Day Trips from Austin
← All Austin day tripsDay Trips from Austin: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Austin, TX. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Austin
Devil’s Waterhole - Trailhead
Buchanan Dam, TX 78611
Just 1 hr 21 min from Austin, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Canyon Lake Gorge
Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Just 1 hr 2 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 277 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Johnson City, TX 78636
Just 1 hr 1 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 5,110 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Upper McKinney Falls
TX 78744, USA
Just 22 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 302 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Colorado Bend State Park
Bend, TX 76824
Just 1 hr 43 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 2,467 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gorman Falls
Lometa, TX 76853
Just 1 hr 51 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 134 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cypress Falls Swimming Hole
Wimberley, TX 78676
Just 54 min from Austin, rated 4.5 stars by 617 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Gorman Falls
Texas 76853, USA
Just 1 hr 51 min from Austin, rated 4.5 stars by 114 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Austin
What are the best waterfalls near Austin, TX?
The best waterfalls near Austin range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Austin?
Some waterfalls near Austin have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Austin?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Austin are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Austin?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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