101 Fun Things To Do in the Highland Lakes - Fall/Winter 2013 by 101 Corpus Christi

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5 Lakes Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fishing spot for everyone in the Highland Lakes.

Fall/Winter events calendar inside!

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Blanco Buchanan Dam Burnet Fredericksburg Horseshoe Bay Johnson City Kingsland Lampasas Llano Marble Falls Mason Smithwick

Full park listings

FALL/WINTER 2013

414 ACRES CK RANCH

Located on FM 2147 just west of Marble Falls and adjacent to Horseshoe Bay, this beautiful ranch is in one of the most desirable areas in all of the Hill Country. Being entirely high fenced makes this a premier recreational property that has great development potential. A Fredericksburg style rock home built in the 1800’s, fantastic Lake LBJ views, year round springs and a variety of mature trees add to the beauty and charm of this ranch. Will divide into 240 or 174 acres.

99 ACRES IN BLANCO COUNTY

This ranch has been cleaned up of underbrush leaving an oak covered game refuge complete with a new barndominium. The main barn is 40x60 with 2 overhangs measuring 60x22 each. The front canopy is 40x12 creating the front porch for the 1,100 square foot apartment. Located 4 +/- miles from the new Scott & White Regional Medical Center. $950,000

$3,933,000

247 ACRES SAWYER RANCH

A cattle and hunting ranch with plenty of potential along the high growth Hwy. 29 corridor. The 247 acres is three miles east of Burnet with city zoning along the 3,400 feet of highway frontage. The remainder of the land is unrestricted use with scattered live oaks and elm on relatively flat terrain. There is rail access along the north boundary. Improvements include a 1,728 square-foot house, garage, workshop, two water wells, corrals and barn. $1,300,000

HOME ON 62 ACRES – STONE MOUNTAIN

This gentleman’s ranch is located in the exclusive Stone Mountain development just outside of Marble Falls. An exquisite 3,772 sq. ft. custom home perched on a hill highlights this property. The approach to the home from the gated entry is fabulous. And it only gets better. The home overlooks a lush coastal field and pond on the front half of the property. From there, the view extends towards distant hills 30 miles to the south. While unique details highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of the home, the best part is what’s outside. There is ample outdoor living, including a veranda with a wood burning fire place. Large oak trees provide plenty of shade and are a perfect accent to the stunning views. Additionally, a 1,600 sq. ft. barn is close proximity to the house. The back half of the property is densely wooded with lots of oak and a second pond. The property has both community water and a private water well. This is truly a “must see to believe” type of property. $1,700,000

194 ACRES – TURKEY HOLLOW RANCH

The open waters of Lake Travis form the southwestern boundary of this scenic Hill Country ranch. The unique shoreline offers the best of both worlds. First, a high bluff affords dramatic views of the lake and hills up and down the Colorado River Valley. Second, a privately owned cove provides great access to the lake. The cove also serves as the perfect swimming hole and is an ideal location for a boat dock. A combination of deep ravines, superior soil, and good cover creates an excellent deer and turkey habitat. Located on a quiet paved county road, 20 minutes to Marble Falls or 30 minutes to Austin. $1,999,000

JIM BERRY

www.JimBerryRanchSales.com • 503 S. Hwy 281, Burnet, TX 78611

An Excellent Choice for Quality Living

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605 Gateway Central, Marble Falls (directly behind Gateway Villa) • (830) 693-1903

Only a tour of Gateway Villa & Gateway Gardens can do justice to the wonderful quality of life in an atmosphere of independence and beauty. We invite you to come by today for a personal tour.

Susan White, Executive Director swhite@5sqc.com

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in the Highland Lakes ANCIENT DISCOVERIES 16

FALL WINTER 2013 ON THE COVER Austin Ellis (left) and Ben Stripling enjoy a little fishing on Lake LBJ. Even as the temperatures take a dip, the fishing on area lakes remains hot through the fall and most of the winter.With less boat traffic, anglers often find they have the lakes to themselves during the fall and winter months. But if fishing isn’t something you particularly enjoy, don’t worry because inside you’ll find 100 more things to explore, do or try. Staff photo by Daniel Clifton

YEAR-ROUND BOATING ON 5 LAKES 26

MICROBREWERIES BLOSSOM 48

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Play on 5 Lakes Enjoy 28 Parks Step Back In Time Explore History Holiday Calendar Events For Runners Other Events Year-Round Sports Great Golf Courses

30-31 32 35 36 41 49 51 56 59

Map Adventures Wineries Outdoor Activities Arts & Entertainment Local Microbreweries Where To Sleep Wildlife Advertiser Index

Victory Publishing Co., Ltd. Texas Best Country

Submission and inquires regarding advertising call (830) 693-7152 or email: advertising@thepicayune.com. Please include 101 Fun Things in the subject line. News items to: editor@thepicayune.com

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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PLAY ON 5 LAKES PLAY ON 5 LAKES

Hook a fish in Lake Buchanan

Lake Buchanan exists because of Buchanan Dam, which was constructed by the Lower Colorado River Authority and finished in 1939, making the lake the first one created in the Colorado River chain. The dam is more than two miles in length. Buchanan also is the biggest of the lakes, covering 22,333 acres. The lake is named after Rep. James P. Buchanan, who secured the funding to build the lake and the dam. Since it’s a level-controlled reservoir, Lake Buchanan won’t flood because of heavy rains. It does suffer from lower levels during a drought.

Continued on page 9

Fishing guide John Gilbert with a a client on Lake Travis. Courtesy Photo

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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Go boating or take a hike at Inks Lake

Drought or no drought, one lake that is always filled and ready for sport is Inks Lake. A constant-level lake, Inks covers 831 acres with a maximum depth of 60 feet. Its 888 feet of water fluctuates by only about a foot a year. At 4.2 miles long and 3,000 feet wide, it is the shortest of the lakes on the Colorado River chain. The lake is home to one of the prettiest and most popular state parks in Texas: Inks Lake State Park.

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Fishing and boating on Lake LBJ

Perhaps the most popular of the Highland Lakes for both watersports and fishing is Lake LBJ. The 6,449 acres of Continued on page 10

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PLAY ON 5 LAKES

Continued from page 9 surface water make it perfect for motorboats and sailboats, skiing and fishing. Lake LBJ begins in Kingsland and travels along the Colorado River footprint for 21 miles to Horseshoe Bay. It was originally named Lake Granite Shoals when it was first formed by Wirtz Dam in 1951. It was renamed in 1965 to honor President Lyndon Baines Johnson because of his work building the dams to bring electricity to the Hill Country. Operated by LCRA, Lake LBJ is a constant-level lake with a maximum depth of 90 feet.

Scott Williams enjoys winter fishing in the Highland Lakes. Staff photo by Daniel Clifton

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Visit Lake Marble Falls: A lot of fun in a small package

With 611 acres of surface water, Lake Marble Falls might be the smallest lake in the Colorado River chain, but it packs in a lot of fun. The biggest selling point of the little lake is that water levels remain steady at 737 feet above sea level. And though it might not be as large as its neighbors, it is perfect for personal watercraft and fishing.

Enjoy winding, wonderful Lake Travis

One of two reservoirs — Lake Buchanan being the other — Lake Travis spreads across 19,297 acres covering almost 30 square miles when full. The lake was formed in 1942 when LCRA built Mansfield Dam on the western edge of Austin. It has a maximum depth of 190 feet. Lake levels vary according to drought conditions.

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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John Gilbert excels in catching crappie [pronounced CROP-E]. Courtesy Photo

ENJOY 28 PARKS

Enchanted Rock State Park

Because of its popularity, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 16710 RR 965 between Llano and Fredericksburg, can quickly reach capacity, sometimes even before noon. Park staff reopens the facility as parking spaces become available. It’s a good idea to call ahead at (830) 685-3636 to check availability. Primitive backpacking, camping, hiking, rock climbing, picnicking, geological study, bird-watching and stargazing are favorite park activities. Restrooms, showers, tent pads, playscapes, picnic tables, fire rings, hike-in primitive sites, a pavilion, an interpretive center and a park store are available.

Inks Lake State Park

Marble Falls, Inks Lake State Park covers about 1,200 acres. From setups for the largest recreational vehicle to rustic campsites, this park is a camper’s heaven. Hiking is available on several miles of trails around the park. The rangers also offer electric boat sunset cruises, kayaking lessons and tours (including a midnight paddle). Organized hikes and bird-watching with a naturalist are just part of the planned excursions. Call (512) 793-2223 for more.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located on the western edge of the Pedernales Falls State Park, the Twin Falls for which the park is named tumble from an upper water basin. While you can’t swim in this section of the park, the source river courses through the park, offering lots

Located at 3630 Park Road 4 just a few miles west of U.S. 281 between Burnet and

Continued on page 13

Enjoy a hike at Pedernales Falls State Park. Staff photo

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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ENJOY 28 PARKS

Continued from page 12 of other great spots for a dip. One favorite is Arrowhead Pool, where Bee Creek finds its way into the river. Hikers have a seven-mile trail throughout the park to explore. Trails also are available for mountain biking and horseback riding (bring your own horse.) The park is located at 2585 Park Road 6026, several miles east of Johnson City. Call (830) 868-7304 for more.

LBJ State Park/ Johnson Boyhood Home

Walk in a president’s footsteps at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site and the separate Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park between Johnson City and Stonewall on U.S. 290. The 717-acre state park gives visitors an intimate look at America’s 36th president. The national park features the original Johnson settlement, LBJ’s boyhood home, the LBJ ranch

Enjoy a family walk at Inks Lake State Park. Staff photo house and the Johnson Family Cemetery. For more about LBJ National Historical Park, call (830) 868-7128 or visit www.nps. gov/lyjo. For more about LBJ State Park, call (830) 644-2252.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

tours of the caverns. The park is located on Park Road 4 in Burnet County about six miles west of U.S. 281. Call (830) 598-CAVE (2283) or (512) 756-4680. Visit www.longhorncaverns.com for more.

Longhorn Cavern is the centerpiece of this 645-acre park. Visitors can take daily tours of the underground caves or explore above-ground hiking trails. The Austin Paranormal Society even offers paranormal

Pick a park for a perfect fun day

Other parks in the Highland Lakes include: Continued on page 14

Come experience over one million twinkling lights along the shoreline of beautiful Lake Marble Falls. The winter wonderland is sure to fill your holiday season with enchantment.

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VISITOR CENTER

830.693.4449 TOLL FREE 800.759.8178 801 Hwy. 281 • Marble Falls

www.marblefalls.org 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

ENJOY 28 PARKS

Continued from page 13 • Black Rock Park, 3400 RR 261 in Buchanan Dam — A 25-acre LCRAoperated park with RV hook-ups and 12 mini-cabins. No boat ramp is available, but the Llano County Park next door has one. Call (512) 369-4774 or visit www.lcra.org. There are fees associated with this facility. • Camp Creek Recreation Area, 1221 CR 343 east of Marble Falls — An LCRA park with overnight camping and no fees. A waterless toilet is available. Call (512) 4733366 or visit www.lcra.org. • Canyon of the Eagles, 16942 RR 2341 on the northeastern shores of Lake Buchanan — Another LCRA park of 940 aces, 800 of which provide habitat for three threatened or endangered bird species: the American bald eagle, the black-capped vireo and the golden-cheeked warbler. The park also includes the Canyon of the Eagles Resort, which is run by a private company. Folks can enjoy three miles of lakefront and 14 miles of trails. Call (512) 715-0290.

Lake Marble Falls. Staff photo camping is on a first-come, first-served basis; no fees. For more information or for groups of 20 or more, call (800) 776-LCRA (5272) ext. 3366. • Colorado Bend State Park, near Bend just west of Lampasas — A 5,300-acre park with 15.8 miles of hiking trails, 14 miles of mountain-biking trails and two primitive backpacking areas. For reservations, call (512) 389-8900.

• Cedar Point Recreational Area, 545 RR 3014 in Tow — A 400-acre LCRA facility with three miles of shoreline. Overnight

Continued on page 15

Inks Lake State Park. Staff photo

Burnet 700 North Water St. 512-756-7143 14

Lampasas 201 North Key Ave. 512-556-6269

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Hamilton 923 East Main St. 254-386-3143

Marble Falls 1408 FM 1431 830-693-0012

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ENJOY 28 PARKS

Continued from page 14 • Haley-Nelson Park, on Garden Trails Drive off Texas 29 in Burnet — The 51-acre park features soccer fields, an amphitheater, disc golf, a picnic pavilion, two washer complexes and walking and hiking trails. • Hamilton Creek Park, just off U.S. 281 and Texas 29 in Burnet — Features a walkover bridge, fountains and a playground. To schedule use of the amphitheater, call (512) 756-2402. • Johnson Park, 230 Ave. J South along Backbone Creek in Marble Falls — Features shade trees, horseshoe pits, a sand court for volleyball, swings, two playscapes, a boat ramp and an off-leash dog area. An open pavilion is available with restrooms on site. Visit the city of Marble Falls website at www.ci.marble-falls.tx.us. • Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, south of Fredericksburg on Texas 16 near the airport — Covers 150 acres with six tennis courts, four of which are lit. The park has the enclosed Pioneer Pavilion, which can accommodate up to 500 people. • Lakeside Park, 307 Buena Vista Drive in Marble Falls on the shores of Lake Marble Falls — Features picnic tables, a boat ramp, tennis courts and a pool. Lakeside Pavilion can be used for large gatherings. Visit the city of Marble Falls website at www.ci.marble-falls.tx.us.

• Reimers Ranch Park, 23610 Hamilton Road in Dripping Springs — Fishing, hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing. Call (512) 854-PARK (7275) or visit the Travis County Parks website at parks.traviscountytx.gov. • Robinson City Park, 123 Robinson Park Drive on the Llano River about two miles west of downtown Llano off RR 152 — Covers about five acres with restrooms, picnic tables and grills. Features a boat ramp for non-motorized boats, fishing, an 18-hole golf course, a playground, volleyball, half-court basketball and hiking. A pavilion and barbecue areas also are available with reservations. Call (325) 247-4158 ext. 202.

