Chasing Waterfalls – Atx Pt 2
Whoever said don’t go chasing waterfalls clearly didn’t know what they were talking about. Sorry TLC, but they are definitely worth the chase!
Since moving back to Austin I have become much more outdoorsy. It was actually one of the reasons why I moved back from Houston. I wanted to be near beautiful natural areas where I could hike and swim in the creeks on a hot summer day. And let me tell ya, Austin did not disappoint! What I love most about Atx is the rolling hills terrain and the network of greenbelts throughout the city. The creeks create the most amazing natural pools and waterfalls. They are definitely not the tallest I’ve ever seen, but they are waterfalls nonetheless and I am grateful for them. I started the Chasing Waterfalls series in this post where I described the first set of waterfalls. I highly recommend you check it out if you haven’t! In this post, I’m going to talk about the next set of waterfalls that I’ve recently discovered.
All of the waterfalls described in these posts are more hole-in-the-wall type waterfalls and not as well known as others in the Austin area. This is why these are a great choice for social distancing adventures. I will start by providing a brief review of each waterfall and at the end of the post you’ll see a map including the exact location of each. Included in this post are the following waterfalls:
- #1 – Lower Bull Creek Falls
- #2 – Blue Hole Park
- #3 – Link Falls
#1 – Lower Bull Creek Falls
The Bull Creek Greenbelt is a hidden gem in the Austin area. Although not as popular as the Barton Creek Greenbelt, it is just as beautiful. It is located in Northwest Austin along Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360). It runs for about 3 miles and has multiple winding trails along both sides of the creek that lead you to beautiful pools and waterfalls. There are various access points with parking available. I usually access this spot off of Old Spicewood Springs Road. This is the northern end of the greenbelt and I’ve found that it is usually less crowded, which I absolutely love! The waterfalls here are more like “rapids” but it is still a cool spot to hangout and swim. There’s plenty of shade and the sound of the water cascading down is super relaxing.
#2 – Blue Hole Park
Blue Hole Park is a scenic lagoon bordered by limestone bluffs along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River. It is located in the City of Georgetown, five blocks north of the downtown Square along N. Austin Avenue. The park features picnic areas, restrooms, and wading areas. There is no entry fee to access Blue Hole Park. Parking is available adjacent to the park and is a short walk from the water. The park is great for everyone! Downstream, there is a shallow area where kids can play safely. And further upstream, the dam creates a fun waterfall and pool area.
#3 – Link Falls
Last but not least is Link Falls. This is one of my new go-to spots for a quick refreshing dip. It’s close to the city located in the Bull Creek Greenbelt and easy to get to. Parking is just a short walk from the waterfalls. There is one main waterfall with a sort of “dripping spring” adjacent to it and a nice natural pool at the bottom. You can even sit near the edge of the waterfall and get a relaxing natural massage! The adjacent “dripping spring” is incredibly beautiful. It’s hard to describe, but it’s like a cave covered in ferns with water dripping from everywhere. You have to see it for yourself, it’s amazing! Check out the photos below for a preview!
I hope this has encouraged you to 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. But before you go, make sure you check local city websites for updates on park and trail closures! Also, please remember to social distance, stay safe, and wear your mask while on the trails!
xoxo – Marce