Outdoors

Outdoor Recreation in the Lake Travis Area

Austinites are known for their health-conscious attitudes, and the communities surrounding Lake Travis are no different.

You can always spot cyclists and runners in the area, whether in neighborhoods or even on the more busy roadways. You'd almost have to work at not being active considering the many miles of hiking and biking trails, swimming spots and array of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed all year long.

Recreational activities aside, the Lake Travis area is home to all manner of athletes, including various championship teams at the high school level. Among them is the Lake Travis High School football program which boasts six state titles.

But you don't have to be in training for a marathon to enjoy the great outdoors in the Lake Travis area. Check out some of the Lake Travis area outdoor activities you and your family can start enjoying today.

Peter Pan Mini Golf for Rookies

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | May 30, 2014

Peter Pan Mini Golf is an Austin institution. Family owned and operated since 1946, it’s one-of-a-kind and uniquely Austin.

It’s hard to miss the giant, iconic statue on Barton Springs and South Lamar. The place is fun and memorable for people of all ages. On any given day you’ll see kids, adults, coworkers on “team building” excursions, locals and tourists alike all putting colored golf balls through strange things.

If you’ve never been but plan to check it off your Austin bucket list this summer, here are a few helpful tips:

Zilker Park: Something For Everyone at Austin's Most-Loved Park

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | May 23, 2014

Zilker Metropolitan Park is one of those enchanting places you could spend an entire day — heck, an entire week — and not get tired of exploring.

At 350+ acres the place is huge. It includes the famous Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin Nature & Science Center, a playground and tons of green lawn area.

Another highlight is the Zilker Zephyr train that chugs through the park daily. It’s and inexpensive and fun way to see more of the park. I did this recently with my family and we all enjoyed the experience.

Lake Travis Marinas: Emerald Point Marina

Written by Mandy Spivey | May 13, 2014

Lake Travis harbors its fair share of marinas. If you own a boat and are looking for a place to launch, it can be a tricky thing narrowing down the list of Lake Travis marinas.

Emerald Point Marina is located along a deep channel of Lake Travis, making it accessible in low water and a prime spot for all your boating adventures.

Boat rentals, storage and launching all happen at this watery fort, which boasts 308 covered and uncovered boat slips and can store vessels up to 100 feet in length. The year-round storage facility is also climate controlled.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: An Experience For Every Season

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | May 9, 2014

One thing I love about the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is that it provides a different experience depending on the season. I’ve visited several times, and although the wildflowers are best during the spring there is never a shortage of things for the entire family to do and see.

The brand new Luci and Ian Family Garden is a big highlight, and I can tell it will be a fun exhibit any time of year. Named for lead donors Luci Baines Johnson (daughter of President Lyndon and first lady Lady Bird Johnson) and her husband, Ian Turpin, the Family Garden is over four acres of interactive features great for all ages.

We went to the Grand Opening last weekend and the entire family had a blast. It was a fun-filled day, with plenty of activities for the kids including face painting, a scavenger hunt, prizes and games.

Tom Hughes Park on Lake Travis: A Hidden Gem

Written by Todd Hower | May 8, 2014

Here’s a secluded spot with beautiful views of Lake Travis that not many people know about. Tom Hughes is a Travis County Park tucked away between The Oasis and Mansfield Dam in the main basin of Lake Travis.

When you decide to go check out this hidden gem, head over to Marshall Ford Road located right across from the Randalls at Steiner Ranch. Shortly after turning off Ranch Road 620 is when you’ll notice a sign for Tom Hughes Park that will point you in the right direction. You’ll be on the same road that leads to the Marshall Ford Marina.

Outdoors

Outdoor Recreation in the Lake Travis Area

Footer

Legal Notice