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• Tommy White Park, in the 900 block of Texas 29 next to the city swimming pool in Burnet — Offers picnic and playground facilities and volleyball courts. • Wallace Riddell Park, at the intersection of Texas 29 and Rhomberg Street in Burnet — Offers picnic tables, a playground and a baseball field. • Westside Park, 1610 Second St. off Avenue N in Marble Falls — Features a disc-golf course and a playground. Visit the city of Marble Falls website at www. ci.marble-falls.tx.us.

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• Muleshoe Bend Recreational Area, 2820 CR 414 in Spicewood — Features a 6.5-mile mountain-bike trail (some of it a fairly challenging single track). Also a great place for trail running or horseback riding (you provide the horse). On the shores of Lake Travis. Fees apply. Call (800) 776-LCRA (5272) ext. 3366. • Pace Bend Park, on North Pace Bend Park Road in the Travis County part of Spicewood — Fishing, camping, picnicking, sunbathing, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding along with primitive and improved campsites, picnic tables, two boat ramps and restrooms. Call (512) 264-1482 or visit the Travis County Parks website at parks.traviscountytx.gov. • Pedernales River Nature Park, 404 U.S. 281 South in Johnson City — A 222-acre day-use only park that stretches along the Pedernales River. No swimming allowed. Call (512) 473-3366 or visit www.lcra.org.

HIGHLAND LAKES NEWS ONLINE WWW.DAILYTRIB.COM

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

Step back in time at

the Nightengale Archaeological Center

BY ALECIA ORMSBY

The Nightengale Archaeological Center in Kingsland unveils life in the Highland Lakes at the time of the mammoth, nearly 6,000 years ago. Located on the southeast side of Lookout Mountain between RR 1431, Lake LBJ and the Twin Oaks subdivision, it once was an active archaeological dig. Although no longer under excavation, visitors can take a free tour of the site 2-4 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Tours begin at the air-conditioned center and follow winding pathways through the woods to several open digs. Information is posted along the way that details the lifestyle of the primitive people who once lived there. The Llano Uplift Archeological Society gives the tours Continued on page 17

No one had any idea that there was an archaeological site here.” As a member of the Llano Uplift Archeological Society and a history enthusiast, Patrick Hatten gives a spirited and knowledgable tour of the Nightengale Archaeological Center on RR 1431 at the foot of the Kingsland Mountain. Photo by Suzanne Freeman

— Patrick Hatten Member of the Llano Uplift Archeological Society

in the highland lakes 14 acres of quality trees and landscape plants Landscaping and design services available Orchid greenhouse & 10,000 sq. ft. shade center Tree-planting services Pottery, fountains & gift items Full line of composts, mulches and organics Gift cards available Gift Shop Knowledgeable & professional staff Poinsettias, Christmas Trees, Visits from Santa

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 and runs the center, which features artifact displays and printed information about the site. The Lower Colorado River Authority owns the site and center. Ancient discoveries Residents in the area discovered the significance of the unused LCRA property about 25 years ago. “This was the back way to get to the lake,” society volunteer Patrick Hatten says. “No one had any idea that there was an archaeological site here.” Smooth, rounded indents in the bedrock, which were formed by grinding seeds, nuts and grains into flour, proved the area was a popular site for Native Americans to cook and eat communal meals. The bedrock served as the “metate,” the bottom plate of a grinding tool. Small rocks called “manos” were used to grind the grains or nuts (mostly pecans). Archaeologists say the resulting meal was used to make cakes and flat bread. Fire-cracked rocks also cover the area, indicating the presence of ovens used for cooking mammoth, buffalo, mussels and other foods. “We found mounds of mussel shells, a

main source of food,” Hatten says. More than 100,000 artifacts, including arrowheads and stone hatchets, have been unearthed at the site. Additionally, spear points, which are much larger and stronger than the arrowheads and can pierce the skin of a mammoth, have been found in abundance. Each item uncovered is carefully catalogued and turned over to the

University of Texas at Austin for study. About 500 archaeological sites in Burnet County and almost 6,000 sites in Travis County have been discovered. The Nightengale Archaeological Center in Kingsland is a great place to explore the past. For more information, visit the Llano Uplift Archeological Society website at texasluas.org.

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101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

EXPLORE HISTORY

Worship in historic churches in the Highland Lakes

BURNET COUNTY Crownover Chapel on FM 1855 in Backbone Valley in Fairland near Marble Falls — Thought to be the first church built in Burnet County, it was finished in 1870 and named after the Rev. Arter Crownover of Methodist Episcopal Church South. LLANO COUNTY Trinity United Methodist Church, 18 miles west of Llano on RR 2768 South — It was created when the original Castell church, formed in 1852, joined with Hoersterville Methodist Episcopal Church in 1939. The Hoersterville church that was constructed in 1885 was torn down and rebuilt in Castell and serves as the education building and the fellowship hall today. Services are 11 a.m. Sundays with Sunday school at 10 a.m.

Explore history at Falls on the Colorado Museum

History is more than facts and dates. The staff of volunteers at the Falls on the Colorado Museum put names and faces with the area’s history, helping bring it to life. The museum is located at 2001 Broadway St. in Marble Falls and is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Because it is located on the Marble Falls Elementary School campus, visitors must have photo identifications scanned on school days before 3:30 p.m. Call (830) 798-2157 or visit fallsmuseum.org.

Relive history at Fort Croghan

Fort Croghan at 703 W. Buchanan (Texas 29 West) was the third of four forts created by the U.S. government to protect settlers from hostile Indians on the Texas frontier. It was used from 1849 to 1853. It originally

Re-enactor Florence Reeves on Fort Croghan Day. Courtesy photo covered 50 acres near Burnet. A small section remains today thanks to the Burnet County Historical Society. Each year, weather permitting, members of the society take visitors back to yesteryear during Fort Croghan Day. In 2013, re-enacters will portray life in the 1850s on Oct. 12. Group tours can be scheduled year-round. Call (512) 756-8281, email info@fortcroghan.org or visit fortcroghan.org. Continued on page 19

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

EXPLORE HISTORY Continued from page 18

See what’s new at the Llano County Historical Museum

A new, juried show of Western art and culture opens at the Llano County Historical Museum on Oct. 18 and runs 77 days until Jan. 4, 2014. A grand opening is planned for Heritage Weekend on Oct. 18-20 in conjunction with the Llano River Chuck Wagon Cook-Off. Originally Bruhl’s Drugstore, the Llano County Historical Museum, 310 Bessemer Ave. in Llano, was given to the Llano County Historical Society in 1965 by the A.H. Bruhl family. The façade was changed during renovations, but the interior, with its marble soda fountain and leather fountain stools, remains intact. Located on the banks of the Llano River just north of the Roy B. Inks Bridge, the museum is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. WednesdaySaturday. Call (325) 247-3026 or visit www. llanomuseum.org.

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Explore history at the Llano Red Top Jail

The Llano Red Top Jail was built in 1895 and used to incarcerate inmates until 1982. Located one block east of Ford Street (on Texas 16 and Texas 71) off the square in Llano, the jail is rumored to be home to a ghost or two. Tours by the Friends of the Red Top Jail are currently on hold while repair work to stabilize the facility is ongoing. Visit redtopjail.com for more.

Take a courthouse road trip through five counties

A historic courthouse road trip is a great way to get to know the history and the town squares of the Highland Lakes. With two historic courthouses, Blanco County is a good place to start. The Old Blanco County Courthouse hasn’t been used as a courthouse since 1890. Located on the town square on U.S. 281 in Blanco, it now hosts weddings, parties and festivals.

The current Blanco County Courthouse — where the county judge presides — is at 101 E. Pecan St. in Johnson City. It was built in 1916 after the county seat was moved to Johnson City in 1890. The newest of the Highland Lakes courthouses, the Burnet County Courthouse, was built in 1937 out of local granite. It is located at 220 S. Pierce St. in Burnet. While you’re at the courthouse, look over to Jackson Street to see the old county jail, another piece of local history. Not used as a jail since the 1970s, it now houses local businesses. The Lampasas County Courthouse, 501 E. Fourth St. in Lampasas, is the third-oldest courthouse in the state still used for county government. Built in 1883, the building was restored to its Second Empire and Italianate styles. The Llano County Courthouse, 801 Ford St. in Llano, is one of the few remaining Texas courthouses built before 1900. The fourth building to serve Llano as a courthouse, it is constructed of Texas red sandstone, marble and granite. The Mason County Courthouse, 201 Fort McKavitt St. in Mason, was constructed in 1909. This is the third courthouse to serve Mason County after the first building Continued on page 20

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101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

EXPLORE HISTORY Continued from page 19

burned in 1877 and the second suffered fire damage in 1900.

Pay tribute to 19 heroes at the National Museum of the Pacific War The National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St. in Fredericksburg, is a six-acre museum complex that includes the Admiral W. Nimitz Museum, the George H.W. Bush Gallery, the Japanese Garden of Peace, the Memorial Courtyard, the Plaza of Presidents and the Nimitz Education and Research Center. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $10 for active or retired military members with IDs and $7 for children 6 and older and students with IDs. World War II veterans and children 5 and younger get in free. Admission for tour groups with advanced reservations is $8. Visit www.pacificwarmuseum.org or call (830) 997-8600 ext. 209.

Highland Lakes Squadron museum at the Burnet Municipal Airpport. Photo by Jared Fields

Dig into your family history

at the Herman Brown Free Library, 100 Washington St. in Burnet. Email burnetcgs@gmail.com for more.

Members of the Kingsland Genealogical Society can help you trace your family history. The society holds monthly meetings 2 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the Kingsland Branch Library, 125 W. Polk St. in Kingsland. Email kingslandgenealogicalsociety@gmail.com for information on how to meet up with a member or even become one! The Burnet County Genealogical Society meets 1:15 p.m. the third Thursday of each month (except August and December)

Highland Lakes Squadron museum

The Highland Lakes Squadron museum at the Burnet Municipal Airport, 2302 U.S. 281 South in Burnet, features World War II artifacts and a hangar with aircraft from the era. The museum is open 1-4 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Call ahead at (512) 756-2226 or visit highlandlakessquadron.com.

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

AREA EVENTS HOLIDAY EVENTS

Brighten your 22 holidays with the Marble Falls parade of lights The Marble Falls Christmas Light-Up Parade kicks off the holiday season and the annual Walkway of Lights display. The parade starts around dusk Nov. 22. and travels south along Main Street, ending at Lakeside Park on Buena Vista Drive. The Walkway of Lights runs 6-10 p.m. each day (weather permitting) through Jan. 1, 2014. Visit www.marblefalls.org for more.

NOV. 22

Stroll Llano’s Starry, Starry Nights display

Llano gets into the holiday spirit at its annual Starry, Starry Nights display in Badu Park. The switch to this brilliant light display along the Llano River is flipped the day after Thanksgiving each year. Mr. and Mrs. Claus attend on weekends. Enjoy warm drinks, snacks and crafts during the weekend hours. Stroll along the path of the lights display through New Year’s Eve. Visit www.llanomainstreet.com for more.

The Marble Falls annual Walkway of Lights exhibit. Courtesy photo

NOV. 29-DEC. 31

Celebrate a classic Christmas in Fredericksburg

The Christmas NOV. 29-JAN. 4 season begins in Fredericksburg on Nov. 29 with the lighting of a 26-foot pyramid handcrafted in Germany, an awesome German-themed Christmas tree and the opening of the outdoor ice-skating rink, all located in the Marktplatz, 100 W. Main St. The tree features local, handcrafted ornaments.

Join Johnson City for a Timeless Christmas

On Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 and 14, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park in Johnson City features a lamp-lit tour of the former president’s boyhood home from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It’s a great contrast to the “Lights Spectacular” going on downtown. On Dec. 7, visitors can take a short walk down a lighted trail to the Johnson Settlement. The event is free. The LBJ Boyhood Home is located on Elm Street between avenues G and F in Johnson City, south of Texas 290. Call (830) 868-7128.

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The annual Fredericksburg Community Christmas Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6 on Main Street. Also, check out St. Nikolausmarkt at Marktplatz, 100 W. Main St., from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. The market continues 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 8.

DEC. 6

NOV. 30, DEC. 7 & DEC. 14

HIGHLAND LAKES NEWS ONLINE

Parade through Fredericksburg

Live the Christmas story in Johnson City DEC. 6-7 & DEC. 13-14

First United Methodist Church of Johnson City, 105 North LBJ Drive, celebrates Christmas on Dec. 6-7 and Dec. 13-14 with its annual Living Christmas Story. Church and community volunteers recreate the first Christmas, complete with live animals and a nativity scene. Viewing begins at 6 p.m. each night and continues every half-hour until 8:30 p.m. Each show Continued on page 22

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

AREA EVENTS

Continued from page 21

lasts about 10 minutes. Enjoy free refreshments afterward. Visit fumcjctx.org or call (830) 868-7414.

Light up the season with the Llano Christmas parade

The Llano Lighted Christmas Parade on Dec. 7 DEC. 7 journeys around the courthouse square as the sun sets in the west. Start the fun with a sidewalk sale and a market from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Llano Woman’s Culture Club is hosting its annual Holiday Home Tour in Llano and the surrounding area, also Dec. 7. Purchase tickets at the chamber office, 100 Train Station Drive. For more on any of the events, call (325) 247-5354.

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Travel to Bethlehem in Burnet DEC. 6-9 & DEC. 13-15

Sponsored by First Baptist Church of Burnet, Main Street Bethlehem features a life-size replica of Bethlehem at the time of Christ’s birth with street vendors, craftspeople, shepherds and Mary and Joseph. The church is located at 108 S. Vanderveer St. Bethlehem is open 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15. Arrive early because the event packs the town. Call (512) 756-4481 or visit fbcburnet.org.

See Christmas at Ole’ Fort Croghan

See how residents in the 1850s celebrated the holidays at Christmas at Ole’ Fort Croghan from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 14. Admission and parking are free. Live music and volunteers in period clothing bring the holiday spirit to life. Luminaries light the path as spectators go from house to house to see holiday decorations.

