Chasing Waterfalls – Atx Pt 1
One of my many hobbies is chasing waterfalls. I will go to great lengths to find one. As a transportation planner working in the civil engineering industry, I frequently have to identify valuable environmental resources such as creeks, ponds, and wetlands for roadway design projects. This researching skill has come in handy in my personal life and has allowed me to find some amazing spots for recreational water activities.
I have created a list of my favorite waterfalls in the Austin area and in this post I’ll give you some info on the first 3. The ones I describe in this post are more hole-in-the-wall type waterfalls and not as well known as others such as Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls. Personally, I enjoy the more secluded, underrated waterfalls because I absolutely love having the place to myself. I know that a lot of you are eager to know where some of these waterfalls are located, but first I have provided a brief review of each waterfall to help you decide which one you’d like to visit. At the end of the post, you’ll see a map including the exact location of each waterfall that you can use to plan your visit!
- #1 – Crocket Garden Falls
- #2 – St Edward’s Park Falls E
- #3 – St Edward’s Park Falls W
#1 – Crocket Garden Falls
This is my absolute favorite waterfall in the Austin area! It is a must see! However, it’s definitely a tough hike. The park is called Cedar Breaks Park in Georgetown and it’s free entry if you’re going hiking. The trail you’ll want to take is the San Gabriel River Trail – Goodwater Loop. After parking, it took me about an hour to get to the falls. It’s a very rocky trail so be prepared with a lot of water, snacks, good shoes, and time! I love this one because it’s breathtaking AND you can take your furry best friend with you. If you want to avoid the crowds and get some cool pics, go early in the morning!
#2 – St Edward’s Park Falls E
This one is very close to home and easy to get to. St Edwards Park is not as popular as other parks in the Austin area, but it is a nice place to go if you want to go somewhere close and get away from the crowds. I like to go here during the week when it’s empty or during the early morning on weekends. Although not as crowded as Sculpture Falls on Barton Creek, it does still get a bit crowded during peak hours on weekends. After parking, this spot is about 5 minutes into the trail. My dog Luna loves swimming here!
#3 – St Edward’s Park Falls W
This one is just about 10 minutes further down on the trail in St Edward’s park as well. You have to be on the lookout for it, otherwise you’ll miss it. I happened upon it once while hiking on the trail and I fell in love. I’ve been going to it for about five years now and it never disappoints. There isn’t always a waterfall, but when there is, it is soooo much fun! I’d suggest going after it rains so you can see how cool the waterfall is. This spot is doggy heaven and Luna absolutely loves swimming here. There is also a rope swing if you’re into that kind of stuff!
Use this map below to zoom in and find the exact location of each waterfall.
CONCLUSION
I hope this has encouraged you go on some local adventures. We don’t need to get on a plane and travel somewhere far to explore and find beautiful places. There’s beauty everywhere, you just have to look for it! I hope you all have as much fun as I have exploring these waterfalls. Stay tuned for the next set of waterfalls in a future post!
xoxo – Marce