One of the most impressive things about Texas is the landscape. It is a state filled with unbelievable outdoor beauty from desert scenes to lush lakefronts; even if only there for a moment, there is no possibility of not being awed by the fragrant and natural aesthetic perfection. Among the sites to be admired is Mount Bonnell, a limestone mountain that rises more than 700 feet above sea level and more than 200 feet above its surrounding area.
The formation was named in honor of George W. Bonnell. Bonnell moved to Texas in 1836 and spent his career publishing the Texas Sentinel, a well-known newspaper in the Austin area. However, before taking Bonnell's name, it is rumored that the mount was called Antoinette's Leap. Antoinette allegedly leapt from the top of the landmass to her death after Native Americans killed her fianc.
Since the mid-1800s, Mount Bonnell has been a popular location for picnics and family gatherings. Visitors are able to get their fill of hiking and find enjoyable places to sit and relax within the park. At the top sits a pavilion with an engraved stone commemorating the day Frank M. Covert Sr. dedicated the land as a park - July 15, 1938.
Lake Austin sits to the south of the Mount, and on clear days visitors can sit atop Mount Bonnell's peak watching as boats and swimmers make their way through the cool, relaxing water. Depending on how high up the visitor is, it may be difficult to distinguish between specs of light and individual people, but the resulting view will never change: absolute beauty.
To the East is a more urban view, with Downtown Austin and UT Tower. Those who choose to peer in this direction will realize just how close and yet far from the metropolis they are. They will see that it is possible to have the best of both worlds - urban business and natural quiet.
For those who would rather hike, than sit and soak up the view, there are plenty of criss-crossing trails, lined with beautiful vegetation. Cacti, sage and wildflowers line the walkways, and sections of exposed rock form natural steps. Man made steps can also be found on the mount; they lead from the base to the peak and serve as a main entrance to the park.
There are a few things you may want to consider when visiting the park. First, it is open from 5 am to 10 pm, no earlier and no later. Second, it is a 100-step climb to the top, something you may want to consider if you or your traveling partner is not in the most robust of shape. If you are willing to take the hike, make sure you wear appropriate footwear. It's easy enough to lose your footing; you don't need a flip-flop to help you along. Without a doubt you need to be sure to take plenty of water; it's not hard to work up a sweat and become unknowingly dehydrated.
Other than that, the only rules are to respect the park and to have fun. Mount Bonnell is one of the most beautiful parts of the city. Soak up the sun and enjoy the view.
Joe Cline is a professional real estate broker, investor, and REALTOR with RE/MAX Capital City, Austin, Texas.
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