DEC. 14

We're about to kick off another awesome season at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours... And you're invited to join in the fun! Have you ever dreamed of flying? Come experience the thrill of the wind in your face while the ground glides below you this spring at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours. We offer a fun-filled educational adventure that will also have your adrenaline pumping. Bring your family, friends, or a date and share the wonder and joy of soaring through the tree tops! It's an experience you'll remember for years to come and want to do again and again! Explore the Texas Hill Country at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours this spring and enjoy the abundant array of wild flowers about to bloom! Our guide team is ready to take you through the trees starting March 8th and we will be open the entire next week for spring break and throughout the spring and summer. Also, our new Lofthaven tree house is almost finished! You can book your romantic night in the trees starting mid-March. Reserve your tree top adventure in advance as tours and overnight tree house stays book up early.

You can book online at cypressvalleycanopytours.com or call 512-264-8880. We're happy to help you plan your adventure!

Also, if you're looking for a great activity for team building~ Cypress Valley offers companies large and small the chance to experience the exciting bonding experience of a zipline-canopy tour!

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Fort Croghan is located at 703 Buchanan Drive (Texas 29 West) in Burnet. Call (512) 756-8281, email info@fortcroghan.org or visit fortcroghan.org.

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Enjoy a winter wonderland at Llano Snow Day

Experience a Snow Day at 1 p.m. Dec. 14 at Badu Park in Llano. Wristbands are $5 and good all day. Enjoy fabricated snow and other adventures at the park, which is located on the banks of the Llano River at 300 Legion Drive. Call (325) 247-5354 or visit llanochamber.org.

DEC. 14

Meet up with Santa at Christmas on the Square in Burnet

Santa comes to town Dec. 14 as the Christmas on the Square Festival consumes downtown

DEC. 14

Continued on page 23

AREA EVENTS

Continued from page 22 Burnet from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. A parade with Santa Claus as grand marshal caps off the festivities. Call (512) 756-4297 or visit burnetchamber.org.

Enjoy a presidential Christmas-tree lighting

The Christmas season gets a distinct presidential feel Dec. 15 during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site and the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. The parks are located between Johnson City and Fredericksburg on U.S. 290. The event starts at 5 p.m. with the official Christmastree lighting at 6 p.m. Visitors can expect plenty of holiday activities, starting with an open house at the Sauer-Beckman German farm that includes a candlelit Christmas tree. Local youth also put on a children’s nativity scene. The Community Band of Fredericksburg and the Stonewall youth provide some yuletide

DEC. 15

EVENTS FOR RUNNERS

sounds during the celebration. Visit www.nps.gov/lyjo or call (830) 8687128.

Burnet participates in National Christmas Bird Count

For 114 years, birders around the world have pointed their binoculars to the skies to count the birds in their areas for the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count. The count takes place from Dec. 14 through Jan. 5. Burnet birders split up over nine assigned areas in a 15-mile radius from the center of Burnet. The final numbers are put into the Audubon Society’s database. If you are able to spot birds and enjoy a cold crisp day in the Hill Country, email Elizabeth Knebel of Kingsland at ealgk@moment.net. The Burnet group will pick a specific day to make the count.

DEC. 14 - JAN. 5

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Get your ‘tri’ on with Burnet Tri Hard

The annual Burnet Tri Hard triathlon Oct. 13 starts at Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West near Burnet. The sprint distance, one of the fastest-growing in triathlons, features a 800-meter swim, an 18-mile bike ride and a 5-kilometer run. Competitors in the Olympic distance category start with a 1,500-meter swim followed by a 37.5-mile bike ride and a 10-kilometer run. While the swims are contained in Inks Lake, the bike leg takes competitors out of the park and onto area roads. The races start at 7:30 a.m. You can register to participate at www.redemptionrp.com/burnettri.

OCT. 13

Continued on page 24

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

AREA EVENTS

Continued from page 23

Hit the road for the first Hill County Marathon

The Hill Country Marathon on Oct. 20 begins at Mustang Stadium, 2101 Mustang Drive in Marble Falls. Participants can choose from three distances: the marathon, the half-marathon and the 10-kilometer. The marathon raises money for Serve Who Serve, a local organization that helps military families. Before the longer races, there also is the Phoenix Kids 1 Mile Fun Run, which will raise money for the Phoenix Center, a local nonprofit that provides mental health care and other services to Highland Lakes youth. Organizers hope to include other family-fun activities during the marathon, which is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon held in the spring. Visit runthehillcountry. com for more.

OCT. 20

Run the Rock

The Enchanted Rock Trail Run on Nov. 10 takes place at Enchanted Rock State NOV. 10 Natural Area, 16710 RR 965 between Fredericksburg and Llano. Participants can chose between a 10-kilometer or a 25-kilometer race. The 10K takes runners around Enchanted Rock one time. The 25K loops the rock three times before going up it to the summit. Download a course map (as well as register) at www. redemptionrp.com.

OTHER EVENTS

Visit the past on Fort Croghan Day

Burnet County history comes alive during Fort Croghan Day on Oct. 12. Visitors can see a blacksmith pound iron into a usable part, watch sugar get turned into syrup and hear musicians play top tunes from the past. Fort Croghan Day is the second Saturday in October from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

OCT. 12

Fort Croghan is located at 703 Buchanan Drive (Texas 29 West) in Burnet. Call (512) 756-8281, email info@fortcroghan.org or visit fortcroghan.org.

Fredericksburg 39 Pacific Re-enactment at National Museum of the Pacific War OCT. 12-13 & NOV. 9-10 History comes to life at the National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St. in Fredericksburg, when World War II re-enactors present three 90-minute shows Oct. 12-13 and Nov. 9-10 at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Visitors can see weapon demonstrations and hear re-enactors talk about the strategies that won the war. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $10 for active or retired military members with IDs and $7 for children 6 and older and students with IDs. World War II veterans and children 5 Continued on page 25

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

AREA EVENTS

Continued from page 24 and younger get in free. Admission for tour groups with advanced reservations is $8. Visit pacificwarmuseum.org or call (830) 997-8600 ext. 209.

Bring your chuck wagon to Llano Heritage Weekend

Events Center, located west of downtown on RR 152. Visit llanochamber.org or call (325) 247-5354 for more.

Point your plane (or car) toward Llano Grass Field Fly-in

The Llano airport, 100 Evelyn Gould Drive just north of the city off Texas 16, becomes the home for visiting pilots and their aircraft during the Fall Grass Field Fly-in and Campout on Oct. 19-20. The public is invited to see the aircraft and meet the pilots camping on the grass strip next to their planes. Visit llanochamber.org or call (325) 247-5354 for more.

The Stars of Texas 2014 Quilt Show on Feb. 14-15 will be held at Lakeside Pavilion, 307 Buena Vista Drive in Marble Falls. Sponsored by the Marble Falls Quilt Club, the two-day show includes vendors and a boutique. Plan to have lunch and spend time learning about quilting, talking to the quilters and voting on your favorites. Also, participate in a silent auction and buy chances on a donated quilt. The Stars of Texas 2014 Quilt Show is 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 14 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 15. Admission is $6. Children 10 and younger get in free. Email marblefallsquiltclub@gmail.com for more. The Marble Falls Quilt Club meets at 9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at First United Methodist Church, 1101 Bluebonnet Drive in Marble Falls.

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OCT. 19-20

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Llano Heritage Weekend on Oct. 18-20 features living history demonstrations, including stagecoach rides and chuck wagons. The Llano River Chuck Wagon Cook-Off in Badu Park compliments the weekend with events Oct. 19-20. A public meal is noon Oct. 19. Later, you can enjoy the Ranch Rodeo at 6 p.m. at the Llano

OCT. 18-20

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YEAR-ROUND SPORTS

43 We LOVE boating on our lakes! BY ALECIA ORMSBY

When I’m on the lake, I lose myself in the moment, and nothing else is important.” — Wayne Salem Marble Falls resident

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

With so many lakes from which to choose, boaters usually have a favorite. Tim Banigan and his wife, Mickey, have been visiting Lake Buchanan for more than 25 years. “Going to the islands near Tow at the upper end of the lake to fish, picnic or to see Falls Creek waterfalls is so beautiful and relaxing,” Tim Banigan says. “The lake is low now, but it could come back in a weekend with enough rain.” Wayne Salem, a master fisherman and the owner of Salem’s Jewelry in Marble Falls, also loves boating the lakes “I grew up on Lake LBJ, and there was not nearly as much traffic as now,” Salem says. “We went everywhere on a boat, to visit friends from Horseshoe Bay to Kingsland.” Tim and Ann Heide are newcomers to Lake LBJ. They visited Horseshoe Bay for the first time over the summer, when they purchased a ski/wakeboard boat for their two teenaged daughters. “We have had a fabulous summer on the lake,” Ann Heide says. “We usually go out in the afternoon. My husband and I enjoy watching the sunset and taking an evening boat ride, too.” Although she might not find as much time to go boating during the busy summer months, Patricia Heinecke, owner of El Rio Marina, rents outs boats, jet skis and a pontoon. She has nine years’ experience putting people on the water and behind boats on various pull toys. El Rio is open year-round as a convenience store, a clothing store and a restaurant. It also has cabins for rent. “We feed ‘em, house ‘em, clothe ‘em and gas ‘em up,” Heinecke says. Lake Travis is another favorite boating lake, with quiet coves and open water to explore. “When I’m on the lake, I lose myself in the moment, and nothing else is important,” says Steve Rudkin, who has lived on Lake Travis for almost 20 years. “It’s a feeling of freedom and liberation, where the telephone becomes a second thought.”

Take a swing at the many golf courses in the Highland Lakes BY JENNIFER FIERRO

Within a one-hour drive of each other are several of the best golf courses around. Golf pro David Klotz, who gives lessons and plays at each one of these courses, offered 101 Fun Things his ideal road map to making the most of his favorite game. Make sure to follow these point-by-point directions and mark them off just like you would on your scorecard. And don’t forget to pack your driver, putter and appetite. You’ll need them. • Begin at Hancock Park Golf Course, 237 Naruna Road in Lampasas, where A.C. January, the father of PGA standout Don January, was the course’s first pro. Holes 1 and 2 at Hancock Park are big challenges because they are island greens. “Every time they have a big rain,” Klotz says, “the holes go under water.”

• Just a brief eight-mile drive down FM 2147 to Texas 71 and FM 2831 is Blue Lake Golf Club, 214 W. Bluebonnet Road in

Horseshoe Bay. It was designed in 1962. The course is on the highest point in Burnet County and overlooks Lake LBJ. • Get back on Texas 71 to drive to the Llano River Golf Course, 2835 RR 152 West in Llano. It’s one of the area’s most interesting courses because of the way it’s designed. An aerial view of the course, created in 1966, reveals the shape of an upside down “e” that allows golfers to see the Llano River at every hole. Finish the tour by Continued on page 28

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resort to stay and play. With access to four 18-hole courses, golfers enter a new level of enjoyment. Golf Digest recognized Horseshoe Bay Resort as the best resort golf course in the United States in 1986. Slick Rock, Ram Rock and Apple Rock were designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Summit Rock was designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. Because this is a resort, it also has plenty of tennis courts, a pool, pro shops and access to Lake LBJ.

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• Next stop is Delaware Springs Municipal Golf Course, 600 Delaware Springs Blvd. in Burnet. Built in 1992, Delaware has been named one of the best public golf courses by Golf Digest and is known for its many intangibles, including champion bermuda, considered “the cadillac of greens,” Klotz says. Delaware boasts the best public fairways and greens in the area but also is known as the best course to play a quick nine holes and eat a fantastic burger from the grill. • Follow U.S. 281 South and continue to Hidden Falls Golf Club, 220 Meadowlakes Drive in Meadowlakes. Hidden Falls, started in 1974, has plenty of conveniences, including a pool, tennis courts, a full-service bar and a restaurant. In addition to being the best place to play a three-hour round, Hidden Falls also is the ideal place to teach the sport to a child. • Continue on U.S. 281 South, turn onto FM 2147 and travel eight miles to Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott, 200 Hi Circle North in Horseshoe Bay, which is the area’s best 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

YEAR-ROUND SPORTS Continued from page 27

playing two courses located side by side in Kingsland. • The first is Legends on Lake LBJ, 105 Range Way Circle. Located right on the shores of the lake, Klotz chooses his words wisely when reflecting on this course. “The hardest golf course in the area,” he says. Designed by Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell, it’s highlighted by the No. 7 hole. “You’re hitting into a 50-mph wind,” Klotz says. “It’s a long, hard hole.” The playing time is no more than four hours. • Lighthouse Country Club, 118 Club Circle, has greens full of bumps and lumps. “The trickiest greens in Central Texas,” Klotz says. “The greens are very hilly. It’s like putting on a car hood. It’s the course that has been the most recently redesigned.” It also has a full-service bar and grill and a pool. Time to tee off!

Go fish

From the hidden coves of Lake Travis to Colorado Bend State Park and everywhere in between, the fish are always biting along the Colorado River chain of lakes. Fishing also is plentiful on the many rivers that course through the Hill Country thanks to annual stocks of fingerlings added each year by a variety of organizations. Look for a listing of local fishing guides in The Picayune Area-Wide Phone Book.

Rent a boat on Lake Buchanan or Lake LBJ

Don’t own a boat? From kayaks to ski boats, you can find the right watercraft for you at several places in the Highland Lakes. Make sure to call ahead for availability.

LAKE BUCHANAN

ENTERTAINMENT NEWS ONLINE WWW.KBEYFM.COM

• Thunderbird Lakefront Resort, 200 Greenwood Hills Trail in Burnet, rents pontoons and deck boats. Call (512) 756-4878 or visit thunderbirdvacation.com.

LAKE LBJ • El Rio Boat Rentals, 14757 RR 1431 in Kingsland, rents Sea-Doos, pontoon boats and a 20-foot ski boat. Also, gas by the dock and a nearby convenience store. Call (325) 388-3376 or (512) 755-1118 or visit elrioboatrentals.net. • Lake LBJ Yacht Club and Marina, 200 S. Wirtz Dam Road in Horseshoe Bay, does more than rent boats. It also rents cottages and offers dining at the Granite Beach Grill. Call (830) 693-9172 or visit lakelbjmarina.com. • Log Country Cove, 617 Log Country Cove in Burnet, provides the ideal getaway thanks to the log cabins for rent. Boat rentals include ski and wakeboard boats, pontoons, canoes and pedal boats. Call (512) 756-9132 or visit logcountrycove. com. • Lake LBJ Resort & Marina, 667 Sandy Mountain Drive in Sunrise Beach, rents pontoon boats, runabouts, personal watercraft and ski boats along with tubes, water skis and wakeboards. Call (325) 388-9393 or visit lakelbjfun.com. • Splash Boat Rentals, 1924 RR 1431 in Kingsland, rents personal watercraft, ski boats and pontoon boats. The Bayliner and Larson boats include wakeboard towers. Staff will deliver and launch on lakes LBJ, Buchanan, Inks and Marble Falls. Call (325) 388-5000 or visit splashboatrentals.com.

