notice commemorative bricks and plaques to honor loved ones no longer with us and others who have helped to maintain and improve this wonderful public space. The interactive map by The Trail Foundation is the best resource for finding what you need & where you are on the trail: http://www.thetrailfoundation.org/explore/butler-trail-maps/ The Water One can have all sorts of fun on our downtown lake, which is a dammed up portion of the Colorado River. Kayaks, stand up paddle (SUP) boards, canoes, water bikes, and more can be rented from several vendors around the park, and if you have your own (trolling motors only), head to one of the many drop-in points http://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/lady_bird/access.phtml and enjoy yourself. Be sure to note all the warnings & rules http://www.austintexas.gov/page/lady-bird-lake about water activities; swimming is generally not allowed and fishing requires a license. Several companies also offer cool sundown cruises on larger vessels, whether for special occasions or just to view the spectacular evening flight of our local bat colony. If you're a rabid checker-inner, you'll want to note these Yelp listings for various public points of interest along or adjacent to the trail: + Lady Bird Lake https://www.yelp.com/biz/lady-bird-lake-austin + The Rock https://www.yelp.com/biz/town-lake-running-trail-the-rock-austin + Zilker Park https://www.yelp.com/biz/zilker-park-austin-2 + Lamar Bridge https://www.yelp.com/biz/lamar-boulevard-bridge-austin + Pfluger Bridge https://www.yelp.com/biz/pfluger-bridge-austin + Shoal Beach (where Shoal Creek joins the Colorado River) https://www.yelp.com/biz/shoal-creek-park-austin + Congress (Ann Richards) Bridge https://www.yelp.com/biz/bats-under-the-congress-avenue-bridge-austin + Festival Beach https://www.yelp.com/biz/festival-beach-park-austin + Ed Rendon Park at Festival Beach https://www.yelp.com/biz/edward-rendon-sr-park-at-festival-beach-austin + Kreig Field Softball Complex https://www.yelp.com/biz/kreig-field-softball-complex-austin + Roy Guererro Colorado River Park https://www.yelp.com/biz/roy-g-guerrero-colorado-river-park-austin + The Boardwalk https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-boardwalk-trail-at-lady-bird-lake-austin + Auditorium Shores (aka Vic Mathias Shores) https://www.yelp.com/biz/auditorium-shores-leash-free-dog-zone-austin-3 + Zero Mile Marker https://www.yelp.com/biz/zero-mile-marker-austin + Butler District Park https://www.yelp.com/biz/butler-district-park-austin + Doug Sahm Hill https://www.yelp.com/biz/doug-sahm-hill-austin read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Trail overview map from The Trail Foundation - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

Very nice riverside views with lovely nature thrown in. Be wise about when you choose to be there (must pay for parking during the week, but it is saturated with people on weekends, at least around noon). read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

There is not much that I can say, that many of my fellow yelpers have not already said about these wonderful parks. I often refer to Town Lake is being our Central Park when describing it. I love running the trail with my boxer and clearing my head. Sweat the stress away!!!! It is nice to see so many people in our community enjoying the outside and staying healthy. It motivates you to work out more. I freely admit, there have been more then a few times someone twice my age has passed me up like I was a turtle. I have also caught the Mayor out running the trails many mornings. I don't know why I think that is cool, but I do. Old Dude gets after it. I used to run with music, but lately I have found myself turning off the headphones and trying to listen to the sounds of nature on my stroll. Seeing the progression of this City that I have lived in for almost 20 years Downtown and tripping out on how much it has all changed. Looking for new things I might have missed. Even with all those changes good and bad, this is one place I hope to always be able to enjoy and brag about to my friends and family elsewhere. So much to do, whether it is running, walking, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, rowing,fishing, or just laying in the grass and relaxing. Great with the family for a nice afternoon outdoors or with your significant other for a romantic run. Get to Town Lake and fall in love with Austin. read more

