Description: White Rock Lake is
the place to go running, rollerblading, or cycling on a sunny afternoon in Dallas. Not only do you have to drive through a beautiful neighborhood to get to the lake to begin with (we're talking
mansions here), the course is sprinkled with water fountains for the thirsty runner or walker. The loop around the lake is just above 9 miles long, mostly on flat land, but there are a few ups and downs around the water control facility that add variety for a distance runner.
I love to go to the lake with my son and husband on the weekends. My son rides his bike in front while my husband and I run a few yards behind him. The paths are wide enough to accommodate all of us, even when we bring the dog. If you're a 5k jogger, start your run from a different parking lot each time you visit the lake so that you'll see all the different sections. (All parking in public lots is free.) You'll find a small dam on one side, which makes a lovely waterfall that you can observe from a small bridge.
While I have not visited--we're always too busy exercising!---I've been told there is also a Bath House Cultural Center on the lake where cultural acivities are held throughout the year. In the summer there are plenty of sailboats on the water, and the shaded areas under the trees are a favorite spot for picnics. A playground overlooks the lake from one side, and it is near bathroom facilities, so it's the perfect place for hanging out with your children.
Also worthy of note: The White Rock Half Marathon and Marathon is a huge event held once a year. The course involves two loops around the lake (plus some!). George W. Bush was actually training for this marathon at one point, but he took ill and postponed his first 26.2 mile effort for a few months until he could have a healthy race in Austin. (Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, if you know anything about running, you've got to respect the President's athletic ability. He's so fast he can outrun half his secret service detail!!!)
You may call the White Rock Lake Center at 670-8749 to check on scheduled activities. The center is closed on Sundays and Mondays, and does not open the rest of the week until 10 AM.
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