About 100 or so stairs to the top. The land was donated to the city in 1939 by the Covert family and was then officially designated as Covert Park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some links throughout this site are affiliate links. exit. The trail is free to access and evenoffers free parking. From directions, to opening hours and parking - we got you covered. Specific battles of the Texas Revolution, the Civil War and conflicts with Native Americans are covered in-depth. But, its another young woman whose name has become synonymous with. While this steep climb will get your heart pumping, its achievable for most people who are fit enough to climb stairs. The city park above Mount Bonnell belonged to the Covert family and was deeded by the family to the city in 1939. [6] City of Austin records, however, indicate that the city annexed for "full purpose jurisdiction" both Mt. There are a few areas where you can enjoy a lunch at picnic tables, but remember whatever you bring to your Mount Bonnell hike, you will need to carry it up the 100 or so steps. . Mount Bonnell Hike Review | Cond Nast Traveler In the mid-1800s Mormons built a mill on the Colorado river at foot of Mount Bonnell. Best time to see in during dusk and in dark. The best way to get to the park is by car. Nature buffs may want to take a closer look at the hillside itself, which is dotted with sprawling oak trees, persimmon, Ashe juniper and mountain laurel (whose blue springtime flowers smell like grape Kool-Aid). The Simpson girl was killed, but the boy survived and was later "traded off to some Indian traders, who returned him to his mother". It is advised you bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat for your Mt Bonnell hike. Property Submission: Rules & Requirements, Texas Hill Country et excursions au dpart d'Austin, Texas Hill Country und Tagesausflge von Austin aus, Texas Hill Country y excursiones de un da desde Austin, Texas Hill Country e passeios de um dia saindo de Austin. Difficulty: Easy Distance: 0.5 Miles Short and easy hike and great place to watch the sunset over the city of Austin. The top of Mount Bonnell is actually called Covert Park (much of the land was donated by Frank Covert in 1938), but few locals refer to it by that name. We went during the week and it wasnt crowded. Find a car park near you or elsewhere in the Tuusula area. Yes! What is now a popular destination for tourists, photographers, couples and families was once a wilder, more rural part of Austin. A happier but equally romantic piece of local legend says that a couple will fall in love on their first visit to Mount Bonnell, get engaged on their second visit, and get married on their third making this local landmark an ideal date destination. The workers follow broad guidelines provided by park staff but also add their own touches to each of the garden plots, which means they're always changing and will include a mix of native plants and exotic species. Standing on the concrete picnic table (to the left when you get up there) with the city and campus view in the background will be priceless!! Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park in this part of the country, is a prominent point alongside. Also featuring OneWheel and Manta5 Hydrofoil read more, Navan J. said: We had a wonderful experience with Dvorak. The best way to explore Austin, TX like a local, is by getting out on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. "Bigfoot" Wallace killed an Indian he met face to face while crossing a narrow ledge 50 feet above river, 1839. [16] There is little contemporaneous evidence to support either derivation of the name. I've never done anything like this before so I read more, Come on in or schedule your next event! Bonnell, but the Indians, after arriving at the place, passed on just beyond to the top of the mountain, which being rocky, the citizens lost the trail and were never able to find where the savages went down the mountain". Moved in 1839 to Austin; there published the "Texas Sentinel", 1840. Robert is a sixth-generation Texan who has lived in Austin for more than 20 years, leading editorial staffs at Citysearch, Hispanic Magazine and Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine. We recommend booking Mount Bonnell tours ahead of time to secure your spot. The views from the top of Mount Bonnell are so spectacular that the hill has been a sightseeing destination since the 1850s. Hotels near Mount Bonnell Park, Austin - Booking.com MOUNT BONNELL - 1127 Photos & 453 Reviews - Yelp In the cooler months, serious fitness buffs use the long stairway for workouts. The staircase also has a railing for visitors who need the extra support. Plus, well share the best way to prepare for and spend your day on top of town. As in how long? It's not much of a hike although there was one incident where the paramedics had to come up the mountain to rescue someone who may have overexerted herself on the way up. While this park no longer overlooks purely hills of endless green, one still has great views of impressive homes built into the hillside, sprawling Downtown Austin, Pennybacker Bridge and stunning Lake Austin. The view is great all year, but everything is much greener in spring and summer. Mount Bonnell in Austin, TX | Tips, Hours & Accessibility Info. Here, perched up almost 700 feet above