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One of my favorite spots in all of Austin.... You can do as little as a 1.6 mile loop, 3.2 miles or mix and match a multitude of loops to get just the desired distance. My doggies love it too... You should hear them howl when the car is zooming down Caesar Chavez, river in view, human and canine pedestrians, runners and cyclists in view. It is so very Austin, and as a Random iPhone photographer.... I have WAY too many pictures of this place at sunrise, sunset, night, day, yada, yada, yada... Although one can never have too many pics. There are strategically located dog bags all over the trail and an off-leash area at the Auditorium shores side for those with dogs that come when they are called, rather than run the great escape to China. This is one of my favorite areas - with my dogs on-leash :( to watch all the "doginalities" (dog version of a personality) frolic and play... watch for wet dogs, or they could shake you down with a bit of river rain. If exercise is not your thing... strolling along the Pfluger pedestrian bridge is pretty cool... great place to watch the sun come up or go down. Impress your significant other with a picnic to enjoy just such a time. 10 years in Austin, and I have yet to tire of Town Lake. There is always some sort of uniquely impromptu Austin entertainment to be found here... so keep your eyes peeled for an experience. Go - enjoy! read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Reflections Under Lamar Street bridge - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

Beautiful place to spend couple of hours! Watch out! Lots of tortoises and squirrels are just around you! This is what i adore about the place! There is also a boat rentals for more active people!:) read more

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This review refers to the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail, a 10.1-mi loop around Town Lake (part of the Colorado River) from Longhorn Dam to Mopac. The trail is mostly crushed gravel that is easy on the knees during running or walking. Some stretches are concrete just because the trail might have cut through a part of the urban area or the trail was renovated. It is an excellent place to run, walk, or meditate. The beauty of the water and the greenery, especially on a cloudless day, is mesmerizing! Seeing the other runners and walkers compels one to be part of the healthy Austinite population. The trail doesn't have enough long stretches of uphill to train decently for uphill running. Most of the inclines are not very steep. There are a few water fountain areas (some with dog bowls even) scattered along the trail. RunTex generously provides many coolers of cold water at the Rock (north shore under Mopac) and under the South 1st St. bridge (south shore under South 1st at Auditorium Shores). Places to park are: Austin High School Tennis Center area under Mopac on the north shore, the west end of Riverside Dr. (west of the Lamar Blvd intersection) sort of behind Zach Scott Theater, the NE corner of Riverside and Lamar, under the South 1st St Bridge (SW corner of South 1st St and Riverside, under I-35, the NE intersection of I-35 and Riverside, on the south side of Caesar Chavez a little east of the Lamar "intersection." I don't consider myself well-traveled, but the Town Lake trail is the nicest one I've ever seen. The south shore of the part west of I-35 makes you forget you are in the center of a city. The only thing I dislike about this trail is the risk of inhaling small insects in the summer evenings while running. They're harmless, but it's annoying. Another obvious thing is to watch out for large rocks or grooves if you're walking or running on the edge of the trail, but one should always watch where they're going or stepping anyway. The Town Lake trail also connects to other major trail systems like Shoal Creek or the Barton Creek Greenbelt so there's quite a bit of distance to explore. Check the map for the connections. If you ride a bike along the trail, consider wearing a helmet since it's possible for your tires to slide on the gravel while making sharp turns to avoid pedestrians. read more

Update: Still love this place... but wanted to update a few details 1) no sponsored ice cold water on the trails anymore... 2) new bathrooms built a few months ago! just go underneath the Mopac bridge... look for the green gates. woohoo! 3) guys looking for pull-up bars & don't want to ruin your doorway at home? they have em here! look for them near the dog park (south side of the lake). read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Zilker - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

