Lady Bird Lake, formerly known as Town Lake, is a man-made reservoir situated in downtown Austin, Texas. The lake was created in 1960 by the construction of the Longhorn Dam on the Colorado River. The lake is owned and operated by the City of Austin and the Lower Colorado River Authority, and is primarily used for flood control. However, the lake has also become a popular recreational destination for locals and visitors alike. One of the most popular activities on Lady Bird Lake is boating. With the warm climate in Austin nearly year-round, the lake is often filled with kayaks, paddle boards, and rowing shells. The lake is a popular spot for college rowing team practices, with local schools like the University of Austin, as well as visiting schools like the University of Oklahoma and the University of Nebraska, utilizing the lake for their training needs. Visitors to Austin can rent kayaks or stand up paddle boards and enjoy a leisurely paddle along the lake's calm waters. For those who prefer a more guided experience, there are boat tour operators that offer scenic tours of the lake. Aside from boating, Lady Bird Lake is also home to the Lady Bird Hike and Bike Trail, a 10-mile trail that winds around the lake's perimeter and is considered to be the best place in town to walk, jog, run, or bike. The trail offers stunning views of downtown Austin and the lake itself, and is a popular destination for exercise enthusiasts and nature lovers. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for dog owners to get some exercise with their furry friends. In addition to its recreational opportunities, Lady Bird Lake is directly connected to many of the things considered "must-do's" in Austin, Texas. The lake is situated in the heart of downtown, making it easily accessible to many of Austin's popular tourist destinations. For example, visitors to the lake can take a short walk to the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, which is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening from March to November, the bats emerge from under the bridge and put on a stunning display as they fly out to feed. Lady Bird Lake is also located near the Texas State Capitol building, the Bullock Texas State History Museum, and the South Congress shopping and dining district, among other attractions. Overall, Lady Bird Lake is a vibrant and popular destination in the heart of Austin, offering a range of recreational activities, scenic beauty, and easy access to many of the city's top attractions. Whether you're a visitor to the city or a local looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Lady Bird Lake is a must-see destination in Austin.