CULTUREMAP -- A walk in the park. The expression means something easy to do, even pleasant. And no wonder — who doesn’t like spending time in a park? Austin has a plethora of them, from city pocket parks to our crown jewel, Zilker Park, to far-flung county greenbelts and Lower Colorado River Authority properties. Here are a few lesser known places to enjoy that walk, along with a host of other pleasant pursuits.
Jessica Hollis Park — 14100 Low Water Crossing Rd.
Located on the far north shore of Lake Austin, this 62-acre LCRA park is ideal for picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Expect the water to be brisk; you’re just below Mansfield Dam, meaning said water comes from the bottom of Lake Travis. Parking is $1 per hour.
Mayfield Park and Preserve — 3505 W. 35th St.
These 23 acres contain a complex of shallow ponds and gardens nestled around a restored cottage, originally purchased by the Mayfield family in 1909 as a summer home. The family had peacocks, and the descendants of those birds still roam the park. A network of trails explores the surrounding woods, some leading to the shores of Lake Austin. No pets allowed.
McKinney Roughs Nature Park — 1884 Hwy 71 West, Cedar Creek, Texas
This 140-acre LCRA park, on Highway 71 just 13 miles east of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, has roughly 20 miles of multiuse trails to enjoy by horse, bike, or foot, and with routes featuring wooded hills, open meadows, and Colorado River front. The park also offers guided outdoor and water recreation activities, including a zip line course. $5 entrance fee (12 and under free).
Read the full list on CultureMap Austin, HERE.
