Hugging the shores of Lake Travis, Lakeway is a small city on the outskirts of Austin that was established on the site of a ranch owned by Houston oilman Jack Josey. It’s particularly renowned for its recreational pursuits with several excellent trails to explore and provides a base for a variety of water activities throughout the year.
Things to do in Lakeway
Fishing, swimming and kayaking are all popular activities at Lakeway City Park, which overlooks the Hurst Creek Arm of Lake Travis. You can walk, jog or rollerblade along the three miles of trails, picnic in the covered pavilion or let the kids run loose in one of the park’s two playgrounds. Other highlights of Lakeway City Park include the aptly-named butterfly garden and the wildflower meadow when in bloom.
Walkers and cyclists can also explore the Hamilton Greenbelt, a short trail that opened in 1990 on land donated by Lakeway residents Jack and Myrtle Hamilton. It winds its way beneath stately oaks along the banks of Hurst Creek and passes by a photogenic waterfall that makes an idyll picnic spot. As the trail ascends a small hill, you’re treated to impressive views of Hurst Creek emptying into Lake Travis.
More strenuous is the nine-kilometre-long trail that winds through the Canyonlands, a spectacular canyon particularly impressive during the autumn months when the leaves are changing colour. The trail takes in dramatic lookouts, bridge crossings and a waterfall (during the wet months) and offers sightings of migratory ducks who come to rest here during the winter and spring.
Getting around Lakeway
Lakeway is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Austin and about an hour from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of getting to and around Lakeway.