You Could Spend All Day On This Gorgeous Lake In Austin

It's hard to believe that Austin's gorgeous lake, now a centerpiece for the entire city, was once considered one of the biggest eyesores in Texas. Today, you can canoe, kayak, and paddleboard across the 416 acres of clear, pristine water. Ten miles of verdant greenery surrounds this stunning piece of nature, making it a popular destination every time of year. You really could spend all day on this gorgeous lake in Austin.

Though we call it a lake, this body of water is actually part of the Texas Colorado River.

In 1960, the City of Austin created this lake by damming up the river. It was originally created as a cooling pond for the city's power plant. Today, it's the focal point for all outdoor activities in Austin.

Long-time Austinites know this iconic landmark as "Town Lake."

"Town Lake" was always meant to be a temporary name. In 2007, Austin City Council voted to change the name to honor Lady Bird Johnson and her beautification efforts across Texas.

Lady Bird Johnson wasn't too keen on the lake's new name, though.

Instead, she insisted that the city council wait until she passed away to rename the lake. The former first lady was always a modest woman, after all. Two weeks after her death, the city council unanimously voted to change its name.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the lake every weekend.

On cool days, you can hardly see the water due to all of the kayakers on the lake! There's no doubt that this is the pinnacle of Austin, Texas.

Riverboat cruises float along the waters nearly every sunset.

It's also the best way to see Austin's famous bats! From March to November, bat cruises glide across the lake and pause under the South Congress Bridge so guests can get up close and personal with them.

Stand up paddleboarding and kayaking are just a few of the adventures Austinites embark on.

You can't swim in Lady Bird Lake, but there's still a plethora of exciting ways to explore the water. No kayak? No problem! It's easy to rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard for the day.

Even amongst Austin's hectic hustle and bustle, you can always find solace at Lady Bird Lake.

Lady Bird Lake is home to many exciting events.

Don your favorite costume for the annual Halloween paddle or enjoy the stunning views at the monthly full moon canoe ride. The quirkiest of these events, though, is easily the Austin Duck Derby. Benefiting the Austin Boys and Girls Club, this annual celebration releases thousands of rubber ducks into the water and lets them float to the finish line. Whoever's duck gets there first walks home with an exciting prize!

Sparkling waters are just the beginning!

The Ann and Roy Butler hike and bike trail surrounds Lady Bird Lake and provides much needed shade to joggers and bikers. This 10.1 mile trail is perfect for picnics, sprints, and leisurely strolls.

There's a reason why we call this place the "crown jewel" of Austin.

Whether you're canoeing on the water or just taking in the view, there's no denying the grandeur of Lady Bird Lake.

Lady Bird Lake is a must-visit. You'll want to cross this off of your Austin nature bucket list immediately.