Fifty years since the development of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail first kicked off in Austin, the trail has become one of the city's top natural attractions and will soon have its final gap closed for a continuous loop around Lady Bird Lake.
On Dec. 10, city officials, representatives of The Trail Foundation nonprofit, and family members of both former Mayor Roy Butler and Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson—two of the project's original sponsors—celebrated the 50th anniversary of the first tree plantings on the recreational path. Since Johnson watched over the placement of a handful of crepe myrtle trees near South First Street in December 1971, the hike and bike trail has seen decades of additions and improvements to its 10-mile run around Lady Bird Lake that now draws more than 4.5 million visitors annually, according to the trail nonprofit.
"Over the past 50 years, the hike and bike trail has become a beloved amenity for our community to exercise, immerse themselves in nature and stay connected to many areas of the city. Simply put, Austin would not be Austin without this incredible asset," District 9 Council Member Kathie Tovo said in a statement. "It’s an honor to celebrate this exciting milestone alongside the many community leaders, volunteers and organizations who work tirelessly to expand and maintain the trail."
