Hey, my friend! You must be planning for your summer vacations as they are coming near. Well, what about a location that has a hiking trail and a cascading waterfall? Sounds interesting. I have written this blog post about hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls.
The beautiful city of Texas is mostly known for its vast landscape and ecosystem that attracts many tourists. Although this city mostly has rugged mountains and deserted lands, beyond this are stunning waterfalls hidden in canyons.
These mesmerizing waterfalls allow you to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Waterfalls combined with hiking trails add adventure to your getaway. It must stir adrenaline in my hiking-loving friends! It is not merely an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life but a chance to connect with nature. And what about taking a dip in the cool waters of waterfalls in the scorching heat? It would be amazing.
Now, no need to waste more time. Let’s follow the hiking trails that lead to the mesmerizing and cascading waterfalls.
A Glimpse Into The Hiking Trails In Texas With Waterfalls:
Falling from the rugged mountains between the giant rocks, there are numerous waterfalls in Texas. But we will have a look at the hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls.
Hamilton Pool Preserve – Waterfall With A Vast Pool:
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a sight that you will not be able to forget. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country on the west of Austin, the water falls from a height of 50 feet from the heavy rocks. It falls into a vast pool of jade-green water. The surroundings are like a collapsed dome (not sure if it is). The rugged rocks cover the pool area separating you from the exterior world.
You are not allowed to swim directly under the waterfall but the vast pool is there for you to take a dip and enjoy your swim. The flow of the waterfall is dependent on the rain.
Now, we are also here for hiking, right? The preserve gives you a chance to hike a quarter mile to the top of the waterfall and enjoy a view from there. The path up to the waterfall is a rugged terrain. But my friend, keep in mind that the place is super popular among locals. Make sure to book before your visit.
Another amazing feature of this waterfall is the proximity to the Balconies Canyonlands Preserve. This place is known for its tropical and wildlife. So you can also visit it after enjoying your pool time.
Pedernales Falls State Park – Nature’s Wonder:
Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls. This one is also located in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Hang on! This state park has not one but two waterfalls, Twin Falls having Upper and Lower Falls, and the Devil’s Backbone Falls.
With two different levels of hiking from moderate Twin Falls to challenging Devil’s Backbone Falls, this state park is best for hiking enthusiasts. A total of 20 miles of hiking trail is offered by the state park. You can hike the way up or go for mountain biking and horse riding.
The water falls through limestone surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. This all creates a mesmerizing scene that is unforgettable.
Not only this but explore the wildlife in the dense forest of the state park and take a dip in the Pedernales River in hot summer. Camp on the camping grounds under the stars of Texas.
The state park has an entrance fee. There are stores for your hiking needs, restrooms, and a picnic area.
McKinney Falls State Park – Waterfalls Delight With A Lot of Adventure:
Another one on the list of hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls is McKinney Falls State Park located just outside Austin, Texas.
The show stoppers are the Upper Falls and Lower Falls formed due to Onion Creek and Williamson Creek. Just hike up a distance of 1.5 miles and you will reach Lower Falls. It is best for taking a dip and planning a picnic. Now if you are more daring then continue your 4.8-mile-long trail that leads you to the breathtaking view of the Upper Falls.
This place holds a history of Texas. Explore the Smith Rock Shelter and the remnants of Thomas F. McKinney’s homestead.
You can camp on the camping grounds and have a picnic in the dedicated areas. Learn about history, take a dip into the cold water, and hike your way around the 10-mile-long hiking terrains. The entrance to McKinney Falls State Park is charged. I will recommend you to book before visiting the place during peak season.
Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park – A Hidden Gem:
Located in the Texas Hill Country, Gorman Falls is one of the hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls. This is a hidden gem which is yet to be discovered.
A unique feature of the Gorman Falls is that it is lively. What does it mean? The air around the waterfall has an abundance of carbon dioxide. It reacts with the surrounding minerals which results in the precipitation of the minerals. This procedure has been taking place for a million years which results in the massive waterfall. Awesome, right?
To reach your final destination, you have to cross rugged terrains and uneven paths. But this is all worth it in the end. The hike is up to 1.5 miles long but the scene at the end is worth watching. The mesmerizing waterfall falls from a height of 70 feet and is surrounded by towering trees and moss-covered rocks with a backdrop of Texas Hill Country.
Before visiting the Gorman Falls, make sure to pack enough water for a difficult hike. Download a map beforehand because the phone services can be limited.
Cattail Falls – The Most Daring:
This fall falls under the gray area as it is not authorized by any officials but by the Bureau of Land Management. Let’s see what this place has to offer.
To reach the mesmerizing view of the waterfall, you have to hike your way up to 5.7 miles. The path is challenging as it is not maintained so it adds to the thrill of hiking. You will have to stay steady on uneven surfaces, jump over losses rocks, and dodge obstacles.
But but but! The waterfall is a seasonal one. It falls only due to heavy rain. Usually, the waterfall is operational from October to April. Swimming is not allowed but the scenes are mesmerizing and worth watching.
Make sure to pack enough water for the daring hike. Download a map before visiting the fall.
FAQs:
There are many but consider the following first.
1. Hamilton Pool Preserve
2. Pedernales Falls State Park
3. McKinney State Park: Upper and Lower Falls
4. Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park
5. Cattail Falls
Among all of them, Lower Falls at McKinney Falls State Park is the easiest. It is merely 1.5 miles of easy hike that leads you to a scenic waterfall and a vast swimming pool.
You have two options. One is the Upper Falls in McKinney Falls State Park with a hike of 4.8 miles. Another one is the Devil’s Backbone Falls located in Pedernales Falls State Park. Both are challenging but the scenes are worth it in the end.
Not all of them allow you to swim. However, if you are looking for a waterfall with a swimming area then go for Hamilton Pool Preserve, McKinney Falls, and Pedernales Falls.
Conclusion:
So, friends, that is it about the hiking trails in Texas with waterfalls. I hope that you like it.
No doubt that there are above 100 waterfalls in Texas. All of them are unique in their beauty. Only a few of them offer you daring hiking trails including Upper Falls in McKinney Falls State Park and the Devil’s Backbone Falls at Colorado Bend State Park.
And if you are not looking for a daring hike then there are numerous options available. These include Lower Falls at McKinney Falls State Park and Hamilton Pool Preserve.
So now it’s up to you to choose one that suits you best. Put on your hiking shoes and pack your bag with hiking and swimming essentials. Embark on the journey into the wonders of nature!
For More: Best Places To Hike In The USA – The Perfect Pastime For Your Weekend
Long Distance Hiking Trails USA – A Heaven For Trekkers
My name is Bilal and I am currently committed to obtaining a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Beyond my academic pursuits, writing is my deep passion, which I pursue wholeheartedly in my spare time. I channel this passion through blogging at xploringlobe.com, where I offer my unique insights and perspectives on a wide range of topics.