Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is one of the most visually stunning natural formations in Texas — a 50-foot waterfall that spills over a massive limestone overhang into a jade-green grotto pool, surrounded by a collapsed natural grotto dome. The waterfall drops from the lip of an ancient underground river cave that collapsed thousands of years ago, creating a dramatic half-dome amphitheater with stalactites and hanging ferns dripping from the overhang. The emerald pool, fringed by a small natural beach, sits in a steep box canyon that feels like a hidden cenote.

The trail from the parking area is a short but steep quarter-mile descent into the canyon, losing about 80 feet of elevation on an uneven path with stone steps. The trail ends at the pool and beach area, where visitors can wade and swim when conditions permit. Note that the section of trail that goes underneath the cliff overhang at the pool is currently closed due to ongoing rockfall concerns — visitors can access the beach but cannot walk below the waterfall.

Reservations are required every day of the week, and slots fill quickly during summer months — book well in advance through the Travis County Parks website. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and the best chance of swimming being open. Summer is sweltering but popular. The preserve encompasses 232 acres of protected natural habitat along Hamilton Creek. Located 23 miles west of Austin near Dripping Springs, Hamilton Pool is a bucket-list destination for Texas nature lovers.