There are few things that feel more “Austin” than a day spent on Town Lake aka Lady Bird Lake.
No matter what you call it or how you enjoy it, every Austinite can agree that the lake (or technically, reservoir) is an integral part of our beloved city. Here’s a little background on Austin’s most famous body of water.
Looking for rentals? Use this guide to find out Where To Rent Kayaks, Canoes, And Stand Up Paddleboards on Town Lake.
Contributed by Lainey Gonzales
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
The formal name of the reservoir is Lady Bird Lake. Back in 2007, city council renamed it to honor the late Lady Bird Johnson and her amazing efforts to improve the waterfront. However, old habits die hard and most locals still refer to it as Town Lake. Either way, people will know what you’re talking about regardless of what you call it.
Despite the name, it’s not actually a lake. Real lakes are formed naturally while reservoirs are made by dams. Town Lake is really just a dammed part of the Colorado River, which is what the city was originally built around back in 1839. Since it is a reservoir, there are lots of different streams that run into the water. This has nothing to do with why you shouldn’t swim in it though.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
Yes, you can find hundreds of paddleboarders and kayakers on the lake at any given time, but it’s not the best water to swim in (if you’re looking to swim, peep our guide on Swimming Holes). Swimming was banned back in 1964 because of some fatal drownings, not because of the widespread rumor that the lake is polluted.
Contrary to popular belief, the water still meets the right requirements for paddle boarding, boating, and kayaking which are all allowed and encouraged. Swimming, however, is still off the table. This is due to concerns with the current, flooding, and some harmful algae. If you do happen to get some water on you while you’re paddle boarding, be sure to rinse off after to avoid that awful swimmer’s itch circulating TikTok.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
Aside from the risky water quality, there are very few summer activities that rival the giant mass of paddle boarders that gather every Saturday in the middle of the lake near Lou Neff Point. Aptly called "Party Island", this floating community is like a mix of Spring Break and Summer Camp. It’s the perfect place to bring friends, meet new ones, and make memories that will outlast any sunburn.
If being on the water isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Town Lake. An incredible 10-mile trail surrounds the water, officially known as The Ann and Roy Butler Trail and Boardwalk. Tourists and locals alike can bike, run, or walk this trail every day while taking in some of the best views of the city. According to our city council, the trail receives over 2.6 million visitors a year!
Whether you venture to Party Island, rent out a boat with your friends, or take to the trail for a run or walk, Town Lake is a crucial part of our city’s vibrant ecosystem and culture. Keep Austin Weird, y’all!
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