Winter in the Highland Lakes
The best days of winter in the Highland Lakes feature bright sunshine, a chilly but refreshing breeze, the smell of fresh air and wood smoke, and an abundance of outdoor space to wander and enjoy the season. Cold, rainy days are few and far between, making the Highland Lakes an excellent choice for a winter vacation spot.
Fishing both from shore and by boat is excellent in January, February, and March, when many of the native fish are spawning.
Bird watching is another highlight of the winter months, when leaves no longer provide cover for the many feathered Winter Texans that call this area home for the season.
The most famous Winter Texans in the Highland Lakes are American bald eagles. The raptors nest and feed along the shores of Lake Buchanan and the arm of the Colorado River that flows into the lake. Take a ride on Vanishing Texas River Cruise’s special eagle watching trips for some of the best eagle viewing in the Highland Lakes.
Hiking along the many trails that can be found in city and state parks and state natural areas is another great way to spend a winter day in the Highland Lakes. Just off of the shore of Lake LBJ, you can take a ride up the state’s only lift-served mountain bike park to the top of Spider Mountain for a hike or bicycle ride down. Of course, you can always ride the lift back down as well. The views are spectacular!
And when it does get a bit too cold, or rains on your parade, don’t stop, shop! Each community has its own unique take on boutiques, gift shops, galleries and restaurants. Get to know the locals over a hot cup of coffee at any of a number of coffee shops in the area.
Add a road trip along the beer trail or wine-tasting rooms while you shop. You can even visit an amazing motorcycle museum and more. At night, check out the many live music venues, where you can hear some of the exceptional local talent play.
You can also pay a visit to Longhorn Cavern State Park, where it never rains — but does sometimes drip — in the ancient caverns below the limestone hills.
Although winter doesn’t officially end on the calendar until the spring equinox on March 20, in the Highland Lakes, wildflowers and events begin popping up all over.
Check the Highland Lakes of Burnet County interactive calendar for events you might like to visit while taking in the natural sights and sounds of the Central Texas Hill Country.
Browse our Where to Stay section for fun and fabulous places to lay your head while taking in the delights of the Highland Lakes of Burnet County in the winter. Lodging is available to fit all budgets.
