There's a special feeling that comes with the dawning of spring, a feeling of lightness, of new beginnings, of warmth and vibrancy. People replace their layers of polar fleece with shorts and T-shirts, just as the landscape sheds its monochromatic hue for stunningly colorful flowers from coast to coast. So, when balmy ousts nippy and the sweet smell of mowed grass fills the air, lace up your hiking shoes, grab a camera, and hit the trails for a trek through fields of wildflowers in every color of the rainbow.

10. Bluebonnets have become almost synonymous with Texas. And no wonder, they are native to Texas, they're the state flower, and they put on quite a show during the Texas spring. The Hill Country blooms offer the best of Texas wildflower viewing. On a good year, the deep-blue bluebonnets wave in the breeze by the side of the road and over meadows and hills, but it's not the only wildflower in attendance. Indian paintbrush, pink evening primrose, scarlet phlox, rain lilies, and blooming peach and redbud trees also color the landscape. To learn more about Texas wildflowers, visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin. Dedicated to protecting and preserving North America's wildflowers and other native plants, the center's gardens and meadows are awash with color during wildflower season.

Austin and the Hill Country are great places to explore with the family. Away.com's Austin Family Travel Guide gives you everything you need to plan your trip.