Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve — Attraction in Austin

As soon as I heard there were peacocks here, I knew I had to go and last week, I finally had the chance. I wasn't expecting much more then a couple peacocks in a fenced area and the excuse for nature that Texas tends to have. But this was gorgeous. Anything outside of the trail was still pretty sad in comparison to the parks and trails I'm used to in the north what with the sticks and leaves piled up like nothing ever deteriorates here. But the nature that was there was very green, somewhat sparse but lush for Texas standards. Unfortunately many of the flowers weren't in bloom along the trails but we still got to see a good amount and there were a lot of screaming kids but there were points in the trails where we got far enough to enjoy the serenity of nature. The tails are diverse and long with a lot of photo opportunities and a lovely little creek. There are lovely carved steps and interesting ways of getting across this creek. The peacocks tend to stay within the garden area but are not confined so we are able to get really good pictures while still respecting their boundaries and enjoying the scenery. There are multiple plots with blooming flowers next to a multi-pooled koi pond and a couple interesting peices of architecture. Glad I finally got to see it and I hope to be able to visit another time when more flowers are in bloom and kids...

Visit early morning or late evening. Due to nature of the park, it may be hot. Parking is free and usually not filled out..if it is you can park on the street. This is amazing place to visit with friends and family because it has two different attractions here. One is actual park with peacocks and garden and other one is multiple trails. Directions are bit loose on Trails so take a picture trail maps. One with white door is the entrance of garden while next to borders or through garden is Trails. Trails are bit hard to follow as there aren't dedicated signs to follow at all times. For example, you can start at one trail however, in the middle the trail, it will split into two ways and you just have to try both and see which one is most utilized or right way to go..however, you will not get lost as people are walking by and trails are short. You will have good view of lake and amazing pictures to take and explore. Bring atleast 3 gallons of water. Rest rooms are actively maintained and water fountain is not available. Portable restrooms are available but as you can guess, they are...

A beautiful place for a walk/hike. The park has two parts, the park out front and the nature preserve in the back. The park portion is suitable for all ages with stone paved paths, water features, and peacocks. The peacocks don't seem to pay much attention to the people who visit the park which is fine by me. I honestly would have found it freaky if they swarmed me or something. The Nature Preserve in back is, in my opinion, the real gem of this park. The paths are not too rigorous and it makes for a nice hike. However, the trails in the nature preserve section often have roots cutting across the walkways. There are also with stairs in some places with no alternative paths and some of the "bridges" over the creek are precarious. In other words, the nature preserve section is not suitable for all ages. Those with unsure footing or those who are young enough to be in a stroller are probably best off avoiding this area. I personally found the nature preserve to be most enjoyable, but it is not for everyone due to limited...