So glad I found this trail! It's ducked off in a neighborhood off grand avenue/ wells branch area. Perfect place for a walk, a jog, or to just come chill & clear your mind. semi shaded area with plenty of trees through out. there were wild flowers, ponds with people fishing, swings, restrooms, basket ball courts, small stair cases, a play scape , picnic tables ,& plenty of open space. parking is the only down fall as the designated lot holds about 10 or so cars. definitely enjoyed my time here and can't wait to come back. read more

See all

I was out looking for new places to hike and found this pond. It is a nice small park with a little pond that you can actually fish in with Texas State Fishing License. There are lots of places to sit as well, if you just want to be outdoors. There are several tables to eat at too, so bring a picnic basket. The trail is dirt therefore less stress on your knees. You can also bring dogs but they must be leashed. There is a small dock and a gazebo that juts out into the water so you can fish off these if you want. So for a relaxing walk with fresh air stop by Mills Pond. read more

See all

Mills Pond is a beautiful place for a little getaway. I enjoyed the walking trails while hubby did a little fishing - didn't catch anything but the purpose was mostly therapeutic. Everyone we encountered was so pleasant - even from the dogs - stopping by to say hi to our fur baby, Billy Bob. The overall ambiance is peaceful and refreshing. I look forward to the next visit - highly recommended. read more

See all

Small lake, beautiful trails and a lot of birds. I will definitely recommend this place if you are into bird watching or bird photography. I was able to see Cooper's hawk, Great horned owl, Titmouse, Blue Jay and many more birds on a weekend morning walk. The trails were a little busier than you would usually expect. But as the place is so inside the city, it wasn't surprising. If you follow google maps for navigation, it takes you to a parking lot which has limited spots. I have seen people do roadside parking outside. read more

See all

It's a nice small residential park tucked away in a subdivision. There is a small gabezo area, a scenic pound, and a loose gravel path that loops around. There are plenty of trash cans and doggy bags. It is a great spot for photos or for taking a pit stop if you happen to be on a road trip. Due to its residential nature, it is very safe! We had read reviews of other parks that had indicated potential break-ins of cars. We are in the process of moving cross country, so with all of our stuff packed away in the car it would have been a disaster if something of the sort were to have happened. Thankfully, we stumbled across this gem. Our dog was able to enjoy a quick run to stretch his legs before we got back on the open road. read more

See all

Really? "Great place for a relaxing (or not so relaxing) walk :)"? That's ALL I wrote in my original review of this gem? How lazy is that? Mills pond is an almost daily excursion for me. I love the peacefulness of a morning walk, or a mid-day walk if I get the chance. The pond is pretty small, but it's a pond - it doesn't claim to be a lake - it's a pond. It's a nice water feature in the awesomeness that is Wells Branch. Many different ducks live here and they're fun to watch. Please don't feed them bread, though. It's not good for them. :( It's usually pretty quiet here. I've never seen it overcrowded,. I like to bring friends here when they visit. It's a really nice walking trail, partially shaded, with a woodsy part away from the pond, and some sunny spots as well. My dogs love their walks here. The hiking trail also connects with other parts of Wells Branch. Poopy bags are available throughout the walk and let me tell you - these are not cheapie low quality poopy clean-up bags. It's like the Cadillac of poopy bags. I'm almost excited to use them. Almost...not really. But hey... When they gotta go, these are the best I've seen. It's especially nice to see the pond fill up after we've had some rain. The ducks are so happy. read more

Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

A nice place, very peaceful. Good for hikes fishing and picnics. The address is not the access point. Try using 2436 Rick Whinery Dr, Austin, TX 78728, United States in your map or finder app. The listed address given was from long before houses built up here. read more

Loved the walking trail, pond, and lots of places to sit. Also the bathrooms were in decent shape. Definitely recommend visiting. read more

Mills Pond - Sunset overlooking Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

It's getting darker earlier and I had been looking for a good place to go run at night with good lighting and this is a really good spot with decent lighting and a good trail to walk/run. read more

Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

Great fishing today! For my anglers out there, I rigged up a Texas rig on a 4/0 EWG hook using a black and blue 6in Senko. Really murky, muddy, green water. They were hitting it well! Definitely some good bass in that pond, just gotta find them! read more

I love this park. There are not any playgrounds here which may not be the most ideal for parents. (My 4 year old did nothing but whine while we were there) If you do not have children that you are trying to entertain and you just want to go for a walk, jog, run, or even fish, then this is the perfect place to go. I personally love that it isn't exactly the perfect spot for small children because that typically means that this park is quiet since it is lacking screaming kids. My favorite thing to do is stand out on the dock with a cool breeze coming off the pond, watching the sun set in the horizon. read more

