Posted in Austin
September 12, 2017
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.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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.
"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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
