We pedaled east through the tunnel under Pleasant Valley Rd just south of the Longhorn Dam and, as if through some fold in the space-time continuum, found ourselves alone in a wilderness save for a couple of curious deer. Although surrounded by large trees and open meadows, well-paved roads gave lie to our illusion of being first explorers. We were, in fact, enjoying the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park.

At almost 363 acres, Guerrero Park is slightly larger than Zilker Park. The master plan for the park includes a children’s adventure play area, performance pavilion, and community gardens. Despite bond approval for park development in 1999, work has yet to begin. In April, Austinites staved off an attempt to turn 30 acres of Guerrero Park into the site of a new water treatment plant.

On the eroding south bank overlooking a lazy Colorado River, we looked back toward Austin. All we could see of the skyline above the trees was the dome of the capitol building.