sea-level, you can . It was worthwhile, but I wouldn't plan on spending more than 30-45 minutes here. Take your electronics, purses and wallets with you! Bonnell Drive, Austin, TX, 78731, United States Timings: 24-hrs Details Phone: +1-5129746700 Time Required: 02:00 Hrs Tags: Trail, Park, View Point, Scenic Drive, Walking Area, Lake, Rock Climbing, Hill, Picnic Spot, Nature, Bird Watching, Green House, Landmarks, Parks Mount Bonnell, Austin On the weekends, it can become extremely busy and you may have a difficult time finding parking. As it is today. Though visiting Mount Bonnell is popularly described as a hike and there are trails to walk on, Mount Bonnell is really more of a viewpoint than a true hike of any kind. This way you will be able to get 360 degree view of the city and exquisite communities on the banks of the lake. Bonnell was the Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Republic of Texas, and he later became the publisher of the Texas Sentinel newspaper. Shortly after, Mount Bonnells beautiful view made it a favorite place for both locals and tourists to visit, and it is considered Austins oldest tourist attraction. The hill can get a little crowded around sunset, but you can stick around after dark for stargazing. The park is officially open every day from 05:00am to 10pm. Kids and veterans alike will enjoy the displays of tanks, helicopters, self-propelled guns and jets. Was killed in camp on Rio Grande, Dec, 26, 1842. Mount Bonnell Park Our full day Small Group Whale Watching, Wildlife, Natural History, and Glacier Tour read more, John H. said: This was a first for me. It's not much of a hike although there was one incident where the paramedics had to come up the mountain to rescue someone who may have overexerted herself on the way up. At 784 feet above sea level, Mount Bonnell is the highest point within the Austin city limits. If you like views from up top and dont want to hike long trails, THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU! Free breakfast, free WiFi. More. Mount Bonnell (Austin) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor There are several picnic tables on the summit making it a great place to bring the family for a short day trip. See options She and her husband expanded the quaint cottage, designed beautiful gardens, built a stone wall and installed water features. Suggest edits to improve what we show. If youre driving from the downtown area, take 15th street west to the MoPac Highway, proceed on MoPac (aka Loop 1) north to the 35th Street exit. Today, the cemetery has more than 20,000 burials on 40 acres. A posse was raised and gave pursuit. In fact, he stayed away so long that his bride-to-be thought he was dead and married someone else. There are no public restrooms in Covert Park. General George Custer (of Custers Last Stand fame) used to take his wife to, for picnics. Bonnell they stopped at Spicewood Springs, "which is situated in the edge of the mountains". Book direct at the Comfort Suites Buda - Austin South hotel in Buda, TX near University of Texas and Historic Stagecoach Park. in 8 reviews Show more review highlights Location & Hours 3800 Mt Bonnell Rd Get directions If Mount Bonnell was on an Indian trail into Austin, it was also a trail out, as illustrated in another story included in Wilbarger's book, Indian Depredations of Texas. ), 17 Epic East Texas Towns + Cities to Visit. While there are no large carnivores around these days, frontiersman Bigfoot Wallace described Mount Bonnell in the 1840s as one of the best places to hunt bear in the country. And General Sam Houston (the first president of the Republic of. Mix it up and find your own limits. The Upper Cretaceous rock units confine the Edwards Aquifer within the group. Enjoy the natural and tranquil beauty of Mayfield Park by exploring the 23 acres of colorful vegetated gardens. The Republic of Austin. Austin, Texas (Travis County) Explore different ways to experience this place. All rights reserved. Combined with the staircase, it makes for a. . COVERT PARK AT MOUNT BONNELL - 187 Photos & 43 Reviews - 3800 Mt - Yelp It takes climbing 106 steps up a historical flagstone staircase to reach the top of Austin's famous 775 foot tall promontory, Mount Bonnell. has it that a woman named Antoinette once threw herself off, A happier but equally romantic piece of local, says that a couple will fall in love on their first visit to. Our guides were Olivia and read more, **Special promotional discount** Register using code: YELP10TX Skyhawks provides a read more, Our full day Small Group Whale Watching, Wildlife, Natural History, and Glacier Tour, Austin's original eFoil lesson center. They need to be leashed, but fur friends are welcome at Mount Bonnell (ours loved it). If you walk the short path around this limestone peak, you can get a 360 degree look at the surrounding area. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. The entrance staircase is located right next to the parking and will take you to the Mount Bonnell viewpoint within minutes. The Hammett and the lower portion of the Upper Glen Rose act as confining units (or aquitard) for the Middle Trinity Aquifer. Photo Credit: Visit Austin. You may want to carry a pad or a small chair up the hill with you since most of the seating options are just large boulders. 