Every Town Needs a Trail

by Jen Ohlson, Steve Wilgren (Illustrator), Mariel Falbo (Editor)

Every Town Needs a Trail celebrates the lore and heritage of Austin s Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail that was inspired by the vision and leadership of Mrs. Lady Bird Johnson. It is a cultural story, a scenic story, an environmental story, and a universal story about the deep need in all of us to maintain and cherish our nation s open spaces, which in turn, shape the essence of our very own being.

Since that groundbreaking December day in 1971, when Lady Bird began her quiet legacy of helping create a simple walking path along the banks of the Colorado River, the Town Lake Trail has transformed into one of Austin s most beloved resources. It elevates its residents and visitors alike with its tranquility, inspires with its calmness, and galvanizes an entire city with its energy and beauty.

Every Town Needs a Trail features inspirational interviews with some of Austin s most distinguished residents over the past three decades who are among the thousands of people who have enjoyed the Trail on a daily basis, along with beautiful scenic photographs of the Trail by Russ Ohlson, Brenda Lindfors and friends of the Trail.

Experience the magic of the Town Lake Trail. Share in the wisdom of some of its most inspirational residents. Enjoy the story about a Trail with an amazing past, a vibrant present and the hope of a perpetual future. The following pages will be your guide along the path of Austin's crown jewel -- a path to live by and a place to be well.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2007

Reviews

[Bex · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about the place where I run almost everyday. It is about the people who built the trail and who have since spent years using it. It is also about some of the political forces behind keeping it a place for the people of Austin. It is full of beautiful photography that captures the real beauty of one of the best loved places in all of Austin. This should be owned by every Austinite who loves the Hike & Bike Trail, Lady Bird Trail or simply the Trail.

[Jack · Rating 2 out of 5]

PR fluff for the city of Austin. Purty pictures.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book as a reminder of Austin. Not to mention the collective community represented by the book.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great coffee table book to have to remind you of Austin.