Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To Experience Some Of Texas’ Most Impressive Caves And Waterfalls
The Lone Star State is full of mesmerizing natural wonders, both aboveground and beneath the surface. We’ve put together a road trip that features the best of both worlds, stopping at some of the most awe-inspiring caves and waterfalls Texas has to offer.
Click here for the Google Map that will help you navigate from place to place. Have fun!
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This 65-foot-tall natural wonder looks as if it belongs deep within a remote, tropical jungle -- but it's right here in Texas. All that stands between you and the lush, vibrant, otherworldly landscape is a 1.3-mile hike each way. What are you waiting for? More information here.
One of the best-preserved show caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern had been hiding underground for over 10,000 years before its discovery in 1963. Several different tours are available, each one showcasing unique aspects of the incredible subterranean landscape. Among the features you'll see are vast chambers, staggering rock formations, and even the bones of prehistoric creatures. More information here.
Next up is Longhorn Cavern State Park, a historic destination established by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The cave itself was carved out by a river long ago, and two separate guided tours showcase its splendor. You'll descend 130 feet underground! The park also has aboveground trails that showcase the gorgeous natural scenery and original CCC buildings. More information here.
The family-owned Krause Springs is among the most popular swimming spots in Texas, and for good reason. Sitting on 115 acres, the property features a whopping 32 natural springs, plus both a man-made and natural swimming pool. There's so much to see and do here, including a stunning waterfall that cascades down a grove of bright green vegetation into the pristine waters below. More information here.
You'll half-expect to see dinosaurs stomping around on the slabs of ancient limestone at Pedernales Falls State Park. The landscape truly looks like something from a different time, especially with the towering bluffs rising up on either side of the gorge. The Pedernales River flows over the rocks, creating a series of mini waterfalls sure to take your breath away. Please note: flash flooding can occur quickly and without warning in the Hill Country, so leave immediately if you notice the water starting to rise. More information here.
Perhaps the most iconic natural wonder in Texas, Hamilton Pool is a magical grotto formed by the collapse of an underground river eons ago. It's truly an extraterrestrial landscape, with an awe-inspiring waterfall spilling off of the mossy limestone overhang above. Whether you come to swim or just take in the views, this bucket-list destination is one you simply can't pass up. More information here.
The largest, and by far the most famous commercial cave system in the state, Natural Bridge Caverns attracts thousands of visitors each year. From a leisurely stroll through the underground passages to a full-blown spelunking adventure, there's an experience for everyone. You won't believe your eyes when you behold the sweeping panoramic vistas tucked away beneath one of Texas' busiest cities. Aboveground attractions include a ropes course, climbing wall, maze, gem mining, shopping, and restaurants. More information here.
Cascade Caverns is the oldest tourist attraction in Boerne, established in 1932. A three-hour tour leads visitors through five expansive rooms, including the famous Cathedral Room. A gift shop, nature trails, outdoor pavilion, and picnic tables are also available for your enjoyment. More information here.
Also in Boerne, Cave Without a Name is a living cavern considered the most beautiful in Texas by many. You'll traverse six rooms, all rich with spectacular mineral formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, and more. There's also underground music in the Throne Room, which will resume once larger gatherings are safe and approved. More information here.
Please note that Hamilton Pool is currently closed for swimming. Hours may be changed or reduced at the other locations, and special rules might apply. Click the link provided in each description for the most accurate information.
How many of these epic caves and waterfalls have you visited? Would you take this road trip? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and check out our previous article to learn more about Gorman Falls: The One Place In Texas That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth.
Address: Gorman Falls, Texas 76853, USA
Address: 226 Cascade Cavern, Boerne, TX 78015, USA
Address: 325 Kreutzberg Rd, Boerne, TX 78006, USA
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA
Address: Hamilton Pool, Texas 78620, USA
Address: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669, USA
Address: 4200 S IH 35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626, USA
Address: 6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, TX 78611, USA
Address: Pedernales Falls State Park, 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA
