Take a kayaking trip on the Highland Lakes, including Lake Marble Falls, during the winter. You might have the water to yourself. Staff photo by Jennifer Greenwell
The Highland Lakes offer more than spring and summer fun. The average daytime temperature during winter is 55 degrees, which makes spending time outside enjoyable just about every day, year-round. The key to a perfect winter outing is to prepare. Get a weather report before making plans and dress accordingly. Wearing layers that can be peeled off as the day grows warmer (and most do!) is highly recommended.
1. KAYAKING
Enjoy kayaking on any one of the Highland Lakes. At 60-70 degrees, water temperatures are a bit chilly for swimming but perfect for motor-less watercraft. Kayakers might find they have the lake to themselves and can lazily explore nooks and crannies at leisure. It’s best to wear quick-dry athletic wear and layers.
One important note: Always check wind speeds before going out on the water.
Places to put your boat in are:
- Lake Marble Falls at Johnson Park and Cottonwood Shores boat ramps
- Lake LBJ at Lake LBJ Marina and Kingsland Lions Park
- Inks Lake at Inks Lake State Park
- Lake Buchanan at Black Rock Park
- Lake Travis at Muleshoe Bend
2. SPELUNKING
Longhorn Cavern State Park is a constant 68 degrees year-round, making the caverns a cozy escape from chilly winter days. An added bonus: This outing is not weather-dependent. Visitors are even welcome to explore the caverns on rainy days. You won’t need an umbrella down under.
3. HIKING
Winter could be the best time to hike in Texas, weather-wise, for hiking Hill Country trails, whether tackling technical terrain or a flat, winding walk. Visit the 101 Hiking Guide for some of our favorite places to hike, including Inks Lake State Park, Doeskin Ranch at Balcones Canyonlands, Longhorn Cavern State Park, Pedernales Falls State Park, and Enchanted Rock State Park. Or, check out a list of great winter hiking trails.
4. FISHING
Fishing is another year-round activity, whether from a boat or on the shore. As long as you are dressed for the weather — AND find the right bait or tackle for the fish — you will most likely be hauling in some supper. Get some tips from a retired Highland Lakes fishing guide.
5. SIGHTSEEING
The Exotic Resort Zoo on the edge of Johnson City is a great place to visit and is open year-round. Enjoy a petting zoo after taking a tour that gets you up close and personal with zebras, llamas, kangaroos, and more.
6. DISC GOLF
The Highland Lakes is home to three fantastic public disc golf courses, which are free to play: West Side Park in Marble Falls and Haley-Nelson Park and the YMCA of the Highland Lakes, both in Burnet. In addition to the public courses, two private courses are available at Flat Creek Estate between Marble Falls and Lago Vista and Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery in Spicewood. As with any outdoor sport, cooler daytime temperatures and proper clothing are keys to comfort.
7. TREASURE HUNTING
Geocaching has been described as a modern-day treasure hunt. Although the treasure inside a geocache usually is of little value, it is the hunt that holds the challenge and excitement. Caches can be found across the Highland Lakes. Gold panning is another popular pastime. In the winter, you’ll want to wear waders and waterproof gloves.
8. BEER AND WINE TRAILS
Visit Highland Lakes area craft breweries and wineries. They offer indoor as well as outdoor areas to sample their goods.
9. PET-FRIENDLY PLACES
A dog walks into a bar … and it is perfectly fine. Spend a day with your furry friend in the Highland Lakes. Visit one of the many pet-friendly eateries in town before or after a romp at Ruff Park in Marble Falls. Located in West Side Park, Ruff is also a great place to hop on the Backbone Creek Hike-and-Bike Trail. The 1.3-mile trail meanders from West Side Park through the heart of Marble Falls before ending at Lakeside Park. The trail is largely paw-friendly with much of the path consisting of granite gravel.
10. EXPLORE SCIENCE AND HISTORY
Visit a museum this winter. The Science Mill in Johnson City is a hands-on, kid-friendly museum that promotes STEAM concepts. This is an educational and fun way to spend a frigid winter day, learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.
Those with an affinity for motorcycles will enjoy a few hours at Hill Country Motorheads vintage motorcycle museum in Burnet. This museum began as one man’s collection and contains a plethora of bikes and exhibits. You don’t have to have grease under your nails to be a motorhead. If your interests are more along the lines of history, visit The Falls on the Colorado Museum and learn about Highland Lakes history. Or, check out the LCRA Nightingale Archaeological Center to learn about much earlier Highland Lakes history.