See all

Watch out for the male geese! My friend and I walked around this lovely, serene pond one morning but the male geese are daunting! If you get within thirty feet, or even look at them, these evil creatures lower their heads, begin honking and waddle quickly towards you. I think they could easily snap off your toe. Otherwise, this is a pretty little hidden gem in the middle of a north Austin neighborhood off Wells Branch. There are several picnic tables, a grill, wonderful trees and plants, nice friendly ducks and people, and a "boat house" at the end of a short pier. Catch and release fishing is allowed and, believe it or not, the pond has Blue and Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass and Black and White Crappie. But, it's catch and release so you've got to toss 'em back! Mills Pond is dog friendly but you must keep your pup on a leash. Probably to protect her from those insufferable geese. read more

See all

This is a beautiful spot to soak up some nature! They've got a covered dock, a big walking trail, and plenty trees! The pond has fish and tons of turtles. I like to sit out and feed the turtles and just soak up the sun! It's a really quiet and refreshing spot. read more

Come here for the ducks and geese! I also see a lot of people sitting on the pier or shore fishing. Please don't feed the ducks human bread. To ready why, visit: http://www.liveducks.com/duckbread.html Mills Pond is in north Wells Branch. Coming from the East or the South, there is an entrance off Wells Port a block south of Rick Whinery or just drive onto Rick Whinery and park along the road. If you're coming from the West, you can park along Mallard Green. More ducks hang out on the east side of the pond so I prefer to park along Rick Whinery. Mills Pond is also connected to the Katherine Fleischer Park via the Wells Branch trail system so you athletic types can just park on Klattenhoff and jog up to Mills Pond. There are mosquitoes hanging around so if you attract mosquitoes, wear long pants or use some DEET. Thanks to Joe C. on Yelp for introducing this tranquil spot to me. There something peaceful about looking out over an expanse of water and hearing "quack, quack, quack" in the background. read more

See all

Mills Pond is what I would consider a little hidden gem that North Austin has to offer. I use to live at an apartment complex within walking distance and would take a stroll to Mills Pond for a breath of fresh air and relaxation. The pond itself is set in the middle of a friendly neighborhood community and has accessible trails for walking/running/biking that lead to Wells Branch. The park is also dog friendly, but signs are posted saying they must be on leashes at all times. However, I have seen some people w/dogs not on leashes and it never seems to be a problem. There are always a variation of ducks, swans, cranes and squirrels roaming around the pond. Not sure what type of fish are in the pond, but apparently it is catch & release for your fishing people. There is plenty of grass area to be able to come, throw down a blanket and have a picnic, or just to read a book. If I remember correctly, I did see there was a picnic table, and grill on the opposite side for the grill masters out there. The single pier that goes onto the pond is quite small, simple, but a perfect spot to take pictures at. I posted some pictures from my most recent visit, so check em out. All in all, Mills Pond is no Austin landmark in comparison to Mt. Bonnell, or Zilker Park, but it definitely has its own character and beauties awaiting to be seen. read more

See all

This is a nice relaxing place to visit. Stopped by one morning in the spring and it was cool and crisp. No one really here other than a few joggers. There are lots of ducks and geese. Don't feed them and junk food, proper foods are listed here: http://www.wellsbranchmud.com/general_information/feeding-ducks-on-mills-pond.html Nice trails for a brief stroll around the water, 30 minutes if you lolly gag, 20 if you are moving fast. read more

Great little getaway for a quiet lunch break. Trees, benches, picnic tables along trails by a small pond filled with turtles and think I even saw fish jumping. So happy to find this place. Now I can escape work and find peace during my brief lunch break. Much more to be explored it seems. read more

Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

Beautiful place for a leisurely walk with kids or dogs. I went with my 2.5 year old and we enjoyed the different sights and colors -- lots of different plants, fall leaves on the trees, small bridges and piers, dirt paths, benches, picnic tables, birds and squirrels and other wildlife, and of course the pond itself. Parts of the path were shaded in wooded areas. We saw a few joggers and people walking their dogs. Overall it was a quiet and peaceful way to spend an hour. read more

Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

Great little spot in the middle of PF...And our granddaughter just loves it...Green, quiet and lots of ducks.. read more