There's something so peaceful about going for a run along the water. Maybe it's seeing the little turtles sunning themselves on rocks and pieces of wood. Or maybe it's the cute squirrels that scurry across the path, seeking a safe place for their acorn. Or maybe it's the flora and fauna, like the beautiful pink and purple flowers that bloom on the trees during summer. One of the most relaxing things for me is to turn on some motivating tunes, and hit the trail. The section I run along isn't paved, so my shoes do become covered with dust, but that's ok. I feel more outdoorsy running on a dirt path. There are always people around, so I feel safe. I am sometimes startled by a biker who whips past me from behind, but in general, bikers on the path are respectful and share the path. The trail features all different types of people: hard core runners, mothers jogging with their strollers, young lovers going for a stroll, and families walking their pets. Anyone fits in here, and I like that. My only major dislike is the terrible allergy attacks I have after my runs in the spring and fall. I'm not exactly sure what is floating around out there at those times, but I know it does not get along with my nose. I still love it though. So get out there, enjoy nature, beauty, sunlight - be alive :) read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - beautiful nature - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I absolutely love the outdoors I love to hike, walk or run with the pup preferably places with water for the pup to swim in. So, I am a bit embarrassed to admit I have lived in Austin for 7 years had never gone for a run here before today. I spent a good 3 hours running or walking and exploring the trails today and what a beautiful day it was. I usually prefer the less populated more scenic hiking trails; but, I think the Pup and I have found a new lover closer to home. We will definitely be back for more fun soon or at least once a week for an after work run. Thank you Austin for being so outdoor exercise and dog friendly - we love you! Update: I forgot to add cute girls riding their bikes in bikinis. read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - My Pup in the leash free area - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Stumbled on this while waiting for Sweetie to finish her conference, on the second day. Our friends and I needed a place to park and wait for her, and this has free parking, right where we needed to be. And then... we realized we were in an incredible park, right downtown. Trails, dogs, the river, shade, a food truck, all kinds of green space. Absolutely incredible. After Sweetie was done we all came back down here, and enjoyed it all over again. There's a statue of Stevie Ray Vaughn. There are various boats to rent. And again: free parking, downtown. Who could ask for more? read more

This is one of the places that brought me back to Austin for the third time. I usually do the 3.47 mile loop from the Mopac Bridge to the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, but there is plenty more to explore on this trail. Along the way, you will most surely find a slice of Austin. The people, the views and the growth that is now defining the city. read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Town Lake, or you can call it Lady Bird Lake if you want the locals to chuckle at your expense, is one of my favorite places to walk my dog. There are many water fountains with dog bowls, leash free areas, and most runners/cyclists are respectful enough to not run or ride into you. If your dog is social, it will love the off leash area where dogs swim in the lake, play fetch or frisbee, and play around with other dogs. Please just make sure to clean up after your pet! There are free doggy poo bags and plenty of trash cans to make it easy on us to keep the trail clean. In my experience, the trail at Town Lake is more suited for joggers than cyclists, although I enjoy both activities there. Usually it is too busy for a cyclist to get through the crowds without stopping and walking through the dense parts or skidding to a quick stop because a child or dog ran in front of your bike without looking. On a less busy day, I enjoy riding amongst dozens of other cyclists. The Hike and Bike Trail is much more preferred than the dirt trail, but either makes for a good time. read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

After doing some research on things to do in Austin, this came up as one of the top things to do. Since it was so close to where we were staying, I had to check it out. And I'm glad I did :) It was a Sunday and everyone was out and about. You had your runners and bikers. Dogs jumping in the rivers and running about. Mothers chatting while pushing their strollers along. Meanwhile you had the water lovers paddling away on the river. Others were just either sitting and relaxing or out enjoying a nice afternoon stroll (We were one of these people!). I can see why this place is loved by so many! You Austinites have it good! read more

This beautiful well-maintained park is a must-see for Austin's residents AND visitors! We had a lovely 2 hour walk around half of the lake, where we saw many runners, happy families, and pooches. The water is clear and sustains many beautiful birds and turtles--wow! Every city in America should be so lucky as Austin to have a place like this! read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Herons (?) - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

One of my favorite spots in Austin and definitely my favorite place to go running. People of all ages are out and about at Town Lake from dawn til dusk. It's a great place to exercise, take your dog out to play, or just to people watch. The hike and bike trails range from a 1.2 mile loop all way up to a 10.2 mile loop, so there's a good distance for pretty much any runner. The parking at the Auditorium Shores entrance is almost always full and sometimes you have to wait a few minutes before getting a spot, but typically it's no big deal. Honestly the only thing I dislike about Town Lake is that the Auditorium Shores off leash dog park has become very desert like over the years. It would be great if they would close off part of it to re-sod and get some grass growing again! read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Under the Mopac bridge - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

