Did you ever expect that Texas would have waterfalls near Austin? Follow this guide when planning your next trip to Austin, Texas. What to expect from entry fees, driving distance from downtown and details from the start of the trailhead until you reach the breathtaking best waterfalls nearby Austin.
Map of Best Waterfalls Near Austin
Save this map to plan your next hike to a waterfall near Austin, Texas
Best Waterfalls Near Austin
Waterfalls can be seen throughout Austin and nearby towns. Water levels from the summer drought can drastically affect the conditions of the waterfall. The best time to see these Texas waterfalls at their fullest potential is between November to June.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
If you love amazing cave-like formations, hiking, a waterfall and swimming hole then this place is calling your name. Located in Dripping Springs, 31 miles west of downtown Austin, this stunning preserve has been attracting travelers from all over for decades.
One of the biggest features in the preserve is the overhanging rock cliff. When the area is not experiencing a drought, it’s one of the highest waterfalls surrounding Austin at 50 feet tall. The area under the cliff is closed due to fallen rocks.
The swimming hole is another big attraction that brings people to the park. Certain times of the year, you can relax and swim while you gaze at the magnificent structure of the overhanging cliff. Before your visit to one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Austin, check for current swimming conditions.
The park does sometimes restrict swimming due to high bacteria levels. Visit in late winter or early spring when the drought season is not as severe. If you take the 1.9 miles Hamilton Pool Park Trail, it’ll lead you to the Pedernales River to swim.
Pets and camping unfortunately are not allowed inside Hamilton Pool Preserve. You must make a reservation online (pretty far in advance) and this $12 fee is per vehicle with no more than 8 people. Also, when you arrive to the park the entrance fee is $8 per person, CASH ONLY. Kids 12 years old and younger are free, seniors 62 years and older are $3.
McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park is a great destination for anyone who is hoping to see not one, but two of the best waterfalls near Austin. Only 11 miles south of downtown, visitors can swim and fish at Upper and Lower Falls in this 641-acre park. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash.
Upper Falls is a short and easy walk reachable by taking the Onion Creek and Homestead Loop. You can stop at the waterfall, or continue to explore more of the park. Cool off in the creek or above the waterfall to get amazing views, but watch your step.
To see Lower Falls you will take the Homestead Loop Trail. The creek crossing changes with water levels, so make sure you where appropriate shoes. Swim at the base of the waterfall or continue on the trail to see ruins from the park’s original owner. Click here to learn about more things do in the park.
At McKinney Falls State Park, you can use your Texas State Park Pass. Tickets are $6 per person and kids 12 and younger are free. For your future visit, I would recommend making reservations.
Link Falls on Bull Creek District Park
While hiking the Bull Creek District, if you’re needing a place to cool off you are in luck! Pack a bag with water shoes and a towel and go enjoy one of the prettiest waterfalls near Austin at Link Falls.
This is a great waterfall with a small swimming hole in late spring, early summer when the water levels are higher. In Lower Bull Creek, 12 miles from downtown, the shortest distance to the falls is when you park at Bull Creek Preserve. The trail that runs parallel to the creek is less than a mile from the parking lot.
There’s no entry fee to explore the Bull Creek District, and depending on water levels, you can see smaller waterfalls in the flowing creek nearby as you follow the trail. Many people attempt to walk across the top of the waterfall but be warned because it is very slippery. If the water is not flowing, I personally would not let the dogs swim in it due to the risk of bacteria.
St. Edwards Park
One of the smaller and well-hidden waterfalls in Austin is located only 12 miles from downtown. It’s a waterfall without a name and finding it can be tricky.
One of the best things about this park, is that you could spend hours of your day hiking and practically never leave the city. The trails at St. Edwards Park are located north of the Bull Creek District trails.
The Brown, Red and Blue Loop, also known as The Creek Trail, is an easy 1.1-mile trail. Through wooded areas, creek crossings and a swimming hole with a robe swing, you’ll find one of the most peaceful waterfalls in Austin. Many visitors warn it is not well marked and conditions can get muddy. For extra guidance, you can go here for more help finding this hidden gem.
