We hired bikes from Barton Springs Bike Rental, which has convenient nearby access to the trail, and set off for a loop around the lake. This was on a Thursday morning, and we were pleasantly surprised to see how many people were using the trail. Couples strolling, joggers, dog walkers, cyclists, moms with strollers, all out enjoying the sunshine and this great city resource. The loop around the lake goes a shade over 10 miles, if you go all the way to the dam at the end of the lake, and you get to see built up areas, open parkland, quiet city streets, busy freeways - the whole gamut of life in Austin. If we lived in the city rather than being here on vacation, we would be using this trail a lot

This trail was adjacent to the Hyatt where I stayed. It was a great way to get some exercise in the fresh, beautiful Austin air.

We rode our bikes the whole route when we were visiting Austin ...such an asset to the city. We liked the fact that there were maps along the route.

The hike and bike trail, also known as Lady Bird Lake Trail (after Lady Bird Johnson, who began the beautification efforts in the early 1970s), is a scenic, easy and enjoyable running, jogging, and walking trail in the heart of Austin, Texas. There are 4 bridges crossing the lake, enabling you to take on as small or as large of a loop as you like. Parking is in various smaller lots scattered at the periphery, and the largest lot is on the north side of the lake near Austin High School. There aren't any restaurants or shops along the trail - it's scenic and understated. Water is provided by a local running supply store at points along the trail, but if you want to be sure to have water, bring your own. There is little to no lighting after dark, so complete your run/walk during the day.