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You've got to be dead on the inside to not enjoy hanging out around Town Lake. It's a multipurpose path connecting pretty much anything you could want to do downtown to just about everywhere else around the river. It does appear busy, but I've always been surprised when I'm on it that I don't feel like I'm on a superhighway. Not for people who don't like exercise or are incredibly lame. read more

This is one of my favorite series of parks in Texas! Town Lake Park goes along the lakes formed by the Colorado River along Austin's shores. This beautiful park is full of wide, crushed granite stone and concrete walkways that make it easy to bike, hike, roller skate, skateboard, or stroll on! There's a bunch of other paths and parks that feed into and out of this park, so it is a great way to get around Austin without having to worry about traffic. There are plenty of places for you to relax under a tree and enjoy the wonderful view of downtown! It's so great at night when the reflections of the building are bounced off the surface of the water. There are places along here to rent kayaks, canoes, wave boards, etc. The water has always been clean, so please keep it that way! There are places along the park trails for public restrooms, and lots of benches to hang out on. You don't have to stick to the trails around here, you're welcome to explore the parks at will! There are lots of ducks and other fowl around here- so watch out for them! read more

I like Town Lake because you never know what you'll find. It's true. We've seen a live performance on guitarpsichord, a stuffed animal hiding in trees, a sand trooper protecting the trails, and a unicyclist. I have pictures to prove it, too. Sometimes it can get a bit chaotic with all the bicycles and baby strollers. But if you get there early enough, it's a nice place to for a variety of activities: jogging, strolling, dog walking, kayaking, canoeing...and you can even ride the Zilker Zephyr. Make sure you wave to the conductor! read more

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This place is very tranquil and peaceful. I've came across this twice while visiting last week. The first time I walked across it, I promised that I would revisit. When we came back the second time, I was in awe because of the beauty this place takes on. Activities: You can do a ton of activities in this astonishing park/lake. You can kayak, paddle board, swim, bike, run, walk your pets and much more. We walked here from our Air B&B at The Ashton and it was not a far walk to get here. I don't think this park is too big of an area so you can probably walk this entire park in less than two hours. If you are a tourist, make sure you stop by and see this wonderful scenic place. read more

Town Lake Metropolitan Parks - Beautiful lake - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

The Town Lake Trail is one of the jewels of the City with a Violet Crown (that's Austin's nickname per O'Henry). Rather than wax poetic about the aesthetics and other metaphysical profundities of this superb greenspace, I thought I'd provide my very own, preferred rules of the Trail. These rules are based on the observation that the Trail is heavily used by a lot of people. 1. Only a complete jackass thinks it's cool to ride their mountain bike on the Trail as if they're doing some sort of cameo for a sugar-addled sports drink commercial. Sure, the Trail is billed as a hike and bike trail, but it's not a challenging bike trail: it's the bunny hill to the slopes of real mountan bike trails. This is a polite way of recommending that mountain bikers ride the other available trails, and thereby avoid further endangering the mostly pedestrian traffic on the Trail. And, to be blunt, whizzing past other runners, walkers, and even people with strollers is unsafe and borderline rude. 2. Like on the highway, slower traffic should keep to the right on the Trail. Just because the trail is wide and spacious doesn't mean it's designed for you, and only you, to walk down the middle of it listening to your I-whatever. There are scads of joggers and runners who will pass you in short order. Troddings down the middle of the Trail makes your body a needless obstacle to others. As a courtesey to these other users on the trail, it is best for the slower traffic to keep right. 3. Fast people need to be courteous too. Your mission to break that best mile time on Strava doesn't mean you are entitled to be a jerk to people who are in your way. Nor does the might of your flight give you license to clip or plow into hapless, oblivious bystanders. If you have to slow down for others, transform your work-out into interval training and move on. 4. Animals on leashes can be a hazard. Taking your pet dog, cheetah or iguana on a run on the Trail is fun, but keep the leash and the animal under control lest both become a tripwire for other Trail users. Oh, and if you bring an animal on the Trail, and it leaves something other than paw prints on the ground, pick that something up lest others find it the hard way. 5. The Trail is the worst place to bring a massive group. Huge groups don't work well on the trail, and have the tendency to gum up traffic in both directions. If you want to rove around with your own Hoplite phlanax, consider Zilker, Congress, or the Capitol grounds. If, however, you do bring a mega group to the Trail, keep people to the right so that the traffic can flow. 6. Remember that there are several organizations, including the Town Lake Trail Foundation, RunTex, and Rogue Running to name a few that help make the Trail the gem that it is. 7. Strollers and wheelchairs always have right of way. 8. Smoking anything on the Trail is an exercise in epic tastelessness. These recommendations all point to the fact that the Trail is a community commons: anyone and everyone can use it. How we behave and interact on this commons has a direct bearing on the exeriences of others. read more

