Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell is a quick, rewarding hike to the highest accessible point in Austin at 775 feet above sea level. The climb is straightforward: 102 limestone steps from the parking lot to the summit, taking 10-15 minutes at a comfortable pace. At the top, a panoramic view of Lake Austin, the Texas Hill Country, and the downtown Austin skyline rewards the effort.

The staircase is hewn from limestone and flanked by juniper and live oak trees that provide partial shade. The steps are uneven in places and can be slippery when wet, so proper shoes are important. There are several natural rest points where the stairs flatten out, giving younger kids a chance to catch their breath. Most children ages 4 and up handle the climb without difficulty.

At the summit, large limestone outcrops provide natural platforms for viewing and photography. The vista faces west over Lake Austin, with the green hills rolling to the horizon. Kids love climbing on the rocks and posing for photos with the view behind them. The space at the top is open enough for families to spread out.

Mount Bonnell is best combined with other activities since the visit itself is 30-60 minutes. Popular pairings include Mozart's Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin Boulevard (10 minutes south), Mayfield Park peacocks (15 minutes), or a drive along scenic Loop 360. There are no facilities at Mount Bonnell. The park is free and open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM.