05 November . 2015
Outdoors in the Texas Hill Country
Living in Sweetwater means that you not only see the bright stars at night, but are able to experience all of the things that the Texas Hill Country offers outdoors in the daytime.
Check out this article, courtesy of About Travel, on the best outdoor adventures in the Texas Hill Country.
The scenic Texas Hill Country offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. From paddling calm waters to rock climbing, there is always some thing to do outside in the Texas Hill Country Region.
1. Paddle Lady Bird Lake
Formerly known as Town Lake, Austin's Lady Bird Lake is one of the city's defining features. And, for many Austin area visitors and residents, Lady Bird Lake is a central part of their outdoor recreation. In many ways, Lady Bird Lake helps define life in Austin and is one of the city's most popular attractions. Lady Bird Lake is the easternmost lake in the seven-lake chain on the Colorado River. These lakes are collectively known as the Texas Highland Lakes. While swimming is not allowed on Lady Bird Lake, popular water sports include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, rowing and paddle boarding. More »
2. Rock Climb at Enchanted Rock
Located just north of Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock is one of the largest natural rock formations in the United States, with a dome that rises 425 feet above the ground (1825 feet above sea level). Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1970, Enchanted Rock is also part of the Texas State Parks System and attracts thousands of visitors annually. Hiking is the primary recreational activity at Enchanted Rock SNA. A 4-mile trail encompasses several rock formations. A shorter, steeper foot trail leads to the top of Enchanted Rock. In recent years, rock climbers have begun exploring some of Enchanted Rock's more challenging areas and the park has quickly become a popular rock climbing destination. More »
3. Hike McKinney Falls
Austin is certainly one of Texas' most scenic cities. And, as compared to other cities its size across the country, Austin offers residents and visitors an ample array of outdoor recreation venues. But, perhaps none of these are as surprisingly scenic and "wild" as McKinny Falls State Park. Located within the cities of Austin, McKinney falls is home to its namesake waterfall, as well as the confluence of Onion and Williamson Creeks, numerous bald cypress trees and a massive amount of limestone hills and cliffs. These elements conspire to enrich the state park's natural beauty. The fact it is located within one of the nation's largest cities is simply amazing -- and convenient. More »
4. Mountain Bike Hill Country SNA
Located just outside the scenic Hill Country town of Bandera, Hill Country State Natural Area is very secluded and remains undeveloped -- a great location for exploring on foot or on bike. Hill Country SNA boasts 40 miles of multi-use trails that traverse grassy valleys and across stream-fed creeks. Much of the trail loop is bordered by the Hill Country's signature limestone cliffs. Mountain bikers can find easy stretches of trail, with very little grade, as well as steep grade, technical sections of trail. Other popular activities within Hill Country SNA are camping, backpacking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, equestrian camping, and nature viewing More »
5. Water Ski at Lake Travis
Stretching over 60 miles, Lake Travis offers fishermen, sailors and water sport enthusiasts plenty of room to spread out. Lake Travis has a reputation as one of the top lake for water skiing in the Lone Star State. Impounded in 1941, Lake Travis is located on the Colorado River, approximately 20 miles above Austin. Since filling, Lake Travis has been one of the most popular water sport destinations in the Lone Star State. Scenic, hilly shorelines and deep, clear waters afford the perfect backdrop for sailing, diving, boating, canoeing, windsurfing, water skiing and more. More »
6. Swim at Barton Springs
Located in Austin's famed Zilker Park, Barton Springs was formed when Barton Creek was dammed. Since its inception, Barton Springs has become one of the most popular swimming holes in the state. The City of Austin has operated Barton Springs as a park since 1917. Several improvements have been made to the Barton Springs "pool" over the years, but it remains a spring fed, natural water "swimming hole." More »