Last Tuesday was so glorious outside i had to jump on the bike for a ride around the hood. As soon as i got out there though i just told myself the hood wasn't good enough for this day. So into the Tahoe we both went and i ended up at Butler Park to start my ride. I took it leisurely at first, checking out all the sights and like minded folks that were all out enjoying the day. It was such a nice and different change of scenery from my usual rides. I mean Austin skyline, Ladybird Lake, the Long Center and of course the great trail i was riding. I finally got to use the Pfluger Bridge and really enjoyed it. Plenty of nice benches to take a rest or chat over the lake. So after my touristy ogling i needed to get serious. So down to Mopac Bridge and over to the North shore and east towards 1st st bridge. Got to pass the Equestrian police which was fun. Loved the people watching as the ride picked up. Lots of pups and ducks ..... Over 1st st and back onto the south shore to auditorium shore. Admiring the beautiful Long Center and passing Stevie Ray's statue. So much fun i ended up riding this loop 3 more times before i had to head back North. I cant believe I have not ridden down here before but I am planning on a regular riding regimen this spring. Great workout, great atmosphere. I love riding on my neighborhood trails or parkland trails. But sometimes I like to reconnect with the heart of my hometown. This is the place that lets me do that and helps me appreciate the good, simple things we all can enjoy about Austin. Only next time I am thinking about riding up to Gingerman for some cool refreshment - post ride of course. read more

Another great park in Austin for running, walking, kayaking, paddle boards, etc. The issue can be parking but honestly I haven't had too much of an issue the few times I have been here. The park yields beautiful scenery and people watching. Enjoy! read more

I love all the reviews on here about the trails. It seems like everybody sticks to the busier ones. So the other day, we wandered under the IH35 bridge into the east side trail and were approached by a bum trying to sell us something. We ignored him, but for a second I began to think what I would have done if my fiancé wasn't with me. I would have gotten Mexican on his ass, but that's besides the point. I'll do stupid shit sometimes like go through paths that aren't as busy. Damn you Robert Frost! That bum could have kidnapped me and sold my organs on the black market! Maybe not, but all I'm saying is stick to the west side if you're going at it alone. read more

It's never as apparent how Town Lake is so stupendous and the all-encompassing park we cherish it for as when you introduce a new transplant to it. Don't worry, they're nice and not living in a high-rise. I think I lost my voice explaining its greatness walking its shores, side-stepping its dogs and marveling at its sunset perspectives. This ever-giving river and its surrounding parks has yielded moonlight floating serenades by kayak, barefoot water-dipping picnics, hand holding, first kisses, family outings, three-legged races, stretching, bike rides, jogs, Pride Parade prepping, Kite Festivals, summer freeze-spring swimming, scavenger hunts and always, always the chance to catch up over a walk. The first week of each new year, there's a palpable sense of hope in the air so thick you can drink it in, but regardless the time of year, returning home after time here leaves you with a sense of renewal and accomplishment. If you were to ask me where the pulse of Austin is, I'd say smack here. read more

