Scenic Drive to Mount Bonnell, Austin

The short climb to Mount Bonnell winds up through the wooded hills above Lake Austin to the city's highest point — a clifftop with the river curving far below.

Austin · Drive · about 15 min · 4 miles · Pleasantness: High

Why this route is pleasant

  • Winds up through the wooded hills west of the city
  • Ends at Austin's highest overlook
  • Cliffs above the blue of Lake Austin
  • Oaks, cedar and limestone the whole climb
  • A short, classic Austin sunset spot

What you'll see

  • Lake Austin curving through the hills below
  • Hill Country rolling away to the west
  • The downtown skyline to the southeast
  • Cliffside homes tucked into the canyon

Best time to go

Sunset — climb the steps at the top for the full view as the light goes.

Open this route in Pleasant Routes · More Austin routes · All cities