St. Edwards Park is a great place to bring the dogs for a long walk with no entry fees. The water was flowing great, so I felt comfortable letting my dog run through the creek to cool off. The trail does call for creek crossing, so bring appropriate shoes.
Sculpture Falls
On the trails of Barton Creek Greenbelt, this waterfall is a local favorite. Sculpture Falls gets its name from the unique designs made by water flowing through the limestone.
The trailhead is only 6 miles from downtown Austin, and off of S MoPac Expy. At the beginning of this free trail, you can hear a good amount of traffic. Soon you’ll be surrounded by a wooded area with heavy shade for your hike to the falls.
On this 3.2 mile out and back trail, you’ll pass Twin Falls, that tends to dry up easily, and a large Teepee made of sticks and logs. While getting great views of the creek, I like to let my dog cool off and swim before we get to the falls.
When you arrive to Sculpture Falls, walk across the waterfall or cool off in the large swimming hole at its base. Set up your hammock or picnic on the shore and relax in this paradise next to one of the best waterfalls near Austin.
Pedernales Falls State Park
One of the most popular waterfalls in Austin is located at Pedernales Falls State Park. This state park is absolutely a sight to see! Located 35 miles west of Austin near Dripping Springs, this popular waterfall actually has three sections to view.
The Pedernales Falls Trail is a .6 mile out and back trail rated as easy. You’ll see the falls from the Overlook or you can walk down the stairs to marvel the falls close up. Turquoise, clear water awaits you when the water levels of the Pedernales River are lower.
Explore behind the falls and the pool at the base of the first waterfall to admire its beauty. Swimming in this area is restricted, but you can swim in the river at another location in the park. Use this map to find the parking lot for river access to swim. Dogs are also welcome to swim here, just watch the current.
The slightly hidden Twin Falls is also another waterfall at the state park to explore. Enter the park with your Texas Pass, or tickets are $6 per person. Kids who are 12 and younger are free. At all Texas state parks, I would recommend making reservations.
Krause Springs
Spicewood is home to a surprising an amazing oasis with several natural springs. Krause Springs is very different compared to the other Texas waterfalls near Austin. Make your way 35 miles west of downtown Austin and prepare to swim!
This family-owned park has 32 natural springs where the waterfall is formed. The area around the springs were concreted to form a manmade swimming pool where the water stays 68 degrees year-round! When the pool from above is full, it gives life to a waterfall and swimming hole below.
Hang by the pool or swim under the trickling waterfall that has a small cave you can explore! Cypress trees border the shore of the ideal swimming hole. Getting down the hill is steep, so I wouldn’t bring too many things with you.
The park does close in the fall and winter months. Visit their website to prepare for your next trip. You’ll have to leave the dogs at home for this one. The fee to enter is $10 per person, $6 for kids 4 to 11 years old. Younger children are free to enter.
More Waterfalls to See
Are you ready to explore more waterfalls near Austin, Texas? November to June is the best time to see waterfalls in central Texas.
Click here to get your free printable with a list of more waterfalls near Austin, Texas.
Packing List: Hiking to Waterfalls near Austin
Listed below is the bare minimum that I would bring when hiking in Texas, no matter the time of the year.
- Always bring extra water for you, and extra water for your dog. On extra hot days, add electrolytes to your water.
- Bring easy to store back up food. I like to bring dried fruit and high protein bars.
- Water shoes for swimming will make the experience so much better. Try to find some with good tread.
- Sunscreen! Texas sees more sunny days than most places. Always keep a travel size kit of SPF 50.
- Bring a hat. I always keep an “emergency” hat in my car for just in case.
- Fully charged phone. You never know what can happen on a trail, so make sure you’re prepared.
Here are some more tips for what to bring on a Texas day hike.
I love to bring my dog to these local waterfalls that are dog friendly. Especially in the summer, it’s important to research if the water is safe to swim in. Texas has very severe droughts that can effect the quality of the water. If the water is not flowing, or you see built of up algae nearby, it may be safe to skip swimming until the area gets more rain.
The best time of the year to see waterfalls in Texas, is between October and June. I like to wait until November or December when the area has had some rain, and before it gets too cold.
Always remember to never leave valuables in the car, and always pack your trash out.
6 Comments
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