lady bird lake | Winter stroll at Lady Bird Lake

Lady bird lake. A brief context to set expectations.

Lady bird lake: Quick notes

January 04, 2026

During the Christmas break, we took a family walk at Lady Bird Lake, getting in some much-needed exercise ahead of decadent feasting.

We weren’t the only ones feasting. I spotted an egret hunting in the shallows…

…and then it got something!

I couldn’t tell if it was a fish or frog, but it was quickly gulped down.

The bald cypresses at the edge of the lake were at rusty orange peak, making a splash of fall color at Christmastime, as per usual in Texas.

The arching supports of the Lamar Bridge, reflecting in the water to complete a strand of oval beads, make a favorite view of mine.

Ducks were roosting there that morning.

I walked under the bridge, enjoying the framed view of Lady Bird Lake and the blue-and-white towers of downtown Austin, with the tree-shaded Hike-and-Bike Trail laid out at its feet. I love my city.

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by www.penick.net