stretching out in either direction. In late March every year, the ABC Kite Fest takes over Zilker Park. Its the highest point around Austin, and you can see the city center from the mountain. Once you get to the top, youll be in full sun most of the time. Well explain why everyone in, around, or passing through Austin should stop at Mount Bonnell. But, its another young woman whose name has become synonymous with. Here are the top 7 companies for kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. A historical marker was placed at Mount Bonnell in 1969 by State Historical Survey Committee. Standard dog owner considerations. It may be difficult finding a parking spot on the weekends, but usually one will open up if you wait just a few minutes. As a stunt in 1898, Miss Hazel Keyes slid down a cable stretched from the top of Mount Bonnell to south bank of then Lake McDonald below. 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. The family's historic cottage is still situated on the grounds, along with the picturesque gardens, stone walls and koi ponds. . Mount Bonnell Park Hotels Featured Hotels Near Mount Bonnell Park See the latest prices and deals by choosing your dates. There are several picnic tables located at the summit, and the hike isnt very long which makes it easy to bring a cooler. While this steep climb will get your heart pumping, its achievable for most people who are fit enough to climb stairs. ), 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! Was killed in camp on Rio Grande, Dec, 26, 1842. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. In July and August, temperatures often soar above 100 degrees F. On July 4, Mount Bonnell is a stellar vantage point for viewing several fireworks displays in and around Austin. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I would think sunset would be better because of the colors. The Upper Glen Rose contains the Upper Trinity Aquifer, which appears to have intra-aquifer groundwater flow with the Edwards Aquifer as water levels are at the same elevation. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. And General Sam Houston (the first president of the Republic of Texas and the man the city of Houston is named after) was also a frequent visitor. Parking is located in a small parking lot of Mt Bonnell Road and the trailhead starts from there. Yes! The views from the top are beautiful! It circles out to the left and right of the staircase. As it is today. Do not visit here. There are tables both at the pavilion that youll see immediately after climbing the staircase and tucked further back along the trail. With just a little preparation, you can plan a fun, stress-free day with a view. 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. The best way to get to the park is by car. Here, perched up almost 700 feet above sea-level, you can . How many steps to the view? . The terrain is also largely rocky and therefore sturdy shoes are recommended. 19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas! From Mt. Of course, if you have allergies, springtime on the hill can be challenging. Parking was a challenge and walking up 102 steps could be a challenge for young kids and some seniors. Parking for Mount Bonnell is located off of Mt Bonnell Rd., and parking lot access for Mayfield Park can be found off of W 35th St. At each location parking is free and portable restrooms are available at Mayfield Park. Legend has it that Wallace lived in a cave near the hill while he recovered from a serious illness. The well-traveled route also became the site of numerous battles between white settlers and native tribes. Shari Lefler is a writer, traveler, and condiment enthusiast. Then take a right on Mount Bonnell Road, and youll soon see the free parking area on the left. 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. The summit of Mount Bonnell is 775 feet above sea level. 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. ), Calling Mount Bonnell a mountain of any kind is. Get weird, drink brews & feel the heat of the city. Mount Bonnell was named for George W. Bonnell, Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Republic of Texas. 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. Formations within the Edwards Group include the Kainier Formation and the Person Formation. Bonnell. Public transport is scarce in this part of town, and although you can take the number 19 bus from the Texas State Capitol, you will have to walk 30 minutes from the bus stop to the base of the hill. More. On-leash dogs are allowed, but make sure they get plenty of water too. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Its a perfect date destination and is a great place to go with your dog or kids in tow. Before meeting and marrying George Sinks, chief clerk of the Post Office Department during the Republic years, she lived on West Pecan, present day 6th street, and later wrote "Our home was on the beaten track of the Indians into town from the pass of Mount Bonnell. Explore different ways to experience this place. 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. Plus, well share the best way to prepare for and spend your day on top of town. The view is great all year, but everything is much greener in spring and summer. The views from the summit are amazing and it only takes a few minutes to get to the top. