Best Unbeaten Path

Shaffer Bend Recreation Area

Just past the county line, by the rustic little hamlet of Smithwick, lies this pleasantly rough-edged LCRA park fronting the very northwest tip of Lake Travis. It's more than 500 acres of semi-developed open space, with more than 5 miles of interlocking trails for foot, hoof, or bike tire, some very challenging, plus room to sprawl out and get your feet wet. While the RV-ready camping areas are usually occupied, in most places most of the time you'll not be lacking in solitude.

Shaffer Bend Recreation Area
706 CR 343A, Marble Falls, 512/473-3366
www.lcra.org/parks/shaffer-bend