Hiking Mount Bonnell

With scenic views of the Colorado River and downtown Austin, Mount Bonnell has been a popular hiking and picnicking destination since the mid-1800's. It has been on my list of things to see in Austin for months. Today seemed like the perfect day to make the hike so we loaded the buddies and their backpacks in the car and drove twenty minutes to our destination. We enjoyed the fresh air and and scenic views, even with 23 and 27 pounds strapped to our backs.

The Legends of Mount Bonnell:

- In the 1830's, the peak was nicknamed "Antonette's Leap" after a young woman jumped to her death to escape capture by Indians who had earlier murdered her fiance.

- Golden Nell and her husband Beau also leaped to avoid torture.

- And my favorite: A couple that climbs the steps of Mount Bonnell together once will fall in love, twice will become engaged, and three times will get married. We'll have to warn the buddies to be weary of girls that invite them on hiking dates.