Marble Falls lends itself to an unparalleled backdrop of rolling hills, lake views, and creative opportunities to experience the great outdoors. As is readily evident in this list, there is no shortage of things to do this weekend, so get outside and enjoy the Texas Hill Country!

BY AMY TAYLOR @AAVTAYLOR

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1. Inks Lake State Park Trail

Pack a picnic and set out on a 4.4-mile adventure through Inks Lake State Park. The trail is a popular loop that is primarily used for hiking, walking, running or camping. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on leash. The elevation reaches 347 ft and it is lightly shaded, so wear sunscreen and bring a water bottle, or stop by Wingman Brothers Smokehouse for a large iced tea on your way to the park.

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2. Lakeside Park Beach

Lakeside Park Beach is the ultimate recreation destination centered on the shore of Lake Marble Falls, brandishing the perfect opportunity to put your toes in the sand, float the lake water, enjoy the expansive lawn or even feed the ducks and geese. Enjoy the sunshine and bring a picnic lunch or stop by Elite Meat for something to grill at one of the barbecue pits.

3. Fish at Johnson Park

Retreat to the quiet banks of Johnson Park that line Backbone Creek and Whitman Branch, throw in a line and enjoy the pleasantries of being away from it all in the Texas Hill Country. This may not fuel a meal for hundreds, but it will bring an irreplaceable supply of serenity.

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4. Fiesta Winery 

Grab a glass of rosé or make it a bottle and enjoy the center of Marble Falls with the endearing atmosphere of Old Oak Square. Be sure to look for the Open-Air Market on select weekends and enjoy creative fare from local artisans.

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5. Rent a Canoe or Kayak

Whether you want to canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, Just Yakin supplies the equipment for a memorable day on Lake Marble Falls. Unwind with the creek, soak in the sights and sounds of lake life, and embrace an active lifestyle.

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6. Hidden Falls Adventure Park

Hit the rugged trail on a dirt bike, ATV or full-size vehicle and enjoy an off-road adventure. In addition to all the motorized fun, Hidden Falls features firing ranges and skeet shooting for the outdoorsman or outdoorswoman.

7. Westside Park Disc Golf Course

The creekside disc-golf park showcases a riveting 18-holes designed by fellow golfers to satisfy every disc golf enthusiast. Just off 2nd street, the course is prime for an outing and, in addition, free to play.

8. Hill Country Cruise Drive

Grab a sandwich from Darci’s Deli and take a scenic drive through Inks Lake State Park to Highway 29. This impeccable hill country drive starts in Marble Falls and winds past granite outcroppings and spectacular views of Inks Lake before reaching the grand finale at Backbone Mountain LBJ Memorial Scenic Overlook, also known as “Lookout Mountain.” Take Ranch-to-Market Rd 2342 from Ranch Road 1431 then veer on to Park Road 4W into Inks Lake State Park. Park Road 4W winds all the way back to 29 for an easy return.

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9. Save the World Brewery

Practice responsible social distancing at the outdoor picnic tables just off the popular tasting room at Save the World Brewery. Breathe the fresh air and sip a crisp Belgian-style lager. Tasting Room is open from 12-6pm.

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10. Longhorn Cavern State Park

The popular Cavern Walking Tour descends 130’ below the surface along a path of an ancient underground riverbed to discover a plethora of geologic wonders. The 1.1-mile tour highlights include Crystal City, Queen’s Throne & Watchdog, Underground Ballroom, Moon Room, Hall of Marble, Gallery of Formations, Hall of Diamonds and the Ranger’s Entrance. The tour takes 90-minutes. Online ticketing is available for your convenience.

Prefer to hike above ground? There is the classic 1-mile loop that is well-maintained and appropriate for all skill levels. This trail is also dog-friendly, so bring the pup on a leash.