Rising over 700 feet above sea level (775-785 depending on the source), Mount Bonnell is a natural limestone formation that stands about 200 feet above the surrounding area. Named in honor of George W. Bonnell, various stories circulate about lovers who leaped to their deaths from the peak.

Popular as far back as the 1850's and 1860's as a picnic spot, it's also a nice afternoon hiking area, or just a place to sit and admire the views of the Austin skyline and Lake Austin on the Colorado River.

Frank M. Covert, Sr. dedicated Mount Bonnell as a park on July 15, 1938. This engraved stone sits in the pavillion area atop the peak.

Lake Austin wanders off to the South.

With the exposed limestone of Mount Bonnell in the foreground, this nice summer day the boats and skiers on Lake Austin are just spots of white on the water.

Paths criss-cross Mount Bonnell. The vegetation includes cacti, sage, and wildflowers.

In some places, exposed rock forms natural steps. There are more evenly spaced man-made steps leading from the base to the peak that serve as the main entrance to the park.

Look east toward the UT Tower and downtown buildings forming the Austin skyline.

Points to keep in mind:

• Hiking.
  Street shoes or even sandals are not your best choice of footwear. There is no escalator and no paved sidewalks except for a bit of ground around the pavillion at the top.
• Weather.
  You can work up a sweat just climbing the steps (and they are shaded). Dress appropriately for the weather and tote a water bottle.
• Safety.
  Watch your footing, especially along the steep edges overlooking the water. Stay behind the fences or other markers and watch children closely. Be mindful of cactus and other plants as well as mother nature's other creatures such as ants, spiders, and snakes. Vandalism of parked cars is not uncommon. Keep your valuables at home.

• Extended Stay.
  If you plan to stay awhile and sitting on rocks is uncomfortable for you, bring along a cushion or a folding chair.
• Hours.
  The park is open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm. While the night view is nice, if you don't care for public displays of affection of the private kind you might consider a day trip instead or at least stay off the sidepaths and trails in the evenings.
• Access.
  There is a 100 step stone stairway to climb to the top. An alternate route north of the main entrance is a longer but not-quite-so-steep climb up the side of the hill. While a wheelchair could negogiate the area around the pavillion, there is no easy way to get a wheelchair up there.