The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is a beloved Austin gem, encircling Lady Bird Lake and offering stunning views and recreational opportunities. Among its many highlights, the Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake stands out as a remarkable feat of engineering and a beautiful section of this iconic trail. Completed in June 2014, this impressive boardwalk provides a unique experience for trail users, seamlessly extending the Ann And Roy Butler Hike And Bike Trail over the water.
This $28 million project is an integral part of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, showcasing over 7,250 feet of scenic pathway. Built with over 300 piers and 2,200 pre-cast concrete deck planks, the Boardwalk is not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. For evening strolls or bike rides, 13,000 LED lights illuminate the path, creating a safe and enchanting atmosphere. Seven viewing areas are thoughtfully placed along the boardwalk, offering spots to pause, relax, and soak in the panoramic views of Lady Bird Lake and the Austin skyline while enjoying the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. The inclusion of an ADA-accessible pier and a trailhead restroom further enhances the accessibility and convenience for all visitors to this section of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
Adding an artistic touch to the natural beauty, the Boardwalk features Belting It Out, a public art installation by Ken Little. As you walk or cycle along this part of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, keep an eye out for 36 cast bronze, western-style belts integrated into the railings. Each belt is embossed with song lyrics from famous Texas singers and songwriters, celebrating the state’s rich musical heritage and adding a unique cultural element to your experience on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
Plan Your Visit to the Boardwalk on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
- Opening Hours: Embrace the trail at any time between 5am and midnight daily. Please note there is a curfew from midnight to 5am.
- Accessing the Boardwalk: Easily join the Boardwalk from multiple points. You can access it from the northeast corner of the American-Statesman parking lot, from the Riverside Drive sidewalk near Blunn Creek, at the northeast corner of Riverside and IH35, and at International Shores Park located at 1820 S. Lakeshore Blvd. All of these access points connect you directly to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
- Parking Options: Street parking is available on S. Lakeshore Blvd. between Pleasant Valley Road and Riverside. Alternatively, if you are planning to explore the entire Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail loop, consider parking at Festival Beach across the river or utilize any of the parking areas situated near the trail.
- Fishing Information: Fishing is permitted from the designated rest areas along the Boardwalk, providing an opportunity to fish while enjoying the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. However, fishing is not allowed directly from the main trail to ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety.
- Trail Maintenance: To report any maintenance concerns on the Boardwalk section of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, simply dial 311.
- Contact Information: For further inquiries, please contact Manuel Soza at 512-495-9163.
Download a detailed map of the Boardwalk section and enhance your next adventure on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
