From the Editor: Highland Lakes

A trip to the Highland Lakes area west and northwest of Austin makes for an enjoyable weekend trip. Take the trip in late March or early April when the Bluebonnets are at the peak of their season and you will think that everyone who has a motorcycle that runs is out enjoying the spring weather. The same trip in the summer will place you at some of the best swimming holes in Texas – the Hamilton Pool, Barton Springs, Inks Lake and Wimberly.

The Hamilton Pool grotto area is one of the most scenic spots that I have seen anywhere in the world. Nearby the Paces Bend area on Lake Travis provides camping, picnicking and swimming at their best.

At Marble Falls feast on catfish at Dock’s or chicken fried steak at The Bluebonnet Cafe.

Lampasas – the northernmost point of this trip is a town of legendary springs and fabled healing waters. During the past two decades Llano has become important in the development of the wine industry in Texas. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Llano Estacado Winery and learn more growing grapes and producing wine in Texas.

Near Bend is the Colorado Bend State Park home to the highest waterfall in Texas. The bad news is that to get to the park you have to travel 10 miles of dusty, gravel road and the tours to the waterfall are limited, escorted and available on weekends only.

This issue barely scratches the surface on the many wonderful places to go and things to see in this region. Get on your bike and explore for yourself.