47 Thai Nyion Rest 1/3S

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Deer and dove hunting

In Llano County, the hunting capital of Texas, dove and deer seasons are just as busy as the summer. Dove season has two hunting periods: Sept. 1-Oct. 23 and Dec. 20-Jan. 5. White-tailed deer season also has several different times, depending on who and how you’re hunting. Archery-only season is Sept. 28-Nov. 1. General deer season, which is by far the most popular hunting season in the state, is Nov. 2-Jan. 5. Youth-only deer hunting is Oct. 26-27 and Jan. 6-19. Late anterless and spike deer can be hunted Jan. 6-19, 2014. In Texas, you’ll need a hunting license from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before you get your gun and go. Each county has specific regulations regarding the number of dove or deer you are permitted to kill. When you buy your license, check the guidelines for the county where you are hunting.

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LLANO

TO MASON

Long Mountain

BUCHANAN DAM

ENCHANTED ROCK STATE PARK

16 KINGSLAND

Ba Kno

TO FREDERICKSBURG 2900

WELCOME

TO THE

HIGHLAND LAKES

2147

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TO LAMPASAS

2341 965

FORT CROGHAN

HILL COUNTRY FLYER

BURNET 29

INKS LAKE STATE PARK

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LONGHORN CAVERN STATE PARK

BERTRAM

TO GEORGETOWN

281

ald ob

SWEETBERRY FARM

1855

1980

1174

Slaughter Mountain

1431 MARBLE FALLS

Castle Mountain

HORSESHOE BAY

1431

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71 TO JOHNSON CITY

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HIGHLAND LAKES ADVENTURES

• M&J Lavender Farm, 2484 Round Mountain-Sandy Road (CR 307) in Johnson City, grows lavender and peaches. The farm has 3,000 lavender plants and too many honeybee hives to count. Call (830) 385-3336 or (512) 944-6696. Visit www. mjlavenderfarm.com.

Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park and Resort

Observe endangered birds such as the American bald eagle, the black-capped vireo and the golden-cheeked warbler at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park and Resort, 16942 RR 2341 near Burnet. The three-mile lakefront features a fishing pier and a boat dock. There are 14 miles of designated hiking trails. About 800 of the park’s 940 acres are a nature preserve. The facility features a gift shop, a park store and a restaurant. You also can stay overnight in one of its 62 spacious rooms. Meeting and banquet facilities, 33 campsites and 25 recreational vehicle sites also are available. After a day of Hill Country activities, spend the night stargazing through the resort’s telescope. Call (512) 334-2070 or (800) 977-0081 or visit www.canyonoftheeagles.com to make reservations.

Edulge in the sweet smell of Lavender

• Imagine Lavender Farm at Rocking L Ranch, 7048 U.S. 281 North in Blanco, is nestled inside the Logue Family Ranch. You’re invited to a picnic and a relaxing day. The farm produces its own honey, herbs and sugar. Call (830) 833-1166 or visit www.imaginelavender.com.

Get a bit off-road wacky

Hidden Falls Adventure Park, 7030 RR 1431 east of Marble Falls, features 3,000 acres of trails for all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, full-size rigs and specially The endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Courtesy photo

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Continued on page 33

ADVERTURES

Continued from page 32 built rock crawlers. If you don’t have the right ride, you can rent one on site from Hill Country Adventure Rentals. Spend a day or a weekend at Hidden Falls Adventure Park, which offers camping sites, recreational vehicle hook-ups and rental cabins. The park is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.7 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Call (830) 798-9820 or visit www.hiddenfallsadventurepark.com.

Along with running and biking, you can enjoy some relaxing hiking on the trail or even a little fishing on the lake. Scuba divers can explore what lurks below the surface of Reveille Peak’s lake (pre-arranged, of course). The ranch opens 5 p.m. Friday and from dusk to dawn Saturday and Sunday. You can purchase a season membership or buy a day pass. Call (512) 755-4417 or visit rprtexas.com. Continued on page 34

Hit the mountain -bike trails at Reveille Peak Ranch

Reveille Peak Ranch, 105 CR 114 north of Texas 29 near Burnet, features 62 miles of combined single- and double-track trails for mountain biking and running. This includes a nine-mile loop of moderate technical trail. Reveille Peak offers primitive camping and some recreational vehicle hook-ups. You also will find restrooms with hot and cold showers.

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

Pogue

ADVENTURES

Continued from page 33

Sculpture Gallery & Foundry, Inc

Pick a pumpkin at Sweet Berry Farm

Fall doesn’t officially start until you’ve made a stop at Sweet Berry Farm, located just outside Marble Falls on FM 1980. Pick pumpkins, paint a jack-o-lantern or take a hayride. It’s great family fun that includes a petting zoo, scarecrow stuffing, flower collecting and homemade ice cream. The farm opens in late September and continues operations through Nov. 8. The pickin’ takes place 1-5 p.m. Sundays and 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and ThursdaySaturday. It’s closed Wednesday. Visit sweetberryfarm.com or call (830) 798-1462.

St. Michael by Dan Pogue (artist pictured center)

15’ Commissioned Sculpture placed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Houston

Visitors Welcome by Appt. 7 Miles East of Marble Falls on Hwy 1431

830-693-9544 www.danpoguesculpture.com

Take a freedom cruise for Eagles

From November through March, Vanishing Texas River Cruise conducts its American bald eagle cruises. The length and location of the cruise depends on the lake levels. Through October, enjoy a Sunset Lake Cruise.

Freedom Flight Cruises are scheduled for Oct. 13 and Nov. 17. In conjunction with Last Chance Forever/Birds of Prey Conservancy in San Antonio, Freedom Flight cruises offer a chance to release a rehabilitated bird of prey back into the wild. For more details, visit the Vanishing Texas River Cruise website at vtrc. com or call (512) 756-6986 or toll free at (800) 474-8374. The cruise office is located on the east shore of Lake Buchanan. To get there from Burnet, at the intersection of U.S. 281 and Texas 29, drive west on 29 for three miles to FM 2341. Turn right, which is north, and go 12 miles to Ed Low Drive. Turn left about one-quarter of a mile then go left on Waterway Lane for about a third of a mile past the house with a tree in the driveway. Then, immediately turn left down the hill to the cruise parking area.

Zip among the trees

Cypress Valley Canopy Tour’s zip-line course takes you from platform to platform as you explore the trees from a unique perspective. The highest platform sits about 40 feet off the ground, while the longest stretch of the zip line covers about 350 feet between stops. Along the way, a guide shares stories about the local ecology. The tour lasts about 90 minutes. Once back on the ground, share a picnic on the shores of the company’s private lake or indulge in a swim. Cypress Valley Canopy Tours has a zip line and a rope for swinging into the water! Located at 1223 S. Paleface Ranch Road in Spicewood, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours is open 9 a.m. to dusk Tuesday-Sunday through November. Visit cypressvalleycanopytours.com or call (512) 264-8880.

Trot the hillside on horseback

• As part of its regular activities, Camp Peniel offers horseback riding for groups and has programs for youth to ride horses owned by the facility. The Christian-based camp is located at 6716 RR 1431 east of Marble Falls. Call (800) 848-1731 or visit camppeniel.org. • Many of the Lower Colorado River Authority parks have horseback-riding trails such as the one at Shaffer Bend Recreational Area, located east of Marble Falls off RR 1431 on CR 343A. Bring your own horse! Visit lcra.org/ parks for more. • Pedernales Falls State Park, 2585 Park Road 6026 just outside of Johnson City, has a beautiful horse trail for those who can bring their own animals. Call (830) 868-7304 for more. Continued on page 36 34

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

SAMPLE HILL COUNTRY WINES

Andy Doerfler harvests grapes at Flat Creek Estate. — Jared Field Thanks to the area’s climate and geography, you can explore the bouquet and flavors of several wineries from Fredericksburg to Johnson City to Bend all yearround. Indeed, the region’s climate and soils have produced some award-winning wines. Just a few years ago, Orbitz. com travel experts ranked the Hill Country wine region as second in the nation behind Napa Valley. Here’s a list of some of the wineries in the Highland Lakes and beyond:

• Alamosa Wine Cellars, 677 CR 430 in Bend in San Saba County, north of Llano, (325) 628-3313, www.alamosawinecellars. com • Becker Vineyards, 464 Becker Farm Road in Stonewall, (830) 644-2681, www. beckervineyards.com • Bell Mountain Vineyards, 463 Bell Mountain Road, 14 miles from Fredericksburg on Texas 16 North, (830) 685-3297, www.bellmountainwine.com • Chisholm Trail Winery, 2367 Usener Road in Fredericksburg, (830) 990-2675 or toll-free at (877) 990-2675, www.chisholmtrailwinery.com • Driftwood Estate Winery, 4001 Elder Hill Road (CR 170) in Driftwood, (512) 8589667, www.driftwoodwine.com • Dry Comal Creek Vineyards, 1741 Herbelin Road in New Braunfels, (830) 885-4076, www.drycomalcreek.com

• Duchman Family Winery, 13308 FM 150 West in Driftwood, (512) 858-1470, www.duchmanwines.com • Fall Creek Vineyards, 1820 CR 222 in Tow, (325) 379-5361, www.fcv.com • Fiesta Winery Fredericksburg, 147A East Main St. in Fredericksburg, 830307-3328, www.fiestawinery.com/fredericksburg. • Flat Creek Estate, 24912 Singleton Bend East off RR 1431 east of Marble Falls, (512) 267-6310, www.flatcreekestate.com • Fredericksburg Winery, 247 W. Main St. in Fredericksburg, (830) 990-8747, www. fbgwinery.com • Grape Creek Vineyards, 10587 U.S. 290 East in Fredericksburg, (830) 644-2710, www.grapecreek.com • Hye Meadow Winery, 10257 West U.S . 290 in Hye, 512-366-2845, www.hyemeadow.com. •Lewis Wines, 3209 U.S. 290 West of Johnson City, 512-663-6468, www.lewiswines.com. • McReynolds Winery, 706 Shovel Mountain Road in Cypress Mill southwest of Spicewood, (830) 825-3544, www. mcreynoldswines.com • Pedernales Cellars, 2916 Upper Albert Road in Stonewall, (830) 644-2037, www. pedernalescellars.com Continued on page 36 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

HILL COUNTRY WINES Continued from page 35

• Texas Legato Winery, 2935 RR 1478 in Lampasas, (512) 556-9600, www.texaslegato.com

• Perissos Vineyards and Winery, 7214 Park Road 4 West in Burnet County, (512) 820-2950, www.perissosvineyards.com

• Torre di Pietra Vineyards, 10915 U.S. 290 East in Fredericksburg, (830) 644-2829, www.texashillcountrywine.com

• Pillar Bluff Vineyards, 300 CR 111 in Lampasas, (512) 556-4078, www.pillarbluff. com

• Westcave Cellars Winery, 25711 Hamilton Pool Road in Round Mountain, (512) 431-1403, www.westcavecellars.com

• Rancho Ponte Vineyard, 315 RR 1376 in Fredericksburg, (830) 990-8555, www. ranchoponte.com

• William Chris Vineyards, 10352 U.S. 290 in Hye, (830) 998-7654, www.williamchriswines.com

• Santa Maria Cellars, 12044 Texas 16 South in Fredericksburg, (830) 998-5357, www.santamariacellarswines.com

• Woodrose Winery, 662 Woodrose Lane in Stonewall, (830) 644-2539, www. woodrosewinery.com

• Sister Creek Vineyards, 1142 Sisterdale Road in Sisterdale, (830) 324-6704, www. sistercreekvineyards.com • Spicewood Vineyards, 1419 CR 409 in Spicewood, (830) 693-5328, www.spicewoodvineyards.com • Stone House Vineyard, 24350 Haynie Flat Road in Spicewood, (512) 264-3630, www. stonehousevineyard.com • Texas Hills Vineyard, 878 RR 2766 in Johnson City, (830) 868-2321, www.texashillsvineyard.com

Shop small stores and boutiques for unique finds

small-town, small-store shopping is the hunt for that one-of-a-kind find!

The Highland Lakes is blessed with an abundance of antiquing opportunities. Just walk along the main streets and town squares of just about any of the local communities for a variety of antique and unique gift shops. Don’t stop there! The best deals often can be found at garage sales, which are listed in The Picayune classifieds on Wednesdays. And while perusing The Picayune, check out the estate-sale and auction listings as well. Several auction houses hold regular events.

The best shopping experience in the Highland Lakes comes from hunting up those local, unique shops nestled in between the big-chain stores. Try any of the courthouse squares in Llano, Burnet or Johnson City. Or the main drags in Marble Falls and Fredericksburg. The best part of

Pick up a treasure at an antique shop

Get on your bicycle and ride

The cooler fall and winter months provide ideal temperatures for cycling. For those who want an off-road experience, mountain-bike trails are available at Reveille Peak Ranch, Inks Lake State Park, Continued on page 37

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LONGHORN CAVERNS Tour Longhorn Caverns and see the cave in a “Whole New Light” compliments of a Texas Parks & Wildlife renovation to replace all the lights in the cavern. Longhorn Cavern is a unique venue for Weddings, Parties and Concerts. We have a great gift shop, hiking trail, and exhibit center! Make reservations for one of our specialty tours: get down and dirty with the Wild Cave Tour, come gather evidence of activity during our Paranormal Tour, or learn more about the area and local rocks on the Geology Geolo Tour. A great place to bring the family!

6211 Park Rd 4 S. - Burnet, TX 78611 830-598-CAVE • www.LonghornCaverns.com 36

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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• Sculptmoves Fitness Studio, 1809-A U.S. 281 in Burnet, (512) 755-9117

ADVENTURES

Continued from page 36

• Curves, 702 Fourth St. in Marble Falls, (830) 693-0393

Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, Colorado Bend State Park and Pedernales Falls State Park. Some of the best on-road cycling can be found on Willow City Loop and Mormon Mill Road.