Love Town Lake! Perfect for running. My only reservation is when I have to drive here and I'm just getting warmed up for a run and I want to walk on to the trail. It's like trying to merge onto Mopac right before rush hour. Everyone is full steam ahead and it makes merging difficult! Other then that it's perfect. I'm a big biker but I don't think I'd take my bike here unless it's during the off-peak times. If it's cool out there are way too many people out running and walking which makes it difficult to pass. A lot of people have dogs too, so that can make it complicated. Also, just an offside word of warning. If you intend on running alone and not during the peak hours please use some precaution. In order to accumulate more miles I need to run down on the 35 side. As a blonde female, running alone, it can be a little nerve wracking having to run under the bridges and in the parks as you get close to Riverside and 35. Just use precaution. I have had a few experiences that made me nervous. I run with pepper spray hanging off my running belt and wear my headphones (but turn them all the way off) when going by questionable characters. Nothing has happened but please be smart about it! It's so beautiful here and they do a great job maintaining the trails. Oh, and the Austin PD works out in the mornings.... :) :) :) read more

The best way to view the downtown skyline and lake itself is on the water. Rent a kayak, paddle board, or canoe and caravan with a couple friends to the center of the lake. The lake compliments our ever changing skyline perfectly. You can even watch the Congress bats from this spot, but beware of flying poop. read more

I'm pretty sure this is going to be the easiest review I ever write, as the Town Lake Hike & Bike Trail is, without a doubt, one of the three things that make downtown Austin the greatest place on earth (the other two being live music and, of course, me.) You see, I used to be a lazy piece of shit. I remember running a mile in jr. high once, but now that I think about it, I might have just watched Chariots Of Fire on a rainy day in P.E. Not long after moving downtown, I took a walk down to Auditorium Shores and was blown away: lush green trees, a beautiful lake, little kids flying kites, dogs and cats slow dancing with one another... And I haven't even told you the best part - an immaculate trail of decomposed granite that forms a 4.5 mile loop from South 1st to Mopac with coolers of ice cold water on either end (RunTex - you rock. I'l get to you one of these days). I decided that day to take up running, and have been hitting a 5-10 mile run at least twice a week now for the last 2 years. It's my happy place. Now to the people who live within a mile of this wonderland who neither use nor appreciate it: You need to move. Go up to Round Rock. Go out the Arboretum. Go somewhere, anywhere, else. Do you know many starving kids there are in Africa that would love a nice trail to run on? Stop taking up space that could be filled by someone who understands what an asset this place is. You should be ashamed. UPDATE: In case you're interested, you can map out your run distance with GoogleMaps Pedometer (http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/). Mad props to Justin B. for turning me on to this thing - I've had it for 1 hour and its already changed my life... read more

Although my love for Town Lake and the hike and bike trails surrounding it might even outstrip my love of pellet ice and miniature donkeys, I made the awful mistake of walking here last Saturday around 1:30 when it was nearly 100 degrees on a late May day without a cloud in the sky. Tired of being "weak" and staying indoors in the arctic blast of my AC, I opted to bravely venture out into the heat for a nice long walk. It's easy to get lost, if you're people watching and scenery-ogling, on the various circuitous paths and trails, which is exactly what happened to me. I accidentally missed my usual bridge to loop around the lake and somehow took a detour into Mystery Magical Pothead Land, aka, near Zilker Park where the running trail ends and the launchpad for kayaks and canoes begins. I started to wonder where the hell I was when I began seeing more hemp and piercings and less spandex and Nikes. Then, like the Mad Hatter, two out-of-their-everlovin'-gourd hippies appeared in my path, sitting smack dab in the middle of the trail. Looking up from his cigarette, one of them managed to lazily proposition this delightfully incomprehensible quandry to me: "Heeeeyyy. Wannna slither with me and go watch the Chipmunks?" He seemed fairly sincere, given the fact that he might have mistaken me for a forest animal or a light prism. Looking back, I have no idea whether he was referring to the classic Saturday morning cartoon, a platoon of invisible chipmunks in a nearby tree or cove, or if this was some "insider" drug platitude I was unfamiliar with, like "tossing the lettuce" or "riding the white pony." Either way, I power walked my ass off as quickly as possible. Soon I found my way back into Fitness Land, and made a mental note to stop watching cute dogs go by when my turnoff was looming next time. My walk, though literally resulting in a dive into my complex's pool immediately afterwards, and a little frightening in the style of a trippy Alice in Wonderland, reminded me why I love Town Lake so much - it takes all types. Runners, walkers, bikers, perambulators, bongo players, kayakers, canoers, potheads and sundry druggies unite here in the remarkable beauty of shaded green and lapping water. And the good thing is, no matter your healthy (or um, not so healthy) poison, there's miles and miles for everyone to spread out and enjoy. Hey, even chipmunk watchers gotta have some downtime, right? read more