Mills Pond - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

A friend of mine asked me the other day why I consider Mills Pond (and adjoining Kathy Fleischer Park) my favorite. So many people consider Town Lake's Hike and Bike Trail to be the best in the area. Pretty much everyone but me. GETTING THERE: No horrific MoPac or downtown traffic to navigate. Never have to worry about where to park. There's easy street parking along the west on Mallard Green, and a small lot in the SE corner that you access, I think, via magic, cause I've never seemed to be able to find how to get there. I just usually start at the main lot at Kathy Fleischer. THE WILDLIFE: Always waterfowl to play with of all types, always little kids playing with them. Ducks, including the funny ones with the white tufts on the top of their heads, the occasional swan or two, cranes, and geese, the pit bulls of the pond. We've also seen gobs of squirrels, some bunnies and one possum. As I've warned before, the more you visit, the more chance that you'll encounter occasionally violent duck on duck action. I'll let you Google that for more info. THE PEOPLE: At some parks, I feel like I'm watching tryouts for "The Real World", as i dodge the parade of glistening hardbodies passing me in both directions. At Mills Pond, there's such a diverse mix of folks. Even though the paths are mosly cinders/gravel, they are plenty flat enough for even a Fiat-sized stroller. There's some folks that are very fit trying to stay that way, those like me that are working to get fit, those just wanting to hang out with someone they love watching the sun set from the pier, kids (and some not so much kids) wanting to feed ducks, and those just wanting to tire out their dogs (and kids) and get them to poop (pick up bags available, for the dogs, not the kids). There's folks in blue jeans, short shorts, athletic gear, or full outfits of their ethnic heritage (that must be warm in the Summer heat), all doing their thing. And, oddly enough, always someone fishing. At the right time of day, when the breeze kicks up and rustles through the trees, and I turn a bend and have a little stretch of land all to myself, I can take all the troubles of the day and push them out of my head. I sometimes forget I'm in the middle of a neighborhood in North Austin. And that is why I prefer Mills Pond. read more

See all

In case others are considering this trail for nature hiking like I did, if you are looking for a challenging, out of the way nature trail, this isn't it. The trail is great for running, it is entirely flat, very wide and well paved throughout. I noticed a lot of pregnant women using it. You will cross many neighborhood streets and pass by several kid's playgrounds (all of which were full when I went) and picnic tables used for birthdays. The trail runs along the backyards of houses in some places and alongside the playgrounds and sports fields in others. You will also reach a major street. Overall this is very well maintained, but I would label this as a family friendly light cardio/running trail, not a hiking trail. read more

I lived for awhile right down the road and it is absolutely lovely. The other visitors are friendly either walking their dogs, jogging, fishing or having a picnic, the atmosphere is very calm and refreshing. The trails are nicely laid out and it is a good bout of exercise to complete the Mills Pond trail either the short way (over the bridge) or long way (behind the trees/into where houses are.) My dog loves it out here. He used to chase squirrels madly but now he runs along them as if they were pals. I LOVE ducks so it's always a pleasure to see a family/squad traversing the pond or hanging out on the grass. read more

See all

I love this pond, it's beautifully maintained, quiet and full of friendly people and animals. There's also a ton of Pokéstops, Magikarp, and a gym if you're into that sorta thing :) Either way, it's a lovely place to send the day or evening, exercise, fish, have a picnic, bond with your dog or train to be the very best trainer that no one ever was. read more

We love the Mills Pond trail around the lake. Scenic walk for the dog closer to where we live. The park itself is well kept up with several benches and picnic tables. There are two docks, one even has a cute gazebo. We have met very friendly fellow dog walkers on this trail and our pup loves looking at all the different birds and ducks. This trail is in no way a "hike", but if you are looking for a well-maintained paved trail with a nature view...than check this gem out. Bring a picnic basket on a nice day too! Bathrooms and easy parking included! read more

I'm a portrait and landscape photographer and I absolutely love doing photoshoots here! I've done several different types of shoots and I always seem to find new and exciting locations to use and explore. Beautiful place and its not ever really packed with people. Very peaceful place to hang out by the water. read more

This park is very nice for what it is. I frequent it because it is within walking distance from my apartment complex. I take my dog here for his morning and afternoon walks. The walk is always pleasant, and people are almost always very friendly. It is not overly crowded, and the ducks are fun to watch. Families are often here with their kids feeding the ducks; it's cute. The park has plenty of trash cans and bags for people to pick up their dog's poo. For the most part people are pretty good about this. I do wish there was some off-leash area for my pooch, but you can't have everything. I do also think that people who are scared of dogs should avoid the park, but maybe that's just me. Overall, if you're in the mood for a pleasant stroll in the park, this park won't disappoint. read more

Love this park. In the evenings, you can watch the sun setting among the tress. The lake is very peaceful and not very busy. It's refreshing to walk at the lake and nearby trail after a rain. read more

Looking for a place to knock out some cardio? This is one (probably of many) to try. The pond is an added touch to any already nice park. First time here, definitely won't be the last. read more

