The Wishbone Bridge in East Austin, which opened on Feb. 7, 2026, completes a 10-mile, uninterrupted loop around Lady Bird Lake, connecting Longhorn Shores and the Holly Peninsula. This $25 million Y-shaped pedestrian bridge and Unity Underpass provide a car-free, scenic path featuring central, shaded plazas with seating, enhancing safety and access for hikers, runners, and cyclists.
Key Features of the Wishbone Bridge & Trail Loop
- Location: The bridge is located at the eastern end of Lady Bird Lake near Longhorn Dam, directly connecting the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
- Design & Amenities: The $25 million “Y-shaped” bridge serves as a landmark with a central, 65-foot-wide plaza, featuring benches made from local trees and overhead structures for climbing vines to provide natural shade.
- The Loop: This project eliminates the need to walk along the sidewalk of South Pleasant Valley Road, creating a seamless 10-mile, traffic-free, and scenic loop around the lake.
- Connectivity: The project includes the Unity Underpass, allowing trail users to bypass traffic underneath South Pleasant Valley Road.
- Maintenance: The structure is owned by the City of Austin and maintained by The Trail Conservancy.
The project was completed four months ahead of schedule.
