One Of Austin's Oldest Tourist Attractions Is A Scenic Texas Overlook With Panoramic Lake Views And Park Beauty

Texas' capital is widely visited for its barbecue scene, flagship stores, and so-called "Dirty 6th Street." Despite its man-made entertainment, there's a more natural side to the city that draws in visitors and locals who have known about it for years. Mount Bonnell has been an Austin staple since the mid-1800s, making it one of the city's oldest attractions. The limestone overlook sits more than 780 feet above sea level, with more than 100 steps leading to the top. From the summit, visitors can see Lake Austin, the Colorado River, and the surrounding hills. Hikers go for sunrise, sunsets, and midday picnics.

Mount Bonnell is located in Covert Park, where the surrounding beauty makes the trail just as exciting as the revealing lookout point. The area's wooded surroundings and open areas give visitors space to linger after climbing the stairs to the viewpoint. Its natural setting provides a stark contrast to Austin's busier, whimsical main streets, while its elevated location makes it a popular spot for taking in the landscape and spending time outdoors. It's around a 15-minute drive northwest of downtown, an easy escape from a buzzing itinerary — another side of Austin many visitors never experience. 

Mount Bonnell provides sweeping waterfront views for those wanting to spend some time in nature without straying too far from the city center. After you've filled your stomach in the top-ranked barbecue city in America, take a rideshare to Mount Bonnell. Even with public transport, it's a bit time consuming to get there, so a car is your best bet for efficiency. The park is free to enter and is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. for early risers or those who enjoy an evening hike. The trail up is shaded (as shown above) but steep enough to break a little sweat. The early morning and evening hours can also be useful during Austin's hotter months, when tackling a steep staircase in the middle of the afternoon can be a challenge. Once at the top, the pavilion and picnic areas provide a place to rest before heading back down.

The park's location also makes it possible to pair the stop with nearby eateries and watering holes rather than treating it as a full-day excursion. Nearby options include La La Land café, Draught House Pub & Brewery, as well as Snooze, an A.M. Eatery. Our very own publication has even featured the trail to a short list of activities for solo female travelers in Austin, adding to city's overall appeal.