This was a truly beautiful park in Austin. We kind of stumbled up on it on accident too while we were walking to dinner but we had a great walk here and even got a fantastic view of the city at night. Apparently this is a leash free dog park too and I really wish that we had one this large in California too. During our walk we saw a ton of people walking their dogs, joggers, students, and families taking in the view. Granted when we were there, it was after a pretty big thunderstorm so the trail was pretty muddy but it was still very enjoyable. There is also a river too where you can rent a boat to go out. We didn't do it because the bad weather but I imagine that it would be lovely on a warm day. I think this would be a nice place for a picnic too with your friends or family. Not to mention, there is free parking....in downtown! What more can you ask more? Grab your friends and go out to this park to enjoy Austin and nature! 5/5 read more

If you're looking for evidence that Austin's development and rapid population growth is being closely monitored for its long-term impact on the city, look no further. Town Lake and the parks that surround it are one of the many signs that Austin residents care about their city and are personally invested in its upkeep. This relatively crime-free recreational area is a haven for runners and cyclists alike (mountain bikes or hybrids only) as well as recreation go-ers in general. With enough space to host large events like Austin City Limits it is surprising that The Town Lake Train Foundation has time to label each and every vine of poison ivy on the Town Lake trail to keep Austin's kiddos out of trouble. As a runner, I know the value of a safe and well-maintained trail. The 10 mile loop around the lake, particularly the Western half which runs between Congress Ave. and the Mopac bridge is particularly lovely with water stops (ice water and sometimes Gatorade) ever few miles. For running or walking the trail, I recommend parking under either the Mopac or first street bridges. The trail has numerous information signs and mile-markers to help you keep your bearings. This area offers an abundance of recreations options for visitors and locals alike. Rock climbing, canoe rental, Barton Springs (our large natural Spring-fed pool), Volleyball courts, soccer fields, and a mini site-seeing train for the kids are among some of its best features. Also, the nearby Botanical Gardens, a gift to the city, and the adjacent butterfly garden and some of Austin's best kept secrets. Happy Trails! read more

8 YR OLD GIRL, with zero confidence problem, walks up to LARRY, a strapping buck, and his DOG, Charlie. GIRL: Can I pet your dog? LARRY: Sure can. She pets him, looks at me, squints. GIRL: What's his name? LARRY: Charlie. GIRL: My dog's name is Charlie! LARRY: Seems like every dog's name is Charlie. GIRL: I know, right? She skips back to her father, who smiles as she screams "HIS dog's name is Charlie!" and Charlie and I walk on...the trees' greenest of greens, swaying in the breeze, as rowers whiz by on the lake. Charlie stops, mounts (here goes), and poops. I pick it up with a park-provided poop mitt, and two different groups of joggers cheer me or thank me for doing that. I walk proudly with my bag of Charlie's shit. Dump it, he says thanks (I think), and we continue. We stop at the water station under Mopac. Charlie's a hit with the kids as they run over to him and he revels in it, knocking over half of them with his wagging tail. We venture forward, past the rowing center where folks are getting instructed, as the adorable GM smiles and waves as we go by... ....while we eavesdrop on quick successions of people's cel phone conversations... "...I'm going to take the Tour Guide test...no the TOUR guide test...THE TOUR GUIDE TEST...yeah, that's what I said....you wanna go?" "...NASA loved your project..." "...yeah, you have to MEET the fuck buddy first.." 6 Stars. read more