18 Amazing Things to Do in Austin With Kids, The Barton Springs Pool: Hot Tips to Stay Cool at the Pool. Covert Park at Mt. Bonnell - Austin Parks Foundation On the way to or from Mount Bonnell, consider making a stop at Mayfield Park. Also featuring OneWheel and Manta5 Hydrofoil, **Special promotional discount** Register using code: YELP10TX Skyhawks provides a. Actually located in Covert Park, Mount Bonnell is one of thehighest points in Austin at 781 feet! Mount Bonnell is ideally located for a quick urban road trip when visiting Austin. ", "History of annexation actions taken by the City of Austin", "Geophysical mapping of Mount Bonnell fault of Balcones fault zone and its implications on Trinity-Edwards Aquifer interconnection, central Texas, USA", "A brief description of the Cretaceous rocks of Texas and their economic uses", Early 20th century photographic postcards of Texas places at the University of Houston Digital Library, Mount Bonnell Local Community-Run Website, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building, Advanced Technology Development Facility (ATDF), Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Texas Federation of Women's Clubs Headquarters, Peter and Clotilde Shipe Mansbendel House, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mount_Bonnell&oldid=1147704245, National Register of Historic Places in Austin, Texas, National Register of Historic Places in Texas, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 4.0, This page was last edited on 1 April 2023, at 16:59. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This hilltop is the highest point in Austins city limits, and it will give you a birds eye view of the city skyline, Lake Austin, the Pennybacker bridge, and the surrounding hill country. By most definitions, the 775-foot peak would qualify as a large hill. The mountain is open during daylight hours, so whether youre looking for a romantic spot to enjoy a sunset supper or a place to have a family picnic, Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot. Drive slow during ascend so that you can appreciate these houses. Mount Bonnell is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Austin, and sunset is one of the busiest times on the hilltop. Originally purchased by Allison Mayfield as a summer home for his family in 1909, Mayfield Park has come to welcome many more visitors over the years. The hill is also referred to by the moniker Antoinettes Leap. . The knolls beyond the quarry branch were interspersed with timber, and sometimes though not often, we would see galloping past the open spaces beyond the blanketed Indian. See options Full view Go early or mid-day during the week. Beautiful park looming almost 800 feet over Austin. Most people hike up, take a few photos, have a snack and head back down. Its the highest point around Austin, and you can see the city center from the mountain. Visiting Mount Bonnell & Mayfield Park | Visit Austin Mount Bonnell - Austin's Highest Point & Popular Tourist Attraction Do not visit here. While its a fairly easy climb straight up the side of the hill, some of the steps are uneven, so make sure you watch your step. Legend has it that an excursion to the place in the 1850s inspired the popular song "Wait for the Wagon and We'll All Take a Ride". If youre in gods shape it should be easy. Covert Park At Mount Bonnell 43 reviews Unclaimed Hiking, Parks Open 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM See hours See all 188 photos Write a review Add photo in 7 reviews where I called home for 40 days was lovely:) I could've enjoyed a more extended view though?? Mount Bonnell was named for George W. Bonnell, Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Republic of Texas. If you are a pet owner feel free to bring your furry friends to Mount Bonnell, but unfortunately no pets are allowed at Mayfield Park. It has been a popular tourist destination since the 1850s. The view at the top is awesome and especially at sunset. The land was donated to the city in 1939 by the Covert family and was then officially designated as Covert Park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is not much shade in this area and it is exposed to the sun, therefore it is suggested to bring sun protection. Covert Park, or Mount Bonnell Park as it is commonly known, can be found northwest of Downtown Austin between the Bright Leaf State Natural Area and the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve. These two daredevils prove that Austin has always been weird! Sometimes I will leap up as fast as I can, other times, jog up. Its also the highest peak in or around Austin thats open to the public and easy to visit. Believed to have been located on an Indian trail, the viewpoint overlooks Lake Austin and may have served as a defense point for the city in the early 1800s. Suitable for a 1 year old and a expecting mother? Here are the top 7 companies for kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. You can also pack a picnic for your day just keep in mind that youll have to carry everything up the stairs and back down again. The mountain is open every day of the week but has a curfew from 10 pm to 5 am. Yes, on leash and picking up any remains. Kerr is quoting materials from the Julia Lee Sinks Papers, 1817, [ca. After her passing, the 23-acre estate was gifted to the City of Austin in 1971 and designated as Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve. Austin loves fireworks displays and often features them at a number of major events, ranging from auto races to football games. The well-traveled route also became the site of numerous battles between white settlers and native tribes. read more, Austin's original eFoil lesson center. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. There are a couple of picnic tables and spots to sit down. Moxy Austin - University Hotel in Central Austin, Austin (2.9 miles from Mount Bonnell Park) Moxy Austin - University features a fitness center, garden, a shared lounge and restaurant in Austin. It overlooks water that runs East/west so either would work. There are no public restrooms in the park. Gorgeous!! 29. The hike to the summit consists of 102 stone steps and takes about 5 minutes to complete. If you look down river to the southeast, you can take in views of the city. If you can handle walking up quite a few steps and walking on rough terrain this is a must do quick thing to do. Rules: Dogs are allowed on leash. Mount Bonnell Park Hotels Featured Hotels Near Mount Bonnell Park See the latest prices and deals by choosing your dates. It was likely used for early Maypole celebrations, and in 1898, it was the site of a daring stunt. Because the hill supports one of the few remaining populations of this plant, exploration beyond designated trails is strongly discouraged to protect the twistflower. After taking a left at the fork onto Old Bull Creek Road, take a right on Mount Bonnell Road and move up the hill, where you will then see parking to your left. If you walk the short path around this limestone peak, you can get a 360 degree look at the surrounding area. Bonnell and down being one set. With just a little preparation, you can plan a fun, stress-free day with a view. Make sure you pack plenty of water, a picnic lunch, sunscreen, a camera and wide-brimmed hats. Nothing too strenuous; but, need to be careful on the side trails. The top of Mount Bonnell is actually called Covert Park (much of the land was donated by Frank Covert in 1938), but few locals refer to it by that name. Barton Creek which is often referred, Read More Experience the Free Side of Barton Springs (AKA Barton Creek)Continue, Looking to rent kayaks in Austin, TX on Lady Bird Lake? George W. Bonnell was publisher of the local paper The Texas Sentinel and was prominent in early Texas and Travis County (Austin) affairs after the War for Independence. There is a shady pergola at one of the lookouts, but overall the lack of shade helps provide unobstructed views. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our privacy policy. Caves are common throughout the Austin area. The wide, limestone-paved staircase is serene and, blessedly . Bonnell and Mt. Standard dog owner considerations. Once you get to the top, it is an amazing view of an unknown-to-me river and the glorious hills directly in the foreground. P.O. Once you get to the top, it is an amazing view of an unknown-to-me river and the glorious hills directly in the foreground. In March, look south for hundreds of colorful kites floating above Zilker Park for the annual ABC Kite Festival. As an Amazon Associate, Lone Star Travel Guide earns from qualifying purchases. The park charges no admission and is usually unattended. If you do, take an Uber or Lyft. ), How to Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, TX (+ Photos & FAQ), 10 Great Texas Gulf Coast RV Parks (Beach Trip Ideas), 10+ Tips for Round Top, TX Shopping Trips (Antiques Fair Advice! National Park Hike & Finnish Smoke Sauna Experience with Campfire Lunch. No endorsement or quality judgment is implied. Bring your camera, and be sure to tag @VisitAustinTXor use#TrueAustin in your latest outdoor adventure. 1. Bonnell Rd. While part of the allure of Austin includes more than 300 days of sunshine per year, those visitorswith more urban experiencemight find themselves intimidated by the unbelievable variety of outdoor activities that the city has to offer. There is a shady pergola at one of the lookouts, but overall the lack of shade helps provide unobstructed views. It was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1969, bearing Marker number . After you exit, youll turn left onto 35th Street. So, Mount Bonnell wins the title. You can also get a glimpse of the lifestyles of Austins rich and famous. This site is made possible thanks to the generous support by our sponsors: Explore Events, Music, Restaurants, Hotels, Things To Do & More in Austin, TX. From Mt. All of this is free and, because of the short hike, is great for all ages! More. In Central Texas millions of . We saw at least two picnic tables. Completed in 2016, the Austin Boardwalk allows you to walk out over Lady Bird for about half a mile along the south, Read More The Austin Boardwalk at LadyBird LakeContinue, Everything is bigger in Texas, including the urban bat colonies! Mount Bonnell is one of Austin's Historic Parks, and it's seen its share of history, legend, and local lore. Pet parents who bring their furry friend along for the hike should also bring: You may also want to bring dog boots if your pet is trained to wear them. You can even peek into the backyards of some of the homes along the lake, which is one of the most expensive places to live in Austin. Spending a day on top of Mount