A person wearing a backpack and holding a map stands under a wooden North South Trailway sign at the entrance to a hiking trail, surrounded by green trees and a trail rules sign.

Getaway - Party of One

April 2023

Gaining traction across generations, solo travel appeals to those seeking to escape routines and experience the world on their own time and in their own company. Whether you prefer complete solitude to avoid distractions or to sign up solo for a group tour, LCRA Parks offers a range of opportunities that will entice that solo traveler spirit.

A man wearing a helmet and blue shirt rides a fat-tire mountain bike on a dirt trail through a forest, with another cyclist visible in the background among the trees.

Trails and more trails

LCRA Parks’ trails – over 58 miles of them – offer an easy escape for independent explorers. From multiuse to ADA, we have a variety of trails for different users. That includes your pets, who can be off leash on LCRA Parks’ trails as long as they are under the owner’s direct control. Only 15 minutes outside of Austin, Texas, McKinney Roughs Nature Park offers tree-lined paths along the Colorado River. At Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, trails allow you to wind though the Hill Country by foot or bike. Rent a QuietKat electric mountain bike onsite for an exhilarating ride.

A collection of various seashells, starfish, and driftwood pieces arranged neatly on a wooden surface in sunlight. The shells vary in size, shape, and color, showcasing natural textures and patterns.

Beach vibes

The beach is always a way to break free from the mundane. As a solo explorer, you can find everything from relaxation to adventure at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, located where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of Mexico. For top-notch beachcombing, kayak across the river before or after low tide to find hundreds of untouched seashells. While you’re there, look for Texas’ state shell, the lightning whelk. This park also offers kayaking trails through its protected wetlands. Explore these waters to get up close to native wildlife in their natural habitats.

Open watercolor paint sets, used brushes, and a glass of orange water sit on a wooden table beside colorful painted papers, creating a vibrant and creative art scene.

Guided activities

While solo exploration can provide many benefits, sometimes, it’s equally energizing to have new experiences alongside new people. Visit the LCRA Parks events calendar to view upcoming park activities led by our experienced staff. Slower-paced events include arts and crafts and birding, while more adrenaline-filled experiences include UTV and kayaking tours.

Don’t waste time waiting for schedules to sync up – get out on your own and explore now!

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