Right in beautiful downtown Austin. It holds so many memories for me. The kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, canoeing, even pedaled a huge floating duck on a date lol. It's the beautiful back drop of the reggae festival. It's got a dog park, a trail to run walk or bike. So much fun! read more

The Town Lake/Lady Bird trail reminds me of the Burke-Gilman path back in Seattle: it runs near the center of the city, is well marked and you can do endless loops of running or walking along it. Except the Lady Bird trail may be slightly better. There are parts of the Burke-Gilman that are industrial, while the Lady Bird trail seems to be more nature related. It's a nice stroll next to the waterfront replete with little benches to sit and areas where you can rent kayaks, a little side kid play area and little grottos where people were practicing yoga. It's mostly a dirt path, so it's easy on the feet (and knees) but appears to be well-maintained. Since I was there in the heat of the summer, even the 100+ degree days weren't so bad since there was ample tree-cover. read more

I love running the Town Lake trail! I was never much of an endurance runner growing up. I could sprint for those bursts of energy, but ask me to run a mile and I'd just flat out refuse. Well, thanks to this trail I can now run a 10K-- nonstop. That may not sound much, but going from barely making it a mile to flying through 6 of them is a big deal for me. I spent so many mornings and afternoons out here pushing myself to reach a little farther each time, and now I love to run. The views of the lake are beautiful, there is never a shortage of dogs running around, kids learning to ride their bikes, kayakers, rowers... one of the BEST outdoor spots in Austin. LOVE. read more

Are any of these buzz words for you? Runs, jogs, walks, dogs, paddle-boarding, canoeing, shade, nature, picnic tables, views, photo-ops, swimming, FREE. Welp, if none of those words did it for ya, I'm probably not the first one to tell you that you need to get out more. We all know the city of Austin has a ton of live music, thrift store shopping and groovy eateries all around but sometimes I think the traditional tourist is not aware enough of all of the active life! I'm not a local, but I sure do feel like one when I walk around Town Lake with my dog, Olof or hop on a peaceful paddle-board! read more

Oh Town Lake my dear, we have such a powerful love-hate relationship, don't we? If you're reading this review, contemplating a visit, well then SHAME on you my friend; you cannot call yourself a true Austinite until you've been here. Austin is one of the few cities that have something like this to offer. It is definitely #1 on my favorite places list in Austin; you'll never find such an escape like this elsewhere. This place has so much to offer it's obvious why it's always packed! The dog park is something to see, regardless if you have a pup or not. There's water access for your dog generally crowded by a wide variety of dogs jumping in after tossed tennis balls. It's a leash-free zone as well! The views--oh the views--breathtaking, some of the best photographs can be snapped down here. Lace up the sneakers, go for a run--get healthy, enjoy the sun you know you want to; it's the place to go. If you're not a runner, you will be, you'll be pulled in, I was! Axe the gym, skip the pool, you'll find some sense of serenity walking, running, jogging, people-watching along the trail that you won't find anywhere else. Need I not forget the amenities, kayaking, canoeing, water-bike rentals, paddle-boating, SUP rentals, you name it...you'll find it down here. Now a major plus: RunTex puts out water jugs all along the trail and cups, just in case you need a refresher. How many parks do you know of, that offer that?! Occasionally our relationship goes sour--may it be the windstorm that tosses everything in my face as I walk, or the fishy, man-sweat odor lingering along the walk--be it what it may, we still find each other! read more

I LOVE THIS TRAIL! My friend lives right by one of the entrances and while he was napping post-brunch, I decided to go for a quick jog around the area. It was such a nice day out and just being around other runners was awesome. There were people playing water polo on kayaks under the bridge, which looked cool, as well as walkers/runners/furry friends of all ages and types frequenting the area. If nothing else, it's great for people-watching. read more