Nancy Fuentes In the fourteen years since the last edition of this book, the Austin Sierra Club has led several hard political battles to preserve the outdoor treasures of the area. This guide will help Central Texans and visitors enjoy the fruits of those efforts in accord with the Sierra Club philosophy: "to explore, enjoy, and protect the nation"s forests, waters, wildlife, and wilderness." In this easy-to-use guide, the Austin Sierra Club invites those who love good, clean, earth-friendly fun and healthful exercise to explore the wonders of Central Texas from the Highland Lakes in the north to New Braunfels in the south. Suggestions for outdoor adventure in city and countryside alike feature activities and places to visit in a hundred-mile radius of Austin. The chapters are organized by type of activity: downtown area sights and sounds; parks; active sports such as running, camping, and rock climbing; water sports; air sports; wildlife and pets; nature activities such as star gazing, fossil hunting, and wildflower study; activities for people with special needs; and must-see places such as historic buildings and great vistas. The book also includes several fact-filled appendixes, with information on the Sierra Club, helpful agencies and telephone numbers, and maps. This new edition of Outdoors Austin was written and produced by a committee of volunteers. It reflects their love for the many outdoor resources around Austin and their hope that others will come to love and respect the natural treasures of this unique and privileged land.