Take aim at the Copperhead Creek Shooting Club

Copperhead Creek Shooting Club at the Hidden Falls Adventure Park is a full-service club that includes a firearms dealer so you can purchase supplies and gear before hitting one of the many ranges. Choose from competition skeet and trap ranges, a 25-yard pistol range, two 40-yard tactical ranges, a 100-yard rifle range or a 500yard, long-distance rifle range. The range is located at 7030 RR 1431 east of Marble Falls. Visit hiddenfallsadventurepark.com or call (830) 798-9820.

Soar above the Highland Lakes

Fault Line Flyers is an Austin-based soaring club that flies out of an airport in the Briggs area. On the first Saturday of the month, the club offers demo rides for visitors. The cost is $60 or $80, depending on the particular sailplane in which you chose to go up. Demo rides are weather permitting. If there’s a question about the weather, call the Fault Line Flyers airport at (512) 489-2344 after 10 a.m. The first flights typically start at noon, but the best flying conditions are usually 2-4 p.m. The facility is located on CR 210 west of U.S. 281 just southwest of Briggs. Visit faultlineflyers. org for more.

• Verus Strength & Fitness, 708 Industrial Blvd., Suite 101, in Marble Falls, (830) 2658225, www.verusstrengthandfitness.com

Work it all out

From traditional gyms with lots of equipment to more unconventional workouts, you’ll find it in the Highland Lakes. Fitness centers include: • CrossFit Marble Falls, 2309 Commerce St. in Marble Falls, (512) 844-2312, www. crossfitmarblefalls.com • Mad Dawg Fitness, 404 E. League St. in Burnet, (830) 613-0522, www.maddawgfit. com • Marble Falls Athletic Club, 2312 U.S. 281 North in Marble Falls, (830) 693-9393, www.marblefallsathleticclub.com

• Galloway-Hammond Recreation Center, 1601 S. Water St. (U.S. 281) in Burnet, (512) 756-6180, www.gallowayhammond.com

Fly your own plane, feet on the ground

Sometimes being a pilot means staying well-grounded. That’s exactly how members of the Highland Lakes Flyers approach flying as they pilot their remote-controlled aircraft over Hank Nilsen Field at 702 Williamette Road near Kingsland. Flying happens just about every morning of the week starting about 9 a.m. Visitors are welcome. Visit highlandlakesflyers.org for more. Continued on page 38

• Anytime Fitness, 1304 U.S. 281 in Marble Falls, (830) 798-2424, http://anytimefitness.com • Kingsland Health & Fitness Center, 2132 RR 1431 West in Kingsland, (325) 388-0733, www.kingslandfitness.com

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WWW.TEXITALLY.COM 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

ADVENTURES

Continued from page 37

Hit the trail, Highland Lakes-style

Hiking is a great way to explore and enjoy the Highland Lakes. Here are some worthy hikes to consider. • Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park, located near Bend just west of San Saba — Go on a three-mile, round-trip hike through some rugged terrain to the falls. While it’s a bit challenging, the view of the falls makes it worthwhile. You can enjoy a guided hike or hit the trail on your own. Call (325) 628-3240. • Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West near Burnet — Pecan Flats Trail takes you across Park Road 4 to explore a part of the park most people never see. Primitive camping sites are available. Call (512) 7932223. • Pedernales Falls State Park, 2585 Park Road 6026 east of Johnson City — Go on a quarter-mile, family-friendly hike to an overlook of the Twin Falls. Also, you can

take a seven-mile hike up Wolf Mountain Trail. Call (830) 868-7304. • Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 16710 RR 965 near Fredericksburg — There are various hiking opportunities, including Loop Trail and a hike up the batholith itself. Call (830) 685-3636. • Reveille Peak Ranch, 105 CR 114 just west of Burnet — The ranch offers hiking, mountain biking and trail running on 62 miles of single- and double-track trails. Call (512) 755-4417 or visit rprtexas.com.

Jog the towns for scenic treks

The streets and avenues in the local communities provide a great backdrop for jogging. If you’re looking for some more scenic jogs, why not park your car at the Llano County Courthouse and head north along Texas 16? Offering a great view, the road will take you across the Llano River. In Marble Falls, you can jog from Lakeside Park on Buena Vista Drive to Johnson Park on Avenue J. If you head south on Avenue J (where it becomes Pecan Valley) and hang a left on Colorado Drive, you’ll find yourself jogging along Lake Marble Falls. You can

Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm

even loop back around to Pecan Valley and retrace your steps to Lakeside Park.

Dip in your oars for kayak and canoe trips

Canoes and kayaks give you a different perspective when it comes to the water. They also make great fishing craft. You can tuck into tight spots and gain access to tributaries where the fish sometimes hide. Several locations and businesses offer canoe and kayak rentals. • Just Yakin’ Kayaks — It offers single and tandem kayaks, and it delivers, too! Call (325) 665-1208 or (325) 668-2536 or visit justyakin.com. • Canyon of the Eagles, 16942 RR 2341 northwest of Burnet — Visit canyonoftheeagles.com or call (512) 334-2070. • Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West near Burnet — It offers canoe rentals. Call (512) 793-2223. • Painted Sky Inn, 1400 CR 128 in Silver Creek northwest of Burnet — Both kayaks Continued on page 39

Hill Country National Bank

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904 Highway 281 N. • Marble Falls, TX 78654 • 830.693.8150 upscalehomeconsignment@yahoo.com • Pick-Up & Delivery Service Available 38

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Burnet 1210 S. Water St. (Hwy 281) 512-756-7363 •Fax 512-756-7376

“Banking as it should be”

ADVENTURES

Continued from page 38 and stand-up paddle boards are for rent. Visit paintedskyinn.com or call (512) 7159896.

Putt around a miniature golf course Go deep underground with a guided tour at Longhorn Caverns. Courtesy photo

Heart of Texas Lake Resort, 498 Clen Oak Parkway in Burnet, has a great 18-hole miniature golf course with creative holes and lots of kid-friendly scenery. Call (512) 756-7766 or visit heartoftexaslakeresort. com.

Get down under spelunking

The easiest place to go down under in the Highland Lakes is Longhorn Cavern State Park on Park Road 4 in Burnet County. Daily guided tours feature easy walks through the caverns where outlaw Sam Bass is said to have stashed some of his stolen loot. For more serious caving, however, check out the Wild Cave Tour at the cavern. It’s not recommended for those afraid of tight spaces. The walking tours are typically offered daily, while the Wild Cave Tour is on Saturdays and requires reservations. Call (830) 598-CAVE (2283) or (512) 7564680 or visit longhorncaverns.com. Colorado Bend State Park outside Bend also offers a wild cave tour. To find the park, go north on U.S. 281 to Lampasas and, from the 281 and U.S. 183 intersection, take FM 580 west 24 miles to Bend and follow the signs to the park entrance. Call (325) 628-3240 ahead of time to find out when the next tour is.

Come to Visit

Come to Stay

Wednesdays

Sundays

3:30pm Children’s After School Program 8:30am Coffee & Fellowship 5:50pm Praise & Worship Service 8:45am Praise & Worship Contemporary Service 6:30pm Youth Worship 10:00am Sunday School for all ages 7:00pm Adult Choir Practice 11:15am Traditional Worship Service Bible Studies & Fellowship All Week

Walk on water on a paddle board

If you’re looking for something a little different, try stand-up paddle boards. They

1101 Bluebonnet Dr. (Next to H.E.B.) Marble Falls

Continued on page 40

First United Methodist Church

www.fumcmarblefalls.com

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

ADVENTURES

Continued from page 39 look like surfboards but ride flat on the water’s surface as you propel them with a long-handled paddle. • Go Paddle Down rents paddle boards from its location at 120 Main St. in Marble Falls on Wednesday through Sunday. It also delivers. Visit gopaddledown.com or call (830) 220-3027. • Painted Sky Inn, 1400 CR 128 in Silver Creek northwest of Burnet, offers both kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Visit paintedskyinn.com or call (512) 715-9896.

Cruise the country roads on a motorcycle

The Highland Lakes offers motorcycle enthusiasts a lifetime of exploring its windy, picturesque back roads. Here are a few suggestions for great rides: • Park Road 4 from U.S. 281 to Texas 29 • FM 1174 north from RR 1431 to Bertram • FM 962 east from U.S. 281 to RR 3238 (past Hamilton Pool Park) to Texas 71 west of Bee Cave

• RR 2766 east out of Johnson City, past Pedernales Falls State Park to CR 201 to Fitzhugh Road and, eventually, to Texas 290 • FM 1323 west from U.S. 281 (just north of Johnson City) to Texas 16

Top concrete outdoor skate park can be found near Johnson Park in Marble Falls. Staff photo

Kick it at a skate park

• One of the best concrete outdoor skate parks around can be found in Marble Falls at the intersection of Yett and Main streets. The park features 12,000 square feet of concrete and granite. • Cottonwood Shores boasts a nice concrete park at 4121 Brockwood. Called p Squared, the park has a bowl-style structure. • In Burnet, you’ll find a wooden structure-based skate park at Wallace Riddell Park at Texas 29 and Rhomberg Avenue.

Kick back and study the heavens

For a closer look at the stars, join the Austin Astronomical Society Continued on page 41

A True Taste Of Texas

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830-825-3544 706 Shovel Mountain Rd. Cypress Mill, Texas (located just 20 minutes South of Marble Falls)

www.mcreynoldswines.com Fri & Sat 10-6; Sun 12-6 Mon-Thur by appt.

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

ADVENTURES

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Continued from page 40 at a public star party at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Resort, 16942 RR 2341 near Burnet. The resort supports the Eagle Eye Observatory, home of the 16-inch Ealing “Educator” Cassegrain telescope and the 12.5-inch Newtonian telescope. Society members share their own equipment for stargazing as well. Fall and winter parties for 2013-2014 are scheduled for Oct. 26, Nov. 23, Dec. 7, Jan. 25, Feb. 22 and March 2. For exact times, visit austinastro.org or call the resort at (512) 334-2070 or toll free at (800) 977-0081.

Explore the Highland Lakes towns, one step at a time

Park your car one cool fall or winter day in any one of several Highland Lakes towns and take a walking tour. In Llano, a great place to begin exploring is the courthouse square. Surrounding the historic courthouse are several interesting and unique shops. Head up Main Street east across Texas 16, and you’ll discover another line of shops, restaurants and a coffee house. Walk across the bridge to the Railyard District for even more adventure. Also, try the Burnet Courthouse Square, where you might get caught up in a Wild West gunfight on Saturday afternoons. Main Street in Marble Falls is a stroll through an open-air art gallery. In Johnson City, you can follow in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s footsteps.

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Ride a historic steam train

The Austin Steam Train Association’s two trains run most weekends with stops in Burnet or Bertram, depending on which train you board. The historic Hill Country Flyer will take you on a 66-mile round trip from Cedar Park to Burnet. A brief layover in Burnet for lunch and shopping on Saturdays will land you in the middle of a Wild West gunfight, however, so be careful! Order tickets by calling (512) 477-8468 ext. 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday or visiting austinsteamtrain.org. Walk-up tickets go on sale 30 minutes before each train’s departure and can be purchased at the ticket office, 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., Suite A-103, in Cedar Park. Call (512) 925-7570 to check on walk-up availability. The Bertram Flyer is a shorter journey from Cedar Park to Bertram. A 15-min-

ute layover in Bertram gives you just enough time to tour the fully restored 1912 train depot. The Bertram Flyer runs March through November. All seats are reserved and pre-assigned. The train Continued on page 43

Pumpkin patch by Fall ~ Pick your own berries by Spring!

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101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

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Welcome to Jamail’s in Horseshoe Bay, a shopping experience like no other!

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Gourmet Gift Ideas Baskets, Baskets, Steak Steak Boxes, Boxes, Wine Wine & & Cheese, Cheese, Great Great Client Client & & Employee Employee Gift Gift Ideas Ideas

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Continued from page 41

departs Saturday at 10 a.m. and returns at 1 p.m. On Sundays, it departs at 2 p.m. and returns at 5 p.m.

Be part of the Burnet Gunfighters show

The gunfight starts about 1:30 p.m. every Saturday just off the square in Burnet — but not without a presentation and demonstration on gun safety. The shows are Saturdays from January through May and September through November, weather permitting and based on the train schedule for the Hill Country Flyer. Call (512) 756-1872 for specific shootout times. You also can visit the Burnet Gunfighters website at burnetgunfighters.org.

Host a get-together

The Highland Lakes offers lots of unique and traditional venues for holding reunions, including family events, a company get-together or a class reunion. As you’re planning, check out Lakeside Pavilion at Lakeside Park in Marble Falls. The center offers tons of open space and a full kitchen, all overlooking Lake Marble Falls. Visit the city of Marble Falls website at ci.marble-falls.tx.us. In Bertram, give the Iron Star Hall a look. It’s a two-story Texas mercantile structure from 1904 with lots of open areas for your event. Call (512) 705-8533 for more. On the northern edge of the Highland Lakes, the Canyon of the Eagles offers a full range of options, including lodging and dining facilities. The resort includes plenty of space and six rooms for your reunion or event. Visit canyonoftheeagles. com for more. As for things to do during your reunion, keep reading! We’ve got it all right here in 101 Fun Things to do in the Highland Lakes.

in Marble Falls — Free art education for students and adults of all ages, stages and abilities. Topics include painting, sculpting, ceramics, doll making, fiber arts, visual arts and many others. Visit artfrog.org or call (830) 613-0692. • Benini Galleries and Sculpture Ranch, 377 Shiloh Road in Johnson City — Contemporary paintings and sculptures from national and international artists. Call (830) 868-5244 or visit sculptureranch.com. • Bernie Sachs Art/Picture This — 905 Third St., Marble Falls — Quality custom framing, all media. Original watercolors, limited print editions and commissioned works. Contact Sachs at bernie@berniesachsart.com or (830) 613-6611. • Buchanan Arts and Crafts, 17534 Texas 29 West in Buchanan Dam — A cooperative with two dozen artists showing original arts and crafts. Works include watercolor, oil and acrylics, wreaths, knitting, ornaments, mosaics and horse-hair pottery. Call (512) 793-2858 or visit buchananartsandcrafts.org. • Bunkhouse Gallery at Wenmoh’s Ranch, 573 Old Spicewood Road in Cypress Mill — Artist retreats, classes and workshops in a bucolic setting along Cypress Creek. Call (512) 517-3453 or visit wenmohsranch.com.