Mills Pond - This lake is such a scenic view for a park - Parks Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

Beautiful park in my neighborhood. Love how well kept it is. Unfortunately the only thing that scares me is how the path around the lake is not lighted in a very dark area at night. Recently while my husband and I were running in the late evening, we encountered something that was moving in the trees and saw some very huge eyes when we lighted the area where we heard movement from. Yes I understand that this is a park where many animals come to at night, but it would be super fantastic to light at least that area that's extremely dark covered by trees. Other than that, this park is a jewel and love running and hanging out here. read more

I felt like a celebrity swarmed by paparazzi when we arrived. The ducks were so comfortable with us. When I die, I would like to come back as a duck and live here. What a beautiful little gem tucked away. Great places to take photos of the family; bring a tripod and remote. Bring some bread for the friendly ducks and some good walking shoes. So pretty and made for a great family afternoon. read more

Nice walking trails with lots of birds. Nice pond with frequent amazing sunsets. A nice place to have a picnic lunch. read more

See all

This is one of my favorite spots in Austin, Texas. In the morning, there are walkers, joggers, ducks, and just quietness. A must see and a hidden gem in Austin. Great place to start the day. read more

See all

Loved the dog friendly atmosphere (note: keep them on leash always!) and the paved walking trail for jog/walk. Shady areas for picnic is a plus. I'll bring food next time. read more

See all

Didn't explore a whole lot, but it had an open field with sunshine.... That was all I was looking for read more

I love this place... I am an Austin Area Realtor and have a listing in this area. I love to write about parks and trails and this one is my favorite of all Master Planned communities. The lucky homeowners have a beautiful oasis to enjoy. I want to buy a house here! Click here to view my blog and to see more photos and read about this fantastic living environment http://brigittethompson.hubpages.com/hub/Wells-Branch-Hike-and-Bike-Trail-Mills-Pond-Austin-TX read more

See all

I love love love this cute little park/pond! It's a perfect place to visit if you're wanting to go up north a little bit. There are plenty of picnic tables for a cozy picnic and the walk around the lake isn't too long and not too short. I highly recommend visiting :) read more

I love this little Wells Branch oasis! It's so peaceful & always quiet. Very dog-friendly! I love that the walking trail covers so much area! read more

Mills Pond is a true local treasure. We recently moved into the area and after numerous walks (with and without the dog) past Mills Pond and the surrounding greenbelt, it amazes me how well everything is maintain. Both the folks that utilize the area as well as the local Well Branch District do a wonderful job. Just a great little neighborhood get away! read more

Please don't feed the birds bread or anything else processed. You might notice that some of the ducks and geese seem to have 'broken' wings, where the flight feathers stick out sideways even when the wings are folded against the body. This is because the birds aren't getting enough protein to maintain the strength of their feathers - because they're eating bread, specifically white flour. There are lots of migratory ducks here in the winter - nice for some low-key bird watching. Have seen many herons, a kingfisher, a cormorant, and more. Plenty of trails, enough distance to not get bored, a couple of fields to meander around in, and the trails lead to playgrounds and swimming pools. One field is a wildflower area in the spring. Bring deet - the area is heavy with mosquitos in summer. A leash law is in effect. I very rarely see dogs off-leash, and most people at least clean up their dogs' poop. The park is patrolled by local law enforcement via some golf carts. Keep your ears open also for bicycles - you can usually hear them coming on the crushed granite paths. They've recently done some native landscaping and are concentrating on stabilizing shorelines, which is good and also looks nice. They stock the pond at least once a year and have a youth fishing tournament. I frequently see adults fishing but I have never, ever in 5 years seen anyone pull anything bigger than a perch out of this pond. I never see bass strike the surface. Good for kids, but WATCH OUT for poison ivy. Tell your kids to stay out of the undergrowth at all times. There is plenty of grass to run around on, rocks to hop on, and a few trees that are somewhat climbable. Mind your toddlers around the water. (Edit: most of the non-native birds have been removed, including the Chinese geese.) It's not male geese you have to watch out for - it's both genders of the species whose common name is Chinese geese. They are very large, and noticeable by their distinctive honk. However, stand your ground and be ready to offer a few well-placed kicks to the head - I can't understand anyone older than 5 actually letting an animal smaller than they are bully them, especially one without teeth. read more

Really nice park but the fish were not biting. Nobody was catching anything. The guy next to us was fishing for perch with live minnows on about three rods. I caught a lot of blue gill but was hoping to hit the posted limit of five for bass and got the big zero. There were a few others out too with no luck. My husband tried everything in our tackle box. Would be a great place to take kids to fish though. Grab some worms first. The collection of world's smallest fish I caught seemed to love them. read more