Considered as the highest point in Austin at 770 feet, you don't really have to walk any steep hills to reach its top which attracts so many locals, tourists, cyclists, families and romantic couples.
Everyday hundreds of people come here to enjoy sunrise and sunset, to see the stars or simply to stop at any time to enjoy this unique panoramic view.
The visit to this park is quite short depending on your interest: if you just want to get to know the place and admire the views, one hour is enough time. But, if your plan is different, you can stay here as long as you want as there are plenty of trails to hike around here.
In fact, many people come to the place to exercise, meditate, do yoga, have a picnic or just to have a photo section.
The top of Mount Bonnell is actually called Covert Park, as part of the land was donated by Frank Covert but very few locals call it by name. It is known as Mount Bonnell in honour of George W. Bonnell who first visited the site in the 19th century and wrote about it in his journal. He was a commissioner for the Republic of Texas and later became the editor of the Texas newspaper. Although a long time has passed since these events, this place still has its charm and that is why it is appreciated other than for its amazing view on the Colorado river.
Once you climb to the top of Mount Bonnell you will see nature in all its glory along the Colorado River, also known as Lake Austin. If you look west, you'll see the Hill Country and, being at the highest point of the summit, if you look to the southeast, you will see the downtown skyline.
If you look further and it’s a clear day, you will also be able to see the beautiful riverside mansions representative of the area's lifestyle, the radio masts, as well as the famous Pennybacker Bridge in the distance.
Any time of the year is ideal to enjoy the views, but everything is much greener in spring and summer and, having moved here just about two months ago, I was glad to see it at its best.
What I have learnt here in Texas though is that, if you are an allergy sufferer, hiking along these paths can trigger your allergies during the spring.
Trails here are completely covered in weeds, wildflowers and gramineous plants so allergic people suffer here during the spring.
I heard that in the summer months, the temperature can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in July and August, but this should not stop you from visiting.
Although the trail is fairly short, if you decide to climb the stairs of more than 100 steps, you can be sure that you will reach the top with your heart racing, unless you are in excellent physical condition.
You can also walk the small paths that are along the main path, but it is important that you know that they are not authorized, so it would be at your own risk. The same if you look too much over the cliffs, there are no safety gates, so you must be very careful and even more so if you go with children.