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. . Online booking options. Our full day Small Group Whale Watching, Wildlife, Natural History, and Glacier Tour read more, John H. said: This was a first for me. Just a short hike up a couple of stories of steps and you will have a great view of the lake and the mansions along it. Make sure you pack plenty of water, a picnic lunch, sunscreen, a camera and wide-brimmed hats. On Fourth of July weekend, keep an eye out for the spectacular displays of fireworks that go off near downtown at sunset. This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of. We recommend booking Mount Bonnell tours ahead of time to secure your spot. This is a reference website. Head there at sunrise, sunset, or anytime in between to see how the cityscape changes with the sunlight. Private Lake Austin Boat Cruise - Full Sun Shading Available, Austin Boat Tour - Full Sun Shading Available, Best of Austin Tour W/ State Capitol & Mt. The parking area is usually unattended. Our car and 4 others had our windows broken on a short 20 min trip at 11am. We went during the week and it wasnt crowded. Or maybe the people doing the counting are always too tired to get it right by the time they reach the top. Outdoor, covered, indoor parking, car parks with CCTV or open 24/7. 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. You can even peek into the backyards of some of the homes along the lake, which is one of the most expensive, If you look down river to the southeast, you can take in. Frontiersman W.A.A. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. From there, if you turn left along the limestone path, youll quickly be greeted by a great view of the Austin skyline, and if you turn right, youll arrive at the best views of Lake Austin within minutes. As always, no matter what you do in Austin, wear sunblock, drink waterand, yes,you can also bring your dog. General George Custer (of Custers Last Stand fame) used to take his wife to, for picnics. [9] The marker reads: Rising 775 feet above sea level, this limestone height was named for George W. Bonnell, who came to Texas with others to fight for Texas independence, 1836. 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. Directions Advertisement. A posse was raised and gave pursuit. 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. In fact, he stayed away so long that his bride-to-be thought he was dead and married someone else. Its all steps! You can also bring your dog as long as they stay on-leash throughout your visit. Once you make it up the stairs, were sure youll feel like youre on top of the world. both to avoid the Austin heat and, in the evenings, to enjoy one of the best sunset views in Austin! Everlasting Elopements is one of the local wedding planner agencies that can assist in making arrangements to get married at the highest point in the city. 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. But, Mount Bonnell doesnt just scrape by on a technicality. More. Also featuring OneWheel and Manta5 Hydrofoil, **Special promotional discount** Register using code: YELP10TX Skyhawks provides a. Kids and veterans alike will enjoy the displays of tanks, helicopters, self-propelled guns and jets. Formations within the Trinity Group include the Hammett Formation, Cow Creek Formation, Hensel Formation, and Lower and Upper Glen Rose Formation. If you do, take an Uber or Lyft. Although you cant drive to the summit, Mt Bonnell Rd does get you very close. Once you arrive at Covert Park there is free parking and a 102-step staircase that will get you to the summit. It's difficult. What's the best way to see Mount Bonnell? Address 3800 Mt Bonnell Rd, Austin, TX 78731 Hours & More Information Parking lot access available off of Mount Bonnell Road. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. They need to be leashed, but fur friends are welcome at Mount Bonnell (ours loved it). Used to be a nice place to go but now the parking is covered with glass from cars getting broken into. Mount Bonnell, one of the most popular destinations for Austinites and visitors, is no exception. The official name of, Read More Austins 360 Bridge Overlook Complete GuideContinue, Are the grassy hills of Barton Springs Pool worth the money when you could just go to the free side of Barton Springs which is literally a stones throw away? The hill is not accessible for those in wheelchairs. Beautiful park looming almost 800 feet over Austin. Wilbarger says that at that time there were no houses there. Required fields are marked *. Curiously, some sources seem to disagree about the number of steps at Mount Bonnell. 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 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. This spiky pollen can cause problems even for people who dont have allergies the rest of the year. Mount Bonnell / b n l /, also known as Covert Park, is a prominent point alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River in Austin, Texas.It has been a popular tourist destination since the 1850s. Wilbarger then says "At one time the citizens came within sight of the redskins just before reaching Mt. Indoor exhibits feature old uniforms, weapons, personal items and photographs. Look forward to some incredible views and memorable little outdoor adventure. We saw at least two picnic tables. Please be aware that the staircase to the summit is not stroller-friendly and not wheelchair friendly. Bonnell". To get to Mount Bonnell, take 35 th Street west over MoPac past Camp Mabry. It is not long at all, the hard part is the stairs but u can avoid that by going through the farther entrance . Find a car park near you or elsewhere in the Tuusula area. . 