Hamilton Pool Waterfall

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Hamilton Pool Waterfall is named after the shallow pond the water flows into. The river runs over limestone cliffs dropping fifty feet into the shallow pool that sparkles green in the sunlight. Near Austin, hikers and swimmers can visit the relaxing pool to cool off in the sweltering summer heat. Hamilton Pool Waterfall is not the widest or highest falls in North America, but the beauty, vegetation, and swimming area make it a place to see. Hamilton Pool in Travis County Park is a popular attraction; there is an $11 fee for entry. Visitors can visit between 8:30 and 6 pm. Reservations for the pool area can also be made between certain hours but pets are not allowed. For more information, click here.

McKinney Falls State Park

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McKinney Falls is part of the state park of the same name. While the height is not awe-inspiring, the water pressure – particularly, after rain – is extremely strong. There are two rivers that come together at the falls, which is why people need to be careful of the strong, rushing water. Williamson and Onion Creeks meet, creating small falls that run over limestone rock. The park fee is $6. The height of the falls is unknown, however, there are lower and upper falls, with a hiking distance of 700 feet. For more information, click here.

Mexicano Falls

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Mexicano Falls is 80 feet high, which makes the falls the third-highest in Texas. The falls are inside Big Bend Ranch State Park. Visitors can go to Ojito Adentro – the base of a small mountain – to see the falls, or hike the mile-long trail to the canyon and see them up close. There is a small trickle that creates an oasis in the canyon. For more information, click here.

Westcave Preserve Falls

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Westcave Preserve Falls is part of the 30 acres Preserve. The falls are reachable with a guide or by studying guidebooks. Westcave Preserve Falls creates a forty-foot drop going over the travertine columns (limestone deposits). Westcave Waterfalls are part of the Grotto and Texas Hill Country and visitors will need to take a guided tour to visit the savanna, limestone grottos, and waterfalls, with a pool below. There is also access to a cave and canyon area. Tours are weather-dependent and available on weekends. Fees are $15 for adults, $7 for children, or an annual pass is $75. For more information, click here.

Gorman Falls

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Gorman Falls inside Colorado Bend State Park provides a great hike up a steep trail to see the beauty of Cyprus and fern trees, running down 65 feet of rock and plant-covered walls. The limestone around the falls is delicate, so don’t attempt to climb the ridge surrounding the water. The falls are secluded, taking visitors away from the world and into nature. Hiking to the top provides amazing views. Texas may have quite a few waterfalls, but this is one of a handful that flows year-round, even in the hot summer months when rainwater is scarce. Gorman Falls hike has a 200-foot elevation change. To enter the state park, you will either need a Texas State Parks pass or to pay $6. The hike is dog-friendly. For more information, click here.