Lady Bird Lake, formerly known as Town Lake, is a reservoir on the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. It is named after Lady Bird Johnson, the wife of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. The lake is a popular destination for recreation, including boating, fishing, swimming, running, and walking.
Here are some of the most popular things to do at Lady Bird Lake:
- Boating: Lady Bird Lake is a popular spot for boating, including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and rowing. There are several rental companies located around the lake.
- Fishing: Lady Bird Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white crappie, black crappie, and catfish. There are several fishing piers located around the lake, as well as boat ramps for those who have their own boats.
- Swimming: Lady Bird Lake is a popular spot for swimming, but it is important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty. There are several designated swimming areas located around the lake, including Barton Springs Pool and Auditorium Shores.
- Running and walking: The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is a popular spot for running and walking. The trail is 10 miles long and runs along both sides of the lake.
- Picnicking: There are several picnic areas located around Lady Bird Lake, including Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park and Zilker Park.
- Watching the bats: Lady Bird Lake is home to a large colony of bats, which emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge every night at sunset. There are several viewing areas located along the lake where you can watch the bats emerge.
Other activities that you can enjoy at Lady Bird Lake include:
- Biking: There are several bike rental companies located around the lake. You can also bike on the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail.
- Birdwatching: Lady Bird Lake is home to a variety of bird species, including ducks, geese, herons, and egrets.
- Geocaching: There are several geocaches located around Lady Bird Lake. Geocaching is a fun activity where you use a GPS device to find hidden containers.
- Volunteering: There are several volunteer opportunities available at Lady Bird Lake. You can volunteer to help clean up the lake, plant trees, or monitor the bat colony.
Here is a possible itinerary for a day at Lady Bird Lake:
- Morning: Start your day with a kayak or canoe rental from one of the several companies located around the lake. Paddle around the lake and enjoy the scenery.
- Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch at one of the many picnic areas located around the lake. After lunch, take a walk or run on the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail.
- Evening: Watch the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do at Lady Bird Lake.
Here are some additional tips for enjoying your time at Lady Bird Lake:
- Be aware of the weather conditions. Lady Bird Lake can be dangerous in bad weather, so it is important to be aware of the forecast before you go.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be strong in Austin, even on cloudy days. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Bring water. It is important to stay hydrated, especially if you are going to be active. Be sure to bring water with you when you go to Lady Bird Lake.
- Respect the wildlife. Lady Bird Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and bats. Be sure to respect the wildlife and do not disturb them.
- Leave no trace. Please pack out all of your trash when you leave.
Lady Bird Lake is a beautiful and popular destination in Austin. By following these tips, you can ensure that your time at Lady Bird Lake is enjoyable for everyone.
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