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. The rental companies are located up and down the lake so regardless of where you are or which area you would like to explore, you should be able to find one that, Read More Top 7 Places to Rent Kayaks in Austin on Lady Bird LakeContinue, Your email address will not be published. On a clear day, the view from Mount Bonnell of thousands of kites is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. If you stay to watch the city light up, be sure to have a flashlight or your phone to light the way back down. Photos. Rising above everything else in the area at 775 feet is Austins highest point, Mount Bonnell. Its directly across the river from Westlake Hills, one of the, The best way to get to the park is by car. Mount Bonnell and Mayfield Park are both open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and are free to the public. Decorative stone arches also dot the property along with30 gardens throughout the park that are maintained by volunteers. This is where the Simpson girl was killed. 453 reviews of Mount Bonnell "What a view! Recommended. The skyline and nearby radio towers offer a view dotted with an array of steady lights and flashing beacons. As in how long? In 1842, a Mrs. Simpson living on that very same street as Julia Lee Sinks, West Pecan, about three blocks west of Congress, had two children a daughter 14, a son 12abducted by Indians while the children were in the adjacent "valley" (Shoal Creek). Address:3800 Mt Bonnell Rd Austin, TX 78731 Parking: Free parking along Mt. You can also bring your dog as long as they stay on-leash throughout your visit. I recommend visiting during the week, but its still worth it on the weekend if thats your only opportunity. Before you head to the park, make sure you use the restroom. Because the hill supports one of the few remaining populations of this plant, exploration beyond designated trails is strongly discouraged to protect the twistflower. Witness the historic cottage along the riverbank and don't miss the pond containing water lilies, huge koi fish, lotus flowers and turtles. Mount Bonnell at Covert Park3800 Mount Bonnell RdAustin, TX 78731, Call Austin Parks & Recreation at 512-974-6700. 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 blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of. Officially called Covert Park, the attraction here is Mount Bonnell, which visitors of all ages seek out for its scenic summit views. 7 Areas of the Austin Hike and Bike Trail You Need to Explore, Viewing the Bats In Austin | Everything You Need to Know in 2022, Austins 360 Bridge Overlook Complete Guide, Experience the Free Side of Barton Springs (AKA Barton Creek), Top 7 Places to Rent Kayaks in Austin on Lady Bird Lake. The trail is free to access and evenoffers free parking. Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park in this part of the country, is a prominent point alongside. So grab a few beers and a friend and enjoy the best views of Austin. Immerse yourself in 21 acres of well-maintained scenic hiking and walking trails, where visitors can admire the delightful and entertaining wildlife. Its a city landmark and remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Central Texas. On the weekends, you can find Kinsey enjoying one of Austin's many nature trails and exploring local eats on a patio around town. , and sunset is one of the busiest times on the hilltop. It could be that some people are unsure about whether to count some of the uneven, irregular steps. What is Mount Bonnell? The hill is most likely named after George Bonnell, a soldier who fought for Texas's independence and who later became the publisher of an important local newspaper the Texas Sentinel. 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). On a clear day, you can see for miles over the Texas Hillcountry from the highest point in the Austin area. 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. Worth it for the views. A trail along the base of the hill was once a popular route for Native Americans going to and from Austin. 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. It is advised you bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat for your Mt Bonnell hike. The view of downtown is also breathtaking on a clear day. Several mansions along Lake Austin can be seen from Mount Bonnell. It's a total of 106 steps to the lookout. Parking is prohibited after curfew. Mount Bonnell offers one of the best views in Austin. And youll be grateful to see the sun if you visit at sunrise or sunset. Free breakfast, free WiFi. There is no entrance fee and even the parking is free of charge. Whatever the reason for this discrepancy, this offers parents an opportunity to keep their kids engaged while making the climb. Photo by Seeveeaar. I recommend a flat sidewalk around a park instead; but if you specifically want to make the climb for the views, I would recommend taking a friend to assist you. 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?? There is a small shaded area on the viewing platform, but the spots with the best views are in direct sun. As for the Mount Bonnell Park hours, they are 5 a.m. to 10 p . 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. Mount Bonnell is ideally located for a quick urban road trip when visiting Austin. Short but sweet, Mount Bonnell provides some of the best hiking in Austin. Website. 