Just because we’re having a socially distant summer doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a date night in Austin!
We asked Mariel Fernandez to share some date ideas with us. This week she shows us how to have a fun and fit date at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail!
If you’re looking to be a tad bit healthier and more active, we feel you. Quarantining at home can have anyone snacking a lot more than normal. So if you want to get back into some kinds of healthy habits and fitness then this date is for you.
For this week’s date, we dusted our bikes off and broke them out of their garage coma. There are so many trails to explore in Austin. If you’re a beginner to biking, definitely check out this post. And here are some of our favorite nature trails period. Oh, and PS, these are trails where dogs can run free.
But now, back to biking!
We picked a trail in Austin through @tpwd.texas.gov so we could check for temporary closures, adjustments ,and alerts because – safety first, y’all! We decided to drive to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. This trail is over 10 miles long so there’s a lot of land to cover and enough space for everyone to walk, jog, or bike while following the six foot social distancing protocol.
Arrive early because the trail gets busy on the weekends and afternoons. We parked at Eilers Park (located at 401 Deep Eddy Avenue). You can also find trail parking near Veterans Park.
Leaving the car there, we took the bikes down and pedaled our way to the trail. It’s the perfect way to enjoy downtown views and get your fitness on!
Don’t forget to bring water to hydrate and, of course, a mask for when you are close to other trail users.
Quick Facts About the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail:
- Access: The trail can be accessed at several points – the northeast corner of the American-Statesman parking lot, off the Riverside Drive sidewalk at Blunn Creek, from the northeast corner of the Riverside and IH35 intersection and at International Shores Park (1820 S. Lakeshore Boulevard)
- Hours: 5 a.m. – Midnight
- Dogs OK, Bikes OK, Running and walking OK
- Cost: Free
- For a map of the trail, check out this link.
After our biking adventure, we were too tired to cook so we ordered from Bento’s Kitchen which is a small local meal prep business that specializes in healthy Asian cuisine. Bento’s Kitchen caters to your diet needs while still providing that Asian flavor you crave. Pro tip: try our fave, the miso ginger salmon and scallion beef!
And there you have it – a socially distant date idea that fills your bellies and your spirit!
Be sure to check back here on Austin.com for a new socially distant Austin date idea every Friday! And follow Mariel on Instagram for more food features and Austin activities.
