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 Town Lake Water control dams have been placed on the Colorado River to the northeast and southwest of downtown Austin, creating Town Lake. The term “lake” is somewhat of a misnomer here, as it retains the look of a river. Spanning six miles between the dams, Town Lake is perfect for either a quick tour of the city or a longer paddle by traversing multiple trips between the dams. With the exception of a couple of slow-moving tour boats, powerboats are not permitted on the lake, making it that much more enjoyable to paddle. Town Lake is easily accessible by walking from downtown or taking public transportation from most parts of Austin. The Capital Metro bus system runs to nearly all corners of the city and maintains a reliable schedule.  There
are two convenient put-ins on the north side of Town Lake; both can be reached
via the walking trail that encircles the lake. One put-in is a public boat
launch located east of downtown at I-35. Here you’ll find a boat ramp
and a large, grassy shore that’s perfect for loading boats and preparing
gear. Another put-in is located just west of downtown in front of Austin High
School on Stephen F. Austin Drive. A wide concrete drainage outlet slopes gently
into the lake and is accessible from nearby public parking lots. Both spots
offer great access to the lake, but the I-35 put-in has more room and usually
has fewer people.Putting in from Austin High and heading northwest, you’ll find yourself leaving downtown and paddling along the high bluffs that overlook Town Lake. Here, dense trees line the shores, and homes are built into the landscape. During the spring, a profusion of wildflowers bloom along the lake and all over Austin. The bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush splash broad strokes of brilliant colors onto this urban landscape and must be seen to be believed! Approximately two miles upriver from the put-in at Austin High is the Tom Miller Dam. At the foot of this massive dam is Red Bud Isle Park, a small island with rocky outcroppings at one end. Painted turtles frequently sun themselves here and jostle for position on the rocks. When little water is being released from the dam, the surface is typically calm and water levels are often too low to circumnavigate Red Bud Isle. During periods of heavy rain, however, large volumes of water are released and the current can be turbulent and swift. Paddling east from the Tom Miller Dam will take you back into town. Crossing under MoPac Boulevard (named after the Missouri Pacific Railroad, which runs parallel to it), you’ll likely encounter racing shells, as you will just about anywhere on the lake. The popularity of these fast, sleek boats is due at least in part to the University of Texas Crew—rowing competitively since 1969—and local rowing clubs.
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