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. read more, Austin's original eFoil lesson center. [7][8] Many other areas now in the city of Austin are also higher than Mount Bonnell, but few publicly accessible spots offer such a sweeping view of the downtown area. Improve this listing Tours & experiences Explore different ways to experience this place. As an Amazon Associate, Lone Star Travel Guide earns from qualifying purchases. 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. "Bigfoot" Wallace killed an Indian he met face to face while crossing a narrow ledge 50 feet above river, 1839. Its also the highest peak in or around Austin thats open to the public and easy to visit. The park charges no admission and is usually unattended. The hill was also used intermittently by Native Americans as a lookout point. Austin's own Mount Bonnell sets the stage for a dangerous conversation in Blood Simple, wherein Julien (Dan Hedaya) officially asks private detective turned hitman Visser (M. Emmett Walsh) to kill his wife and her lover. Bonnell, Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour, Small-Group Public BYOB Sunset Boat Tour on Lake Austin, 3 Hour Private Boat Charter on Lake Austin for up to 12 People, 2hr Boat Tour up to 10 on Lake Austin with Captain, 90-Minute Date Night Sunset Cruise on Lake Austin. [12] Spicewood Springs is located about 5 miles north of Mount Bonnell, at the present day intersections of Mopac Expressway and Spicewood Springs Road. See More . The park is officially open every day from 05:00am to 10pm. Bonnell was the Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Republic of Texas, and he later became the publisher of the Texas Sentinel newspaper. Mount Bonnell 4.5 1,638 reviews #23 of 353 things to do in Austin Lookouts Parks Open now 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Visit website Write a review About Beautiful park looming almost 800 feet over Austin. Yes, you can bring your dog to Mount Bonnell. Legend has it that Mount Bonnell was once called Antoinette's Leap, after a young woman who leaped to her death to avoid being captured by Native Americans who had killed her fianc. The mount provides a vista for viewing the city of Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills. Mount Bonnell is one of Austin's Historic Parks, and it's seen its share of history, legend, and local lore. Hampton Inn & Suites Austin at The University/Capitol, View all hotels near Mount Bonnell on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Mount Bonnell on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Mount Bonnell on Tripadvisor. If you want to get altitude in Austin, theres only one place to go: Mount Bonnell. Mount Bonnell is located inside Covert Park. Miss Hazel Keyes slid down a cable that ran from the. But, it does get crowded, so make sure you arrive early. Donate Volunteer This park is adopted! Its directly across the river from Westlake Hills, one of the best suburbs of Austin. Austin skyline is impressive and serene. Those with reduced mobility should thus check their accessibility options in advance to avoid disappointment. A couple short trails on and around the summit. [17] The lower Cretaceous Glen Rose Formation limestone outcrops to the west of the fault zone but is buried 1000 feet to the east. There are 2 ways to reach the overlook, you can walk up the stairs or take the trail. Mount Bonnell /bnl/, also known as Covert Park, is a prominent point alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. Head there at sunrise, sunset, or anytime in between to see how the cityscape changes with the sunlight. History buffs will enjoy seeing original documents such as after-action reports, field manuals, World War I card files and even soldiers personal journals. If you click through a link on Lone Star Travel Guide, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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. Its a city landmark and remains one of the most popular. When you reach the top of the 102-stair climb, you can rest at the view deck and pavilion before making your way back down. See options Some links in this post may be affiliate links. Once you get to the top, theres a short path of about 0.2 miles around the peak. Private Night Street Food Tour of Bangkok's Chinatown, See all 12 Mount Bonnell tours on Tripadvisor, See all Mount Bonnell experiences on Tripadvisor. Make sure you stick to the trail to protect the wildlife. The park and preserve is also home to around two dozen colorful peacocks; listen for their echoing calls and look for them wandering the grounds. He visited the site in 1838 and wrote about it in his journal. Suitable for a 1 year old and a expecting mother? Here, perched up almost 700 feet above sea-level, you can . Years after Bigfoot Wallace's refuge in the cave on Mount Bonnell, when asked why he had chosen the cave as a refuge, he responded "Well the cave was right on the old Indian trail leading down to Austin and besides, the cave was in the best hunting ground for bear in all this country.."[10], Julia L. Sinks, author and historian, was an early settler to Austin, arriving in the spring of 1840. Try to walk on the trail from the main entrance from the stairs and return from the south side. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. Remember 'feel the burn' good, 'hear the burn' bad! The legend dates to a couple from the 19th century, and the romance of Mount Bonnell endures in a modern form todaythe viewpoint is popular for engagement and maternity photos, as well as romantic picnic dates!