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A SURVEY OF AUSTIN'S TOWN LAKE TRAIL USERS The trail is used for recreation, exercise, socializing, and to enjoy a beautiful natural setting in the middle of the City. See more on Austin's trails system. From the Austin Parks and Recreation Department
The Parks and Recreation Department conducted this survey in order to learn more about trail users, and how to improve their experience. The survey revealed that most people think the trail is safe, well maintained, and has adequate amenities. On the other hand, there is always room for improvement. The value of this survey is to learn how to make a good park better. User Characteristics
Most people that use the trail are locals, but the number of out of town visitors on the trail is significant. Almost as many women use the trail, as do men. The age range distribution is amazingly equal among adults. Fewer people under the age of 21 use the trail. This may be attributed to the fact that most teenagers are more actively involved with organized sports associated with school. Most people use the trail in the morning or after 5:00 in the evening. This is not surprising considering that the survey was conducted during one of the warmer times of the year. These times are also reflective of before and after work hours. Trail users regularly visit the trail on both weekdays and weekends. Most people feel comfortable using the trail alone, but many participate with a buddy. There are also a number of people that participate in group activities on the trail. The majority of people on the trail are runners or walkers. There is also a significant number that ride bikes or walk dogs. Many people offered that they would volunteer to help maintain and improve the trail. Trail Use by Location
The great majority of trail use occurs west of IH-35. Over three-fourths of all visitors to the trail enter at four popular locations. These include the entrances near Austin High, Butler Shores (Riverside and Lamar), Auditorium Shores, and near the Austin Nature Center. There are a number of factors that probably contribute to this practice. Those include ample parking, the feeling of safety in numbers, and the popularity of the social scene. A consequence of this use is trail crowding and conflict among different types of users. Conversely, the 4.8 miles of trail (including sidewalks) east of IH-35 are largely unused. Contributing factors include lack of clearly identified trailheads with parking, lack of good connections to the trails on the west side, and a perception tha |
The 10-mile long Town Lake Trail is one of Austin's favorite recreational
destinations. It is estimated that over 1 million people visit the trail
every year. The trail is used for recreation, exercise, socializing,
and to enjoy a beautiful natural setting in the middle of the City.
