What's better than chasing waterfalls in Texas? How about Texas waterfall trails that lead you right to them? The following nine trails in Texas kill two birds with one stone by letting you explore before showing you the breathtaking sight that is a towering wall of water cascading into a pool below.
These nine trails are some of the best waterfall hikes in Texas.
1. McKinney Falls State Park - Austin
Two falls known as the Upper and Lower can be found in this park. The former is located on the 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike & Bike Trail, while the latter is at the end of the short-and-sweet, .5-mile picnic trail. Both hikes are easy, family-friendly, and very rewarding.
2. Hamilton Pool - Dripping Springs
It's only about a 10 minute trek from the parking lot to the entrance at the iconic Hamilton Pool, so there's no reason not to pay it a visit before summer is over. Watching the 50-foot waterfall pour into the grotto from the limestone overhang above is one of the most breathtaking sights you'll ever come across. Take a look at the stunning natural beauty of Hamilton Pool:
3. Colorado Bend State Park - Bend
Colorado Bend State Park sits on over 5,000 acres of trails, springs, rivers, and caves, but most visitors come for one reason and one alone: Gorman Falls. This magnificent, 65-foot waterfall is almost reminiscent of a pinball machine, breaking off into dozens of trickling segments before converging into a pool beneath. For a second, you might think you're in a scene from Tarzan.
4. Westcave Preserve - Round Mountain
A weekend guided tour will lead you to a 40-foot waterfall that spills into an emerald pool below. Tours are held on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. With lush greenery and wildlife abounding, you definitely won't forget your visit. Get an in-depth look at the Westcave Preserve:
5. Krause Springs - Spicewood
Krause Springs has been open to the public for more than 50 years, boasting 115 acres with 32 springs total on the property. The one pictured above is the most popular and only a short walk from both the parking lot and campsites. This mystical grotto definitely looks like a faraway tropical paradise.
6. Cattail Falls - Big Bend National Park
A true hidden gem, Cattail Falls, is located on a 3.1-mile unmarked trail in Big Bend National Park. We recommend asking a park ranger for explicit directions before you embark on this journey because you certainly wouldn't want to find yourself alone in the middle of the desert.
7. Boot Spring Trail - Big Bend National Park
This beautiful trail is pretty strenuous, so be sure to pack lots of snacks and water. Be prepared to spend about six hours hiking the 11-mile loop. We promise the view when you finally reach the falls makes the hike well worth it.
8. Window Falls - Big Bend National Park
Slightly less difficult, the Window Trail is 5.2 miles long and moderately intense. Not only does it take you to the most photographed scene in Big Bend National Park known as "The Window," but it also leads to a gorgeous waterfall. This trail is one you absolutely cannot pass up.
9. Pedernales Falls State Park - Johnson City
The falls here at Pedernales Falls State Park are located in the main area of the park, visible as soon as you step through the entrance. You can see them up close if it hasn't rained a lot recently, as the rocks will be dry enough to climb on. This is easily one of the neatest state parks in Texas.
Have you ever seen any of these waterfalls? What are your favorite waterfall hikes in Texas? Let us know in the comments. If you can't get enough of Texas hiking trails, here are 13 more of the best hiking trails in Texas.
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