Love waterfalls but not a fan of long, arduous hikes? You're in luck; these seven waterfalls in Texas are easy to access and breathtaking as can be. If you've ever typed something like Are there any waterfalls near me? into a search engine (or if that's how you got here, to begin with), you've come to the right place. There are plenty of hiking trails with waterfalls in the Lone Star State - check out these amazing natural wonders in Texas for yourself:
1. Hamilton Pool Preserve - Dripping Springs
One of the most popular swimming holes in Texas, Hamilton Pool is a jaw-dropping grotto formed several millennia ago by erosion. Underneath a massive limestone outcropping, the jade green pool truly looks like something from another planet. Visit after a decent rain to see this small, yet mighty waterfall pouring from the rock ceiling above. The best part? A quick, easy stroll from the parking lot is all it takes to reach the preserve. The pool opens and closes frequently, so check before you go!
Check out this incredible 4K tour of Hamilton Pool Preserve:
2. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center - Round Mountain
Do you have 15 minutes to spare? Embark on a short-and-sweet, 15-minute stroll through Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center to enter this lush grotto. A 40-foot waterfall flows into the pool and is absolutely breathtaking to observe firsthand. Guests are allowed 30 minutes to relax and take in the beauty of this tranquil scene before heading back the way you came. Guided tours are required.
3. Lucy Park - Wichita Falls
Although its waterfalls are man-made, Lucy Park undoubtedly deserves a spot on the list. The ease of access is incomparable, with a mere mile standing between you and the triplicate of cascades.
4. Gorman Falls - Bend
Located within Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls Trail is just 1.3 miles each way. Shade is minimal for the first half, but the hike is otherwise moderate (just make sure to grab the ropes as you approach the falls, as the ground is slick). Upon reaching the 70-foot natural wonder, you'll never want to leave. It truly feels like you're in an exotic tropical jungle!
5. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park - Houston
Among the most heavily photographed spots in Texas, the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is truly a sight to behold. The horseshoe-shaped fountain stands at a whopping 64 feet tall and utilizes over 78,000 gallons of water every three hours. The waterwall operates daily, and there's no hiking involved.
6. Krause Springs - Spicewood
For more than 50 years, locals and tourists alike have been flocking to Krause Springs to wade in its emerald waters. There are 32 springs on the property, several of which feed into both a manmade and natural pool that flow into Lake Travis. This scene right here - a gently trickling waterfall cascading down lush greenery into the reservoir below- is what draws many to the popular Hill Country destination. You'll encounter some slippery rocks en route to the swimming hole, but the distance isn't terribly long.
7. Pedernales Falls State Park - Johnson City
Just 30 miles west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is home to several hiking trails plus its iconic limestone slabs. Flowing down these rocks is the Pedernales River, which creates a series of mini waterfalls as it descends. A scenic overlook allows visitors to admire the falls without any actual hiking.
How many of these easy-access waterfalls in Texas have you visited? Did we leave off your favorite spot? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about Pedernales Falls: Pedernales Falls is a blue-green aasis tucked away in the Texas Hill Country. And consider stepping up that hiking game of yours by checking out AllTrails+. It's awesomely helpful and ridiculously useful for hikers, we promise!
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