Bonnell is one of the best free activities in Austin. There isnt anything to do up there but look around. from . The hike to the summit consists of 102 stone steps and takes about 5 minutes to complete. A couple short trails on and around the summit. The trail loops back to the parking lot down a very moderate decline on an adjacent side of the mountain. Because the hilltop is almost entirely rocky terrain, make sure you wear shoes with good traction, and be particularly careful if the ground is wet. in 2 reviews As you look down from the main viewpoint, youll have a picture-perfect view of Lake Austin, along with the waterfront mansions that line it, and in the distance, youll be able to see the 360 Bridge. As someone who has been hanging out in the Barton Springs area for years now, I like both sides. Donate Volunteer This park is adopted! Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Youll need to arrive at least a couple of hours before showtime to get one of the prime viewing spots. Austin, Texas 78711 Address The street address for Mount Bonnell is: Mount Bonnell at Covert Park 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd Austin, TX 78731 Contact Number Call Austin Parks & Recreation at 512-974-6700 Mount Bonnell Hours The park is officially open every day from 05:00am to 10pm. After taking a left at the fork onto Old Bull Creek Road, take a right on Mount Bonnell Road and move up the hill, where you will then see parking to your left. Mount Bonnell is located on the eastern bank of Lake Austin at 3800 Mt. 453 reviews of Mount Bonnell "What a view! Since this area of town is not well-served by the citys bus system or any other type of mass transit, youd be better off using a ride-hailing service or taking a cab. Its the perfect spot to get amazing photos of Austins natural beauty and enjoy the sunset if you have time to spare. Mount Bonnell stands at 781 feet above sea level and allows for amazing views in all directions. Calling Mount Bonnell a mountain of any kind is quite a stretchits a mere 775 feet tallbut it is often considered the tallest point within the Austin city limits, and home to one of the best views in the city. Once you make it up the stairs, were sure youll feel like youre on top of the world. Two words: The view. Although Mount Barker located just two miles north of. You will have the best cardio of your life. The mount provides a vista for viewing the city of Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills. If youre looking for a great view of Austin, Texas, and dont mind a little bit of a hike, Mount Bonnell is definitely worth a visit. How far is this hike and how long does it take? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Description This is a short loop in a small park that features staircases leading to beautiful views of the surrounding area. If youre driving from downtown Austin take 15th street west to the MoPac Highway, proceed on MoPac (aka Loop 1) north to the 35th Street exit. And if youre not in tip-top shape, remember to pause periodically to catch your breath. The houses on the lake and in the route are beautiful. The view of the iconic Pennybacker Bridge over Lake Austin is the subject of many tourist photos. Hike the 106 limestone steps to make it to the top of one of the highest points in Austin; it's definitely worth the workout because the view is breathtaking. One of the best ways to find things to do, places to see and happenings in Austin TX. Immerse yourself in 21 acres of well-maintained scenic hiking and walking trails, where visitors can admire the delightful and entertaining wildlife. Its also the highest peak in or around Austin thats open to the public and easy to visit. The trail loops back to the parking lot down a very moderate decline on an adjacent side of the mountain. A historical marker was placed at Mount Bonnell in 1969 by State Historical Survey Committee. I am already envisioning taking graduation pictures of my son up here in 2 years. [17] The lower Cretaceous Glen Rose Formation limestone outcrops to the west of the fault zone but is buried 1000 feet to the east. At 785 feet above sea level, Mount Bonnell rises over Lake Austin, visible from a scenic limestone overlook and the half-mile trail that follows the river. The limestone steps are uneven, so the staircase isnt stroller-friendly. It only took us about 10 min to climb all the stairs to the top. Mount Bonnell is one of Austins Historic Parks, and its seen its share of history, legend, and local lore. 19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas! If you drive, youll take the MoPac Expressway to the 35th Street exit. In late March every year, the ABC Kite Fest takes over Zilker Park. If so less than 10 min. Property Submission: Rules & Requirements, Texas Hill Country et excursions au dpart d'Austin, Texas Hill Country und Tagesausflge von Austin aus, Texas Hill Country y excursiones de un da desde Austin, Texas Hill Country e passeios de um dia saindo de Austin. As a native Texan, and having spent time in both East and West Texas, Kinsey knows Austin is the perfect balance of the two regions and one of the best spots in the state. Here, perched up almost 700 feet above sea-level, you can . Parking was a challenge and walking up 102 steps could be a challenge for young kids and some seniors. There is parking along the street.