Daniel Adams, owner of Daniel Adams Fine Arts Gallery showcases his work and painting techniques. Staff photo by Connie Swinney • Dan Pogue Sculpture Gallery and Foundry Inc., 7670 RR 1431 East in Smithwick — Provides guided tours showing the creation process of bronze sculptures by artist Dan Pogue. Call (830) 693-9544, visit www. danpoguesculpture.com or email dan@ danpoguescultpure.com. • Daniel Adams Fine Art Gallery, 17617 Texas 29 East in Buchanan Dam — Oil and watercolor paintings and drawings. Call (956) 432-2262. • Grid Iron Gallery, 112 E. Main St. in Llano — The painting gallery and studio displays Jack Moss’ paintings, which focus on the color and tradition of the American West. Call (325) 247-3013 or visit thegridirongallery.com. • Harmony School of Creative Arts, 1503 Mormon Mill Road in Marble Falls — A nonprofit school with classes in visual, performing and musical arts. Call (830) 693-1791 or visit harmonyarts.org. Continued on page 44

From the decor to the warm hospitality... ... an authentic Mexican dining experience.

Explore the inner artistry of Highland Lakes

Both local and out-of-town artists are constantly inspired by the natural beauty of the Highland Lakes. Area galleries often host exhibits and workshops. Galleries in the area include: • Art Frog Academy, 301 Main St., Suite 200,

Mon - Sat 11am-9pm

101 E. Grayson St. - Llano - 325.247.3730 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

• Uptown Blanco Art Center, 317 Main St. in Blanco — Fine arts gallery, classes and art supplies. Call (830) 833-1579 ext. 220 or visit uptownblanco.com.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Continued from page 43

• Highland Arts Guild and Gallery, 318 Main St. in Marble Falls — Visiting artists give demonstrations the third Thursday of the month at this co-op. Call (830) 693-7324 or visit highlandartsguild.org.

• Also, visit www.artandwine.org for locations of several art galleries in Spicewood along Texas 71, including the Living Desert Cactus and Glass, Linda Rauch Gallery, Martha League-Calhoun, Dunten Gallery, Bob Creek Studios, Dunten Studios, Gallery at Spicewood and Shade Tree Potter and Spicewood Spines Nursery & Art Gallery.

• Kingsland House of Arts and Crafts, 112 Chamberlain St. in Kingsland — A variety of handcrafted items and original art. Call (325) 388-6159 or visit kingslandcrafts.com. • Kirchman Gallery, 213 N. Nugent St., and Western Art & Artifacts, 305 E. Main St. (U.S. 290) in Johnson City — Specialize in contemporary fine art, including photography, paintings, drawings and sculptures. Call (830) 868-9290 or visit kirchmangallery.com. • Llano Fine Art Guild Inc., 503 Bessemer Ave. in Llano — Works by local artists in oils, watercolors, pastels, photography, ceramics and sculptures. Call (325) 2474839 or visit llanofineartsguild.com. • Lou Quallenberg Photography, 1501 Flag St. in Llano — Commercial photography and contemporary mesquite-wood furniture. Call (325) 247-4304 or visit www. louqart.com.

Leah Nash dyes a T-shirt at Art Frog Academy. Staff photo by Daniel Clifton • Marta Stafford Fine Art, 200 Main St. in Marble Falls — Contemporary fine art, paintings and sculpture. Call (830) 6939999 or visit martastaffordfineart.com. • Sculpture on Main, historic Main Street in downtown Marble Falls — A yearround, public art program sponsored by the Uptown Marble Arts Alliance. Call (830) 693-9544 or visit historicmainstreet. org or www.danpoguesculpture.com.

Experience a taste of...

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This season’s productions of the Fredericksburg Theater Company include “The Miracle Worker” on Oct. 11-27, “Sanders Family Christmas” on Dec. 12-22 and “Little Shop of Horrors” on Feb. 21-March 9. The all-volunteer theater company stages musicals, comedies and dramas yearround in the Steve W. Shepherd Theater, 1668 U.S. 87 South in Fredericksburg. Tickets are available online and at the box office. Visit fredericksburgtheater.org or call (830) 997-3588.

Cotton to the Hill Country Community Theatre

Known as a showplace for budding thespians, the Hill Country Community Theatre is an all-volunteer, nonprofit venue that features a foyer/lounge and nearly 150 seats, each with an excellent view of the stage. This season’s schedule includes “The Curious Savage” on Dec. 5-15 and “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” on Feb. 13-23. The Cottonwood Shores playhouse, 4003 FM 2147, can be reached by calling (830) 693-2474. Visit thehcct.org for more.

Sometimes you need a little

extra money for the FUN THINGS IN LIFE! Loans Up To

See shining stars at the Fredericksburg community theater

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Bounce around the Highland Lakes

Inflatable Wonderland in Burnet is an indoor bounce-house extravaganza with a plethora of jumpy inflatables. Children ages 10 and younger can bounce all day — even if they come and go — for one price. Continued on page 45

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Continued from page 44

Inflatable Wonderland, 209 Sure Cast Drive in Burnet behind Cecil Atkission Motors on U.S. 281, has birthday and other party packages as well. And if you’re looking for a few bounce houses or moonwalks for off-site events, Inflatable Wonderland has just about every imaginable inflatable for rent. You can pick it up, or, for an additional cost, the staff will deliver and set it up. Visit iwburnet.com or call (512) 756-2700.

Witness wildlife at Johnson City Exotic Zoo

With more than 500 animals from over 80 species, the Exotic Resort Zoo in Johnson City offers plenty of animals to see and even touch. Take your little ones to meet, greet and feed baby deer, llamas and kangeroos at the petting zoo. A tram tour takes you on a drive through wooded acres around several small lakes and creeks. The 137-acre farm operates four trams from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the last tour leaving at

5:30 p.m. Tours begin when you get there. You can even hold your next birthday party at the Exotic Resort Zoo! Located at 235 Zoo Trail just four miles north of Johnson City on U.S. 281, the zoo is available for field trips, too. Call (830) 868-4357 or visit zooexotics.com.

Browse the latest works of art at Sculpture on Main

Sculpture on Main, an outdoor art exhibit, begins its seventh year this October when the latest juried pieces are installed along Main Street in Marble Falls. This year’s works include the old U.S. 281 bridge sculpture at the Marble Falls Visitors Center, 100 Ave. G. Named “Bridging our Historic Past with a Vibrant Future,” the piece was created by Marble Falls artist Jairo Lopez, the pastor of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. While the bridge piece is permanent, the other works of art dotting the downtown stretch of Main Street only will be on view for a year.

Continued on page 46

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hot line at (830) 798-TIME (8463) or visit showbizcinemas.com.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Continued from page 45

Let’s go to the movies!

ShowBiz Cinemas-Marble Falls 8 features first-run movies in 2-D, 3-D and even 4-D. Located at 2600 U.S. 281 North in Marble Falls, ShowBiz Cinemas is an eight-screen movie theater with stadium seating, thundering digital sound and a full-service snack bar. For movie times and listings, call the movie

Get in the beat with live music

Here in the Highland Lakes, you can find live music just about any night (or day) of the week. One thing you can count on for some good, down-home music is the Llano Country Opry at the LanTex Theater, 113 W. Main St. in Llano. The Heart of Texas

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Country Music Association produces a show each month at the historic theater. On Nov. 9, the Quebe Sisters Band performs at 7:30 p.m. For the holiday season, check out “A Tropical Christmas with The Bellamy Brothers” on Dec. 14. Shows are 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Call (325) 247-5354 or visit lantextheater.com. Also in Llano, Fuel Coffee House, 106 E. Main St., hosts regular performances starting at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m., depending on the entertainer. You can catch the Lake Bottom Jazz Combo the second Tuesday of the month as well as Keenan’s Eclectic Stuff, Harold and Friends and W.C. Jameson on other Tuesday nights. Visit fuelcoffeehouse.wordpress.com or call (325) 2475272.

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Continued on page 47

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Continued from page 46

In Marble Falls, take in TexAmericana Tuesdays at River City Grille, 700 First St. Local singer-songwriters Mike Blakely and Larry Nye typically headline the event with special guests each week. No cover. On Wednesdays at River City Grille, john Arthur martinez entertains in Spanish and English, also with special guests and no cover. Call (830) 798-9909 or visit www. rivercitygrilletx.com. Catch more live music at Doc’s Fish Camp and Grill on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 6:30 p.m. Billy Bahama and Renee play each Thursday evening. A variety of musicians are available on other nights. No cover for any! In Spicewood, you’ll want to check out the happenings of the Spicewood Arts Society, which brings in some unique and talented musical performers each year. Visit spicewoodarts.org or call (512) 264-2820.

Grab your camera to capture the memories

No matter what time of year, the Highland Lakes serves as a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Whether you pose your subjects in front of Enchanted Rock to the west or the rolling plains of Oakalla to the east, you’ll find a variety of landscapes to explore through your viewfinder. Each community — and lake — has its own iconic look and feel that can make every shot a one-of-a-kind memory.

9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at the church. You can join them to help quilt for a good cause. Call (512) 793-6800.

Get hitched in the Highland Lakes

The Highland Lakes is the perfect place for a wedding. You’ll find numerous venues from Canyon of the Eagles on the northeast shore of Lake Buchanan to the wineries throughout the area. Many wineries even offer wedding planning and related services. Another option is Lakeside Pavilion, 307 Buena Vista Drive in Marble Falls, overlooking Lake Marble Falls. The venue includes a kitchen, a dining area and indoor and outdoor options for exchanging your vows. Visit ci.marble-falls.tx.us. You can find a more rustic, outdoor setting at one of the area’s state parks or Reveille Peak Ranch near Burnet. The ranch has a great hilltop site with panoramic views of the Hill Country. Or you could choose the incredible pavilion adjacent to a natural-spring lake. The pavilion includes an entertainment stage, a dance floor, outdoor fire pits, a full-service kitchen and lots

of other amenities. Visit rprtexas.com. And keep flipping through this edition of 101 Fun Things to do in the Highland Lakes for other great ideas for the honeymoon and beyond!

‘Cache’ in on this modern-day treasure hunt

Geocaching is a modern twist on treasure hunting, combining the outdoors with technology. In geocaching, you use a GPS device or a smartphone application to navigate to specific GPS coordinates. Once you arrive at the coordinates, the challenge is to find the actual “X,” or treasure. Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 near Burnet, is hosting geocaching workshops throughout the fall. During the workshop, staff will demonstrate how geocaching works to individuals, groups and families. You can locate cache coordinates on various websites, including geocaching.com. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department hosts the Texas State Parks Geocache Challenge. Find those points at www.texasstateparks. org/geocache. Call Inks Lake State Park at (512) 793-2223 for more information or dates.

Learn the fine art of quilting

The Marble Falls Quilt Club meets 9:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month (except December) at First United Methodist Church, 1101 Bluebonnet Drive in Marble Falls. In Llano, The Country Quilt Shop, 100 Exchange, carries a full line of quilting products. The experienced staff can answer your quilting questions, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter. Visit quiltshopinthecountry.com for a list of events, classes and other activities throughout the year. Ask the staff about the Texas Hills Quilters, which meets 11 a.m. the third Monday of the month. The Genesis Piecemakers get together at Genesis Lutheran Church, 15946 Texas 29 East in Buchanan Dam, to make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. Members meet

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

Special servings on tap in the Highland Lakes BY ALECIA ORMSBY

Laws adopted by the Texas Legislature last spring have opened up the tap for microbreweries in the Highland Lakes. This fall, Save the World Brewing Co. will open its doors to join the Double Horn Brewing Company, which has been serving hand-crafted beers since 2011. Texas law designates Double Horn, 208 Ave. H in Marble Falls, as a brewpub, where customers can drink beer on site or take it home in a growler, a container you can refill with beer for your home refrigerator. Double Horn doubles the pleasure — and service — with a full menu of delicious food, including appetizers, sandwiches, steaks, sausage and beer-battered fish and chips. “We wanted a place for people to enjoy our beer and thought that Marble Falls needed it,” says Dusty Knight, who runs the place with brewmaster Eric Casey. “We brew it at the restaurant in the main dining area, where customers can watch the process through a glass partition.” Double Horn brews about five to seven beers at a time. One of its brews, the Antler Amber, won the Gold Medal Award at the Los Angeles International Beer Competition last year. With about 300 barrels brewed per year, there are customer favorites. Watermelon Wheat is made by adding melons to a wheat beer. It is served in June and late August/ early September. “It sells out in three weeks,” Knight says.

We wanted a place for people to enjoy our beer and thought that Marble Falls needed it.” — Double Horn Brewery

LOCAL MICROBREWERIES

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OPEN EVERY THURSDAY 10AM - 6PM • SATURDAY 10AM - 4PM 48

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

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New beer in town Save the World Brewing Co., located in the Marble Falls Business and Technology Park on U.S. 281 north of town, is a production brewer that, before the change in law, only could give free samples to visitors. Now, it can sell beer for on-site drinking. You can take a free tour on Saturdays and play games, including horseshoes and washers. Plans are in the works to add food trucks to the location to serve refreshments, owner David Rothcamp says. “We’ll have two lines of beer, everyday beer and aged beer, with four varieties each,” says Rothcamp about his Belgium-type beers. “They are full-bodied and flavorful, malty and sweet but not so hoppy or bitter flavored.” He compliments the local water with its strong alkalinity. The beer must be consumed on site, but Rothcamp hopes to have bottled beer in Highland Lakes stores by the end of 2013 or the beginning of 2014. Profits from the brewery visit organizations that address childhood poverty.

