Texas
Nature|Waterfalls

Your Kids Will Love This Easy 1-Mile Waterfall Hike Right Here In Austin

McKinney Falls State Park in Austin offers family-friendly activities like easy waterfall hikes, bird-watching, and exploring historic sites.

Published Feb 25, 2019

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Take the family to one of Austin's most gorgeous places. McKinney Falls State Park is perfect for camping, strolling, and bird-watching. If you don't feel like taking on a strenuous hike, venture down the Rock Shelter Trail. This breezy path takes you to some amazing lookouts. Your kids will love this easy 1-mile waterfall hike right here in Austin.

There are several trails within McKinney Falls State Park, but if you're looking for something easy -- opt for The Rock Shelter Trail.

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Wil C. Fry/Flickr

Right away, you'll be greeted with stunning waterfalls.

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TranceMist/Flickr

You don't even have to break a sweat in order to see the state park's main attraction.

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After you've soak up its magnificent beauty, explore the shady Rock Shelter Trail.

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Sam Matthews/All Trails

Along the way, you'll see giant Cypress trees, spooky caves, and colorful birds.

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christy lasalle/All Trails

Keep your eye out for "Old Baldy." This 500-year-old tree has awed Austinites for generations.

The young ones will love walking under the fascinating limestone rock shelter.

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Historians believe that Native Americans used this natural overhang as shelter from 500 BCE to the 18th century. This gorgeous place is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The whole family will love an outing to McKinney Falls State Park.

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This lovely oasis sits at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway. It's open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. To learn more, visit McKinney Falls State Park's website here.

Looking for more nature fun? You're sure to love these eight under-appreciated state parks near Austin.

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Nature|Waterfalls

These 9 Breathtaking Waterfalls Are Hiding In Austin

Discover nine breathtaking waterfalls in Austin, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Updated Aug 8, 2022

Written by 

Elaine Heng

Ah...the wonders of nature are truly amazing. Did you know that there are some absolutely breathtaking waterfalls that are hiding right here in Austin? I guess you wouldn't naturally think of waterfalls when you think of Austin, but they're definitely here, and definitely worth making your journey to them. Put your hiking shoes on and pack a bag with appropriate gear to discover these nine "waterfalls near me" in Austin.

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1. Wild Basin Nature Preserve

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You'll find lovely little waterfalls like these throughout Wild Basin Nature Preserve. There are plenty of trails throughout the park to find them. It's one of the best places for waterfall hikes in Austin.

2. Barton Creek Greenbelt

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What a serene and calm setting for this waterfall at Barton Creek Greenbelt. If you're looking for hiking trails with waterfalls in Austin, this greenbelt is perfect.

3. River Place Nature Trail

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Waterfalls like this are fun to jump right into for a splash on River Place Nature Trail. Not only that, but it's such a lovely fairy tale hike in Austin you can take with all the scenery.

4. Mckinney Falls State Park

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Mckinney Falls State Park is probably the best place for you to catch tons of waterfalls. It happens to have some of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Austin!

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5. Zilker Botanical Gardens

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Zilker Botanical Gardens has a few spaces where you can see manmade waterfalls like these. It's quite a wonderful oasis in the middle of the city.

6. Twin Falls

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Twin Falls is part of the Barton Creek Greenbelt and is a popular place for Austinites to take a dip when it's hot out. This waterfall also has a swimming hole and belongs on everyone's summertime bucket list in Texas.

7. Bull Creek

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This part of the Barton Creek Greenbelt is known as Bull Creek...how peaceful this is right in the middle of Austin! You can learn more on the Austin Parks Foundation website.

8. Mueller Neighborhood Waterfall

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This man-made waterfall is quite majestic, located right in the charming Mueller neighborhood. You can even go catch and release fish here!

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9. Sculpture Falls

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This is a beautiful place on the Barton Creek Greenbelt called Sculpture Falls due to the artful formation of rocks. It's a wonderful spot to spend some time. You can learn more on the Austin Texas website.

Hopefully, we have helped with your search for "waterfalls near me" in Austin. How many of these waterfalls in Austin have you seen? Let us know in the comments!

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Austin Who Loves Waterfall Hikes

Discover the best waterfall hikes in Austin, Texas, perfect for nature lovers seeking scenic trails and outdoor adventures.

Updated Apr 28, 2022

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Austin is so much more than festivals and tall buildings! When you're craving a taste of nature, there are dozens of places to escape to. Throw on your hiking shoes and pack a water bottle, because these stunning trails will lead you somewhere unforgettable. These are the ultimate bucket list ideas for anyone who loves waterfall hikes in Texas; here are our picks for the best hikes in Austin for nature lovers:

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1. McKinney Falls State Park

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Mikel Manitius/AllTrails

It's hard to believe there's a state park like this just minutes away from the bustling city streets, but here we are. McKinney Falls State Park in Texas is home to gorgeous trails and holds a fascinating history. You won't forget an adventure here any time soon!

2. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

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Stroll under shady trees and look for rare wildlife! Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is sure to become your new favorite lovely little oasis in the Texan sun.

3. Hamilton Pool

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This breathtaking waterfall is one of Texas' best. In fact, it's become popular, reservations are now required to experience it. Plan ahead and make a splash! Visiting this destination is totally worth it.

Yes, you really CAN walk behind a waterfall in Texas!

4. Sculpture Falls

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The Barton Creek Greenbelt surrounds this city with beauty. There are dozens of hiking options in this 809-acre area, but you haven't truly experienced it until you've dipped your bare feet in Sculpture Falls.

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5. Pedernales Falls

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Ready for a day trip? Pedernales Falls State Park is the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Hike along the water and spend a night under the stars! After spending an evening here, you'll feel refreshed and renewed.

What's your favorite hiking trail in Texas? Which hikes in Austin would you say are the best hikes in Austin? Tell us your thoughts in the comments; we love hearing from you! Need some ideas for kid-friendly hikes in Texas? Check out this list of the best trails in Texas that are nice and easy.

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