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Rosa Perham

Two traveling teachers making the most of school holidays. A bit of climbing, hiking, lots of eating, and travel galore.

Essentially the only climbing area near Dallas, Mineral Wells is a worthwhile drive to get some top-roping in. This easy approach is just down the dirt trail that starts to the right of the parking lot. If you get hungry, you can easily trot back up for snacks and water.

If you're in the area, definitely stop by and check out this place. You'll be out of reception, so know that in advance and take some water with you. Early in the morning or late afternoon is best. Texas summers are blazing. We saw tons of lizards, two tarantulas, a road runner, and a few rabbits (hares?). The hike to the lighthouse is moderate and easy since it's mostly flat. Watch out for snakes and stay on the trail. The view is awesome.

We were on edge, having never seen an alligator before. About halfway down the first loop down towards the observatory, we got distracted by watching the birds and seeing the giant spider webs in the trees and boom, we came across a massive gator hanging out in the ditch to the right. It completely ignored us while we tiptoed by. It was awesome.

Lady Bird Lake, aka Towne Lake, is a must see when visiting Austin. Consider renting kayaks, canoes, row boats, and stand up paddle boards. There's usually a coupon you can find online. Parking can be a bit of a hassle. Consider parking by just past the rowing docks on Stratford on the west side of mopac, south of the lake. Check out Barton Springs and Magnolia Cafe, an Austin favorite after a dip in the water. If you have pups, try the Barton creek off-leash area just east of Barton springs. You park in the Barton springs lot and walk left passed the entrance. Or arboretum shores has an off-leash area. It's on google maps.