Hello!

This week was my last week in Austin. It’s been my home for the past two and a half months and it feels bittersweet leaving the city. I’m excited to start my final semester of school next month, but I will miss the Austin gems like natural spring pools, walking trails, and scenic views. Even though most of my work this summer was done in an office and through a laptop, I was still able to enjoy the outdoors in this great city. Below are a few of my favorite nature spots in Austin:

1. Barton Springs Pool

This natural spring-fed pool has been an oasis during these record-breaking hot summer days. The water stays a cool 68-70 degrees all year long thanks to the natural spring systems that supply the water for this natural pool. Tip: come between 5:00-8:00 am to get in free! 

Barton Springs Pool

2. Lady Bird Lake 

This popular spot can get crowded on the weekends and for a good reason. This “lake” is actually a reservoir of the Colorado River that runs through Texas. You can paddle board or kayak on the lake, stand on the bridges above to watch the famous Austin bats emerge at dusk, or use one of the many walking trails around. Tip: if you want to feel like a local, call this spot by it’s much less known name “Town Lake”.

Photo Credit: LoneStarkMike

3. Zilker Botanical Garden

This botanical garden sits on the Barton Creek Greenway and has multiple gardens and even a casts of dinosaur footprints! Take a walk through the fairy garden, check out the bonsai trees, or sit on a bench and watch the koi fish swim around. You can even catch a glimpse of downtown from the Japanese garden. Tip: check their website to see when their free admission day is!

Zilker Botanical Garden