TASTY PLACES IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Head to Llano for world-class BBQ at Cooper’s Bar-B-Que, then stop by the Blue Bonnet Café in Marble Falls for a delicious slice of lemon meringue pie. Courtesy photo BY ALECIA ORMSBY

Perhaps the most storied restaurant in the Highland Lakes is the Blue Bonnet Café, 211 U.S. 281 in Marble Falls. Established in 1929, the Blue Bonnet is known for its home cooking, including homemade biscuits and gravy, chicken-fried steak and an incredible 15-pie selection. Be sure to stop by between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. for pie happy hour. “People think of pie or chicken-fried steak when they hear Blue Bonnet Café,” says Dave Plante, the café’s manager and son-in-law of owners John and Belinda Kemper. “It has a home feel with down-home cooking.” Steaks and seafood Another delicious family-owned restaurant in Marble Falls is Doc’s Fish Camp and Grill, 900 RR 1431. Here for 20 years, the restaurant prepares a variety of steaks and seafood that you may order grilled, sautéed, fried, stuffed, blackened or broiled. It also offers a wide selection of desserts and drinks. “Simplicity is our key to success,” owner Bill Stohler says. “We buy the best raw and fresh ingredients and prepare all of our sauces, stuffings and marinades fresh each day.”

Barbecue galore! Called the barbecue capital of the world, the Texas Hill Country serves up some of the best barbecue! One of many noted restaurants is Cooper’s Old Time Pit BarB-Que, 604 W. Young St. in Llano. This restaurant is all about the meat, serving it from a huge, outdoor mesquite grill each day. You stop by the grill on your way in to pick out your selection of ribs, brisket, chicken, cabrito, sausage, steaks or “the chop” as well as additional sides and desserts. Other great barbecue names in the Hill Country include Opie’s in Spicewood and Inman’s, Ken’s and Peete’s in Marble Falls. Tex-Mex is another local tradition with many restaurants from which to choose. At The Maxican, 3401 U.S. 281 South in Burnet, you’ll find everything from grilled chicken, steak and ribs to fish tacos, enchiladas and down-home hamburgers. This family-owned restaurant has been in business since 1999. “There’s no time that people in a group haven’t found something they want to eat on the menu,” says Amber Cardenas, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Max. “Being able to offer a wide variety to guests is appealing.”

The newly restored Sandstone Street Bed & Breakfast awaits your arrival with tasteful period accomodations. Within walking distance to the historical downtown area and the beautiful Llano River.

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101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

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Pick your produce at a farmers’ market

The Llano Farmers’ Country Market gathers at Crenwelge Park on the banks of the Llano River every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. through most of the fall. In Burnet, the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners host one of the longest-running local markets Saturdays from about 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Burnet market is open until Nov. 23. Just down the road in Bertram, a farmers’ market is open Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 1450 Texas 29. In Marble Falls, check out the farmers’ market in the Crownover Feed Barn parking lot, 1810 RR 1431, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

SLEEP

Plan a stay in beautiful bed-and-breakfasts

LAKE BUCHANAN Lakeside Lodge (on East Lake Buchanan) 201 Lakewood Drive Burnet, Texas 78611 Phone: (512) 756-4935 Email: lakesidelodge@281.com or Facebook Online: www.lakesidelodgetx.com or Facebook Six miles from Reveille Peak Ranch Continued on page 51 50

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

SLEEP

Continued from page 50 and three miles from the Vanishing Texas River Cruise and the Canyon of the Eagles. Provides a full breakfast. Specializes in couple and adult retreats. Rainbow Hearth Sanctuary (on north East Lake Buchanan) 1330 Waterway Lane Burnet, Texas 78611 Phone: (512) 756-7878 Email: mariah@rainbowhearth.com Online: www.rainbowhearth.com Organic breakfasts, lunches and dinners daily. Specializes in stress-relieving body work with on-site spa therapies, a hot tub and activities. Located in the middle of a nature park with a gorgeous trail system and beautiful views. Painted Sky Inn (on the eastern shore of Lake Buchanan) 1400 CR 128 Burnet, Texas 78611 Phone: (512) 715-9896 Online: www.paintedskyinn.com Has 11 newly renovated lakeside cabins and a small RV park. Each cabin is equipped with a kitchen. Pet-friendly.

Lake Travis

(Marble Falls and Spicewood) Bella Vista Bed and Breakfast 1455 Cimarron Ranch Road Marble Falls, Texas 78654 Phone: (830) 798-0818 Email: mary@bellavistabedandbreakfast.com Online: www.bellavistabedandbreakfast.com On 35 acres overlooking Lake Travis. Pet-friendly with satellite service. Nonsmoking. Choose between any of three guest rooms or a two-bedroom cottage with a full kitchen and a living room. Continental breakfast is optional. Chanticleer Cabins (Includes Chanticleer Log Cabin, Dal Nonno) 530 Lost Cove Drive Spicewood, Texas 78669 Phone: (830) 693-4269 Email: Chanticleer_bb@yahoo.com Online: www.chanticleerlogcabin.com • Chanticleer Log Cabin is a private, restored log cabin on 26 acres on Lake Travis with a screened porch and a fireplace. Features line-dried linens, homemade cookies and granola, a kitchenette and a gas grill.

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Continued on page 52 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

SLEEP

Continued from page 51 • Dal Nonno is a secluded cabin in the woods on 80 acres with a private hot tub tucked in the trees, a gas grill, a queen pillow-top with duvet and line-dried linens, robes, a living room with a flat-screen TV/ DVD/CD player and a kitchenette. Also homemade cookies, granola and breakfast options.

Pitch a tent or rent a cabin for Hill Country camping

Inks Lake State Park is a notable pristine getaway. Located just outside Burnet on Park Road 4 a few miles west of U.S. 281, the park is on 1,200 acres with setups to accommodate the largest RVs, small cabins and rustic campsites. Call (512) 793-2223. For primitive-camping excursions, visit Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located south of Llano and north of Fredericksburg at 16710 RR 965 near the county line. Call (830) 685-3636. You also can check out Colorado Bend State Park, located near Bend. Call (325) 628-3240. Pedernales Falls State Park has camp-

sites with amenities. Head east from Johnson City on FM 2766 until you find the entrance. Call (830) 868-7304. Also, visit Blanco State Park, located just off U.S. 281 in Blanco. Call (830) 833-4333.

Stay the night in a local hotel

With so many things to do in the area, we know you can’t get it all done in a day, or even two. Set up your fun headquarters in a Highland Lakes hotel before you begin exploring all the great 101 things we have lined up. For a listing of local hotels and motels, check out The Picayune Area-Wide Phone Book.

Find your piece of Hill Country heaven

Whether you’re looking for a place to call home, a summer or weekend retreat or some property for down the line, you’ll find it in the Highland Lakes. Check out the real estate listings in The Picayune every Wednesday. You’ll find a complete list of agents in The Picayune Area-Wide Phone Book. Or visit highlandlakesrealtors.com for help finding the right professional. We know you’ll love living here. And we’d love to have you, neighbor.

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Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

Plan for a romantic evening or a big event at Canyon of the Eagles. Courtesy photo

Bring your home to the hills in an RV

Whether you plan to stay a few days or several months, recreational vehicles offer lots of flexibility and many of the comforts of home. Here’s a list of facilities for RVs as well as cottages. • Beachcomber Park, 8138 RR 261, Buchanan Dam — On the Lake Buchanan waterfront, with boat ramps, a fish-cleaning station, a laundry room and a small bathroom with a shower. Has 50 back-in RV sites, 10 pull-through sites, five fully furnished kitchenette-style beachfront cabins and tent sites. Complete with 20/30/50 amp connections and daily, weekly and monthly rates. Includes boat slips and docks in a protected cove. Call (800) 3793083 or visit lakebuchananrv.com. • Big Chief RV Resort, 1420 FM 690, Burnet — Deluxe, premium and waterfront RV sites that average 12 feet wide and 40-60 feet long. On Lake Buchanan waterfront with a swimming area, 30/50 amp connections, a general store, a laundry/fitness room, a TV/game room, a club house, a boat ramp, a covered pavilion and a 24-hour courtesy patrol. Call (512) 793-4746 or visit bigchiefrvresort.com.

• Blanco Settlement Country Cabins and RV Park, 1705 RR 165, Blanco — Has 10 acres on the Blanco River with riverfront views from each of its 20 pull-through RV sites and nine cabins. A gift shop and other amenities are available. Visit blancosettlement.com, call (830) 833-5115 ext. 0 or email info@blancosettlement.com. • Canyon of the Eagles Lodge & Nature Park, 16942 RR 2341, Burnet — Includes Eagle Eye observatory, a conference center, a restaurant and lodging as well as camping and RV facilities. Call (800) 977-0081 or

(512) 334-2070 or visit canyonoftheeagles. com. • Cedar Lodge Waterfront Resort, 1400 Texas 261, Buchanan Dam — Four-way RV sites, two-way pop-up sites and cabins on or near Lake Buchanan waterfront. Access to on-site laundry facilities and wireless Internet. A party room/meeting facility and a pavilion with room for 60 or more people are available. Call (512) 793-2820, email cedarldg@ gmail.com or visit cedarlodge.info. Continued on page 54

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325.388.6331 www.RioVistaResort.com

Big Rig Friendly • Full Hookup Sites • Boat Launch & Slips • Swimming & Fishing Free WI-FI & Cable TV • Annual/Seasonal Sites • Good Sam Top 100 rated

2322 N. Wirtz Dam Rd., Marble Falls, TX 78654 • 830-798-8199 • WWW.SUNSETPOINTLBJ.COM 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

SLEEP

Continued from page 53 • Edgewater Resort, 224 S. Winding Way, Buchanan Dam — Features 37 RV sites with four-way hookups, a rec room, a lighted fishing pier and a store with bait, tackle, ice and drinks. Sits on Lake Buchanan with a boat launch. Also has 13 cottages available. Call (512) 793-2818, email theedge@ tstar.net or visit the-edgewater.com. • Fort Mason City Park, U.S. 87 south of the Mason square — Has 29 hookups and all types of camping, complete with a new laundry as well as access to the fairgrounds. RV sites include several pull-throughs and back-ins. Wi-Fi Internet access available. Call (325) 347-2064. • Galloway-Hammond Parks and Recreation Center, 1601 S. Water St. (U.S. 281), Burnet — It’s first-come, first-served for the 20 RV spots at this facility just south of downtown Burnet. Includes a laundry room, electric, water and sewer hookups as well as cable TV. Adjacent to hiking trails and Delaware Springs Golf Course. Call (512) 756-6180 or visit gallowayhammond.com.

• Granite Rock RV Park, 1015 Davis St., Kingsland — Seven of this park’s eight granite-gravel RV sites are pull-through. Each site has an 8-foot-by-16-foot patio. Offers 20/30/50 amp connections with sewer and city water. Recently remodeled clubhouse. Call (325) 388-8900 or visit www.graniterockrvpark.com.

• Hofbrau RV Park, 102 Alpine Drive on U.S. 281 seven miles south of Marble Falls — Full-service RV park with 25 sites, 20/30/50-amp connections and laundry facilities. RV sites are up to 20 feet wide and 75 feet long. Call (830) 5962073, email mueller734@yahoo.com or visit hofbrau-rvpark.com.

• Heart of Texas Lake Resort, 408 Clen Oak Parkway, Burnet — Has 24 RV sites and a variety of rental units, cabins, condos, a lakehouse, miniature golf and a lodge. Lighted, covered fishing dock and wireless Internet in designated places. On 510 feet of shaded waterfront on Lake LBJ. Call (512) 756-7766, fax (512) 756-2301, email heartex@moment. net or visit heartoftexaslakeresort.com. • Hidden Falls Adventure Park, 7030 RR 1431 East, Smithwick — Primitive tent and RV sites at Area B (no electric, water or sewer services), improved sites for tents and pop-ups with 120-volt, 20-amp electricity as well as RV sites with electric, water and sewer hookups. Water is only for washing and bathing. RV sites have 30-amp and 50-amp electric service, water and sewer. Reservations are not required but are a good idea for holidays. Call (830) 798-9820 or visit hiddenfallsadventurepark.com.

• Inks Lake State Park on Inks Lake, Park Road 4 near Burnet and six miles west of U.S. 281 — Has 137 RV spaces and 50 water-only sites for tents. Wireless Internet available. Reservations are required at (512) 389-8900.

Year ‘Round Family Fun On Lake LBJ

New docks to accommodate 24 ft boats

325-388-4418 800-786-9146

• Park-Like Grounds • Launch Ramp • Bait & Tackle • Off-Hwy Quiet • Covered Boat Docks • Swimming Pool • Enclosed Fishing • Jacuzzi Dock • Kitchenettes • Singles, 1-2-3 Bedrooms

814 Euel Moore Dr.

Kingsland, TX 78639

LAKESIDE RESORT

www.valentinelakeside.com

FREE Wi-Fi!

Reunions Welcome!

Fully Furnished Cabins & RV Park on the Water Drive-Thru Spaces • 4-way Hook-Ups • Ramp • Washateria • Showers Large Rec Room w/Kitchen • Pool • Fishing Pier • Bait & Tackle • Store

512-793-2818 512-793-2218fax 224 S. Winding Way, Buchanan Dam, TX 78609

www.the-edgewater.com

Winter Texans Welcome

theedge@tstar.net

Pets Welcome

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

• Inks Lake RV Park, 6161 Texas 29 West in Burnet — Features sites large enough to accommodate double slide-outs, pullthroughs and big rigs. Hookups include water and sewer along with 20/30/50/80amp electric service. Includes a rec room with satellite TV. Visit inkslakervpark.com or call (512) 756-0101 or (512) 756-9955. • Krause Springs, 404 Krause Springs Road, Spicewood — Has 115-acre property listed on the National Registry of Historical Sites. Boasts 32 springs along with a swimming hole. The 24 RV sites have water and electricity. Also a butterfly garden. Visit krausesprings.net or call (830) 693-4181. • Llanorado Lodge, 223 RR 1431, Kingsland — Four-way hookups and 30/50-amp service with boat slips and air-conditioned cabins. Also cable TV, bait and a tackle shop. Visit highlandlakes.com/llanorado or call (325) 388-4823. • Llano River RV Park, 37 Keller Velino Road on the Llano River, 10 miles south of Mason — Offers 46 pull-through sites with full hookups (water, sewer and electricity) and wireless Internet. Also bathrooms and shower facilities. Pet-friendly. Call (866) 640-9696. • Llano River Golf Course and RV Park, located two miles west of Llano on FM 152 at Robinson Park — The 25 RV sites are within walking distance of golfing, swimming and fishing. Straight RV rates or mix in RV/golf rates. Call (325) 247-5100 or visit llanorivergolfcourse.com. • Miller Creek RV Park, 5618 U.S. 281, five miles south of Johnson City — Has 32 big pull-throughs and 22 back-ins with a reverse-osmosis water system, septic and 30/50 amp connections. Free phone and wireless Internet. Features a beautiful Continued on page 55

SLEEP

Continued from page 54 creek with catch-and-release fishing, spa and dry sauna and log cabins. Visit millercreekrvresort.com, call (877) 868-2622 or email at info@millercreekrvresort.com. • Poppy’s Pointe Resort, 400 Emerald Circle, Buchanan Dam — These 41 RV sites accommodate rigs of all sizes. Several have a view of Lake Buchanan, while others are on the cove and the channel. A handful are interior sites. Family-oriented with playscape, disc golf, giant chess, kayaks and other amenities. Call (512) 793- 3922 or visit poppyspointe.net. • Rio Vista Resort, 234 Rio Vista Drive, Kingsland — The 41 RV sites join lakehouses, villas and cottages. The rec room has a full kitchen, laundry facilities and restrooms with showers. Call (325) 3886331 or (800) 846-1864, email riovistaresort@rio-vista-resort.com or visit rio-vista-resort.com. • Riverview RV Park, 200 Old River Road, Marble Falls — On Lake Marble Falls at the bridge on U.S. 281 with 49 paved, level sites, including 20 pull-through sites with

water, sewer and electric hookups. Four boat docks and piers with 650 feet of waterfront. Close to boat ramp and tennis courts. Call (830) 693-3910. • Roadrunner RV Park, 501 U.S. 281 South, Johnson City — Has 44 pull-through sites and 18 back-in sites as well as a club/meeting room. Free wireless Internet. Call (830) 868-7449, visit roadrunnerrvparktexas.com. Email rvpark@moment.net. • Shady Oaks RV Park, 350 Inks Dam Road, Buchanan Dam — Two lighted fishing docks and 57 riverside hookups on 23 acres. The site boasts 1,700 feet of waterfront below Inks Dam on the Colorado River. Call (512) 793-2718 or (877) 423-9625 or visit shadyoaks-rvpark.com. • Sunset Pointe on Lake LBJ, 2322 N. Wirtz Dam Road, Marble Falls — A lakefront RV park on Lake LBJ with 50-plus RV sites on 20 acres. Has three-way hookups, including several premier motor coach sites. It’s big-rig friendly with boat ramps, docks, swimming and fishing. Annual/seasonal/ monthly sites. Hookups are 30-50 amp, free wireless Internet, free cable, lakefront meeting/activity area, a park store, coin laundry and gated entry. Call (830) 798-8199 or visit sunsetpointlbj.com.

“The Best Kept Secret in the Hill Country”

229 S. Pierce • Burnet 512-756-4297

www.burnetchamber.org www.bluebonnetfestival.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS KID’S DAY OUT September 14 BULLDOG THUNDER TRUCK & TRACTOR PULL September 20-21 BURNET BBQ COOK-OFF & MUSIC FEST September 27-28 DAY OUT WITH THOMAS September 28-29 FT. CROGHAN DAY October 12

FALL CITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE November 2 MAIN STREET BETHLEHEM December 6-8 CHRISTMAS ON THE SQUARE December 14 CHRISTMAS AT FT. CROGHAN December 14

MAIN STREET BETHLEHEM December 13-15 31ST BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL April 11-13, 2014 SPRING CITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE May 3, 2014 BURNET COUNTY FAIR June 20-21, 2014 BURNET COUNTY RODEO 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

WILDLIFE

97 Opening NOVEMBER 2013 Produce meat dairy frozen foods dry goods (grocery items) Beer (beer cave) ice fishing supplies swim gear gift items party goods hunt brother’s pizza shop Kellcy’s General Store 4823 W. FM 2147 Cottonwood Shores, TX 78657

LIVE MUSIC

EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT

Bald eagles have long called the Highland Lakes their winter home, nesting here each year from November to April. One eagle couple is even raising its young eaglets in trees between the Llano River and Texas 29 on the road from Llano to Burnet. For the best eagle viewing in the wild, take the Vanishing Texas River Cruise. To view the eagles on Texas 29, the best days are often the rare, rainy days — the birds tend to perch in the branches to wait out the weather. The trees are about 150 feet away from the highway, and there is a good area to pull off on the side of the road and observe.

Grab the binoculars for some birdwatching

In the Highland Lakes, birdwatching is always in season. • Marble Falls Public Library programs — Take a bird walk the first Thursday of the month at 8:30 a.m. beginning at the library, 101 S. Main St., and ending at Johnson Park, 230 Ave. J South in Marble Falls. Also, a program on birds, wildflowers and related topics is 9:30 a.m. the first Thursday of the month at the library. • Breakfast with the Birds Boat Tours — The fee-based tour is in the fall, spring and summer every week at Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West in Burnet County. Pre-registration is required. Call (512) 793-2223.

QUALITY FOOD AFFORDABLE PRICES LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS/WEEK

900 HWY 1431 W. @ HWY 281 • MARBLE FALLS

(830) 693-2245 VOTED BEST SEAFOOD

WWW.DOCSFISHCAMP.COM 56

Winter with the bald eagles

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

The Highland Lakes are a premium spot for birdwatching. Grab a pair of binoculars and enjoy the area’s amazing array of endangered species. Staff photo • Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park and Resort, 16942 RR 2341 near Burnet — A fantastic place to view endangered and threatened birds because of its location on the shores of Lake Buchanan. Call (512) 334-2070 or (800) 977-0081 or visit canyonoftheeagles.com.

Watch out for wildlife

Two great places for wildlife watching are Colorado Bend State Park in Bend and Pedernales Falls State Park outside of Continued on page 57

WILDLIFE

Continued from page 56 Johnson City. Check out the parks section of this magazine for more details. Several Lower Colorado River Authority parks have ample acreages to explore as well. You’ll find coyotes, skunks, fox and other wildlife along with the deer and armadillos.

100

Know your local creepy-crawly creatures

The Highland Lakes has a striking assortment of creepy-crawly creatures. Here is a look at just a few of our favorites, along with a reptile or two you might want to watch out for. Tarantula: This 1½-inch long, non-dangerous hairy spider makes its home under logs or stones and is generally found on the ground. Walking stick: It looks like its name, with eyes, antennae, a mouth and legs. It’s the longest insect in the United States! Daddy long legs: This harmless, longlegged insect (not a spider!) will cluster by the hundreds and can be seen bouncing together in the eaves of a building like a

The walking stick is commonly found in the Highland Lakes. Courtesy photo single organism. Cicada: Cicadas are heard but not usually seen. They live high in the trees and make a loud buzzing sound. Western diamondback rattlesnake: Brown, mottled-skinned rattlers come out in the evening to warm up on sun-heated asphalt. Watch where you step and, if bit, call 9-1-1 to receive immediate medical attention. Gecko: This sticky, flat-footed reptile will speedily run up a post when startled. Snapping turtle: It eats about anything in its path and lives near a body of water with a muddy bottom. It won’t attack, but don’t put your fingers near its mouth. It is named the snapping turtle for a reason. American bullfrog: The noisiest, largest frog species found in the United States loves the Highland Lakes and other bodies of water in the area. They also love to entertain at night.

Your place to unwind in Historic Downtown Marble Falls.

Restorative Skin Care

Massage • Healing Arts • Yoga ✤ Facials ✤ Microderm ✤ Ultrasonic Facials ✤ Chemical Peels ✤ Waxing/Tinting

✤ Massage Therapy ✤ Body Work ✤ Energy Work ✤ Body Treatments ✤ Yoga/Qigong/Self-care

909 Third, Suite B - off Main Street Licensed Aesthetician

LMT / Yoga Teacher

(830) 637-7441 www.marblefallsskincare.com

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013

101

BEST Hamburger Beer on Tap • Server Bartender

hand-crafted cuisine & ales

Join us for TWO DOLLAR TUESDAYS $2 pints all day

830.693.5165 208 Avenue H, Marble Falls, TX

Mon & Tue: 4- 9pm • Wed, Thurs & Sun: 11am - 9pm Fri-Sat: 11 am - 10 pm www.DoubleHornBrew ing.co m

Tee up with a disc

If you’re looking for an excuse to get outside, why not give disc golf a try? While it’s similar to traditional golf, the disc version offers a whole new twist. Instead of setting up a little, dimpled ball on a tee and then whacking it down the fairway with a club, in disc golf, you, well, use a flying disc. Instead of trying to get it in a “hole,” you’re aiming to toss your disc into a basket. While the Highland Lakes boasts numerous traditional golf courses, you also can find a variety of disc golf courses. In Marble Falls, check out the John Houck-designed, nine-hole course at Westside Park located at Second Street and Avenue Q. The city-owned park offers a good mix of lengths and even some elevation changes. Burnet offers two courses. You can find an 18-hole course at the GallowayHammond Recreation Center, 1601 S. Water St. (U.S. 281), that features a short but challenging course. Haley Nelson Park, 301 Garden Trails Drive, offers a

Head over to Lakeside Park in Marble Falls for a round of disc golf. Staff photo nine-hole course. Go to www.cityofburnet.com or www. ci.marble-falls.tx.us for more information on the courses.

Bringing Live Entertainment to the Hill Country February 13-24, 2014

by John Patrick December 5-15, 2013

4003 W. FM 2147 Cottonwood Shores, Tx 830-693-2474 Web:

www.thehcct.org Email:

director@thehcct.org follow us on:

by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore April 24-May 4, 2014 58

Fall/Winter 2013 101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES

April 28-29, 2014

FURNITURE

ADVERTISERS INDEX ART GALLERIES Highland Lakes Arts Guild Gallery.....................................................50 Picture This..............................................................................................15 Pogue Sculpture Gallery & Foundry, Inc...........................................34

ASSISTED LIVING & NURSING HOME FACILITIES Gateway Gardens & Gateway Villa....................................................... 4 Granite Mesa Health Center...............................................................41

ATTRACTIONS & RECREATION Canyon of the Eagles.............................................................................18 Commemorative Air Force Museum.................................................46 Cypress Valley Canopy Tours...............................................................22 Hidden Falls Adventure Park...............................................................10 Hill Country Community Theatre......................................................58 Longhorn Cave Tours, Inc.....................................................................36 Schlitterbahn Resort................................................................................ 5 Sweet Berry Farm..................................................................................41

BANKS First State Bank of Burnet...................................................................55 Hill Country National Bank.................................................................38

BARS & CLUBS Mr. B’s Sports Bar...................................................................................24

CATERING Hey Diddle Diddle Catering & Coffee..............................................36 Saucy’s Restaurant, Catering, Cooking Classes...............................49

CHURCHES First Baptist Church of Marble Falls..................................................46 First United Methodist Church of Marble Falls..............................39 Marble Falls Church of Christ.............................................................15

FESTIVALS Fredericksburg Jaycees..........................................................................45 Llano Crawfish Festival.........................................................................35

NURSERIES & LANDSCAPE

Furniture Brokers on Main...............................................................51 Town & Country Leather..................................................................45 Upscale Home Consignment............................................................38

GIFTS, FASHION & SHOPPING

Backbone Valley Nursery......................................................................16

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Faith Academy.........................................................................................17

Burnet Antique Mall...............................................................................52 It’s All Goode!.........................................................................................19 Kingsland Ace Hardware......................................................................49 La Ti Da/The Rug Queen....................................................................... 7 New Dawn Interiors............................................................................... 9 North Lake Jewelers..............................................................................35 Pottery Ranch.........................................................................................29 Puffy’s.........................................................................................................56 Real Deals on Home Decor................................................................48 Salem’s Fashions & Home Décor.......................................................27 Salem’s Jewelry........................................................................................24 Zippity Do Dolls...................................................................................... 8

GOLF COURSES Lighthouse Country Club....................................................................50

GROCERY STORES Jamail’s.......................................................................................................42 Kellcy’s General Store...........................................................................56

HOTELS, MOTELS, RESORTS & LODGING Canyon Of The Eagles...........................................................................18 Edgewater Resort, The..........................................................................54 Hampton Inn on the Lake....................................................................47 La Quinta Inns & Suites........................................................................12 Log Country Cove.................................................................................60 Rio Vista Resort......................................................................................53 Sandstone Bed & Breakfast..................................................................49 Sunset Point.............................................................................................53 Valentine Lakeside Resort ..................................................................54

HUNTING EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Texas Hill Country Outfitters.............................................................20

MEDIA KBEY 103.9 FM Radio Picayune.........................................................59

REAL ESTATE SALES & DEVELOPERS Jim Berry Hill Country Ranch Sales.................................................... 3 Re/Max of Marble Falls, Zina Rodenbeck.........................................34 The Estates on the River........................................................................ 2

RESTAURANTS Blue Bonnet Café...................................................................................51 China Kitchen.........................................................................................32 Doc’s Fish Camp & Grill.......................................................................56 Double Horn Brewing Company.......................................................58 Holy Smokes BBQ.................................................................................27 Main Street Coffee.................................................................................25 River City Grille.....................................................................................23 Rosita’s Mexican Restaurant................................................................43 Russo’s Texitally Cafe.............................................................................37 Saucy’s Restaurant, Catering, Cooking Classes...............................49 Storm’s......................................................................................................14 Tea Thyme Cafe......................................................................................52 Thai Niyom..............................................................................................28 The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant.........................................44 Whataburger...........................................................................................40

SALONS & SPAS Brenda Morris Restorative Skin Care...............................................57 Sana Vida...................................................................................................33

SERVICES Holiday Finance Corp............................................................................44 Satellite Station Fire & Security..........................................................57 Susie’s Travel Time..................................................................................26

TOURISM & VISITOR INFORMATION City of Marble Falls................................................................................11 Burnet Chamber of Commerce.........................................................55 Map of the Highland Lakes............................................................ 30, 31 Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce................................................13

WINERIES

MOVERS Lakes and Hills Moving/Receiving.......................................................33

McReynolds Wines.................................................................................40

KBEYFM.com

101 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES Fall/Winter 2013