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One of the best hiking trails in Texas is in the Colorado Bend State Park. It’s a 90-minute drive northwest of Round Rock. I hiked the Gorman Falls Trail, including scenic vistas and one of Texas’s most beautiful living waterfalls. Honestly, I was inspired by a few pictures I saw online. So inspired, I laced up my hiking boots and made the trip alone the following day. And I wasn’t disappointed. The pictures don’t do it justice. It’s a Texas hike I highly recommend.
One of the best hiking trails in Texas is in Colorado Bend State Park, about 90 minutes northwest of Round Rock. I hiked the Gorman Falls Trail, which offers scenic views and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. I first saw a few photos online and was so inspired that I laced up my hiking boots and made the trip alone the very next day. I wasn’t disappointed—the pictures didn’t do it justice. This is a Texas hike I highly recommend.
Hiking the Gorman Falls Trail at Colorado Bend State Park
I had planned to park at the Gorman Conference Center, which is just a short 0.2-mile walk to the waterfalls. Instead, I parked at the trailhead and ended up hiking about 3 miles. The Gorman Falls Trail is one of the park’s more challenging routes. I came with only a printed map, my phone, and a half-full 8-ounce bottle of water.
The trailhead is located near the park entrance, on the right as you enter. The hike is 3 miles round-trip. The park also offers a free, two-hour group tour that takes you on a shorter 1.5-mile hike to the falls, but you’ll need to call ahead for the schedule.
How Long Is the Hike?
When I arrived, I saw hikers outfitted in full gear—large backpacks, hiking poles, and sturdy boots. I started to doubt my preparation, especially when I realized I was in the wrong parking lot. But I was there, so I kept going. You don’t need all that gear; sensible sneakers, a hat, plenty of water, and two to three hours are enough.
Follow the Trail Markers
Once you leave the parking lot, there are no signs for the Gorman Falls Trail. Instead, you follow the rocky path marked by flat boulders. The trail is open year-round and can also be navigated by bike.
Difficulty Level
The first mile is long and flat, bordered by cacti, dry brush, and tall grasses. Every quarter mile or so, a tree offers shade from the hot sun. I kept hearing a strange, high-pitched squeak coming from the brush. I thought it might be a snake, but it turned out to be a large moth whose wings made the sound as it flew.
The second part of the trail is more rugged, with large boulders to climb over. The path begins a slow descent toward the falls, and you’ll notice the change in elevation more on the way back.
The effort pays off when you arrive at the waterfall. The colors are vivid, and the crystal-clear spring water is alive with movement. The lush greenery contrasts with the dry terrain around it. Gorman Falls is considered a “living” waterfall because the high levels of carbon dioxide in the water deposit limestone, causing the falls to grow over time.
The Roar of the Waterfalls
You will hear the roar of water pounding against the earth as you round a corner and see the man-made handrail. The stones are slippery from years of use, and having the handrail will give you the courage (and the ability) to tackle the steep, downward climb. I don’t recommend this trail if you are not in good health or struggle with balance because the rocks down the falls are incredibly slippery.
Grab the Rail
Grab a hold of the guard rail because it gets even slippery further down. The boulders are large, and the gap between them is enormous. I even considered sliding down on my bum, but I wish I could navigate down before it came to that. The trail is dog- and kid-friendly, and there is an alternate bike trail to the falls.
A Living Waterfall
Hiking the Gorman Falls Trail is a small price to pay– the waterfalls are stunning. The colors are vivid, and the filtered spring water is crystal clear and teaming with life. It’s otherworldly, an unlikely placement amidst the arid terrain surrounding it. It is considered a “living” waterfall.
Unlike most waterfalls, Gorman Falls grows over time due to the high concentration of carbon dioxide in the water, depositing limestone to the exterior of the falls, making it more prominent.
Changes in temperature and pressure dissolve minerals in the water, forming deposits on tiny underwater plants on the surface. Over time, the deposits build up and form a rock called Travertine (marble), which has made Gorman Falls 650 feet wide and 60 feet thick over millions of years.
However, the layers of Travertine are soft, so the area right around the waterfall is restricted to foot traffic to preserve the fragile ecosystem for generations to come.
Final Thoughts About the Hike
Don’t be like me— I suggest you do a little more than research. Bring plenty of water and go with a friend. I arrived around 11 a.m., but I suggest you start as early as you can before the sun is too high in the sky. I wouldn’t, but you can wear shorts, and I highly suggest a hat with a visor.
Take a picnic lunch, but stay on the paths; I also saw signs for rattlesnakes and mountain lions. And always remember… take photos and make memories, but don’t leave your footprints or trash behind.
Address:
Colorado Bend State Park
2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/colorado-bend
+13256283240
https://maps.app.goo.gl/oMeCxkFNeXpJqqch7
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My family and I hiked this trail on a whim. I wanted to see the falls so I loaded everyone in the car for a daytrip.
About halfway, I thought my family would leave me to rot in the Texas heat, but then we got to the falls and all was forgiven. We spent a long time sitting and enjoying the most beautiful waterfall with all of it’s luscious greenery.
Thanks for posting this summary of you adventure!
The hike was really pretty with wildflowers everywhere. It was quite rocky the entire way which made it a little difficult. The trail near the falls is strenuous so if you’re not up for a challenge, or if you have bad knees you may want to pass. The falls are really pretty and the river is right there as well. It’s worth the walk to see it. We also explored other trails along the river. Bring plenty of water. Be sure to hold tight to the cable to get down to the falls.
I love hiking. I’m from the east coast but love hiking in the west coast! Sooo relaxing.
Such a beautiful scenery there. I really love to try hiking but not now. I am just waiting for my kids to grow up. and if ever I will assure that I can’t be missed this Colorado Bend State Park.
We are fond of hiking, we were at Pikes Peak Colorado 2 years ago. We are planning to go back to this beautiful State. I definitely will add this place on my list.
I loved reading about the guardrail and it gave me goosebumps because it sounded too exciting to me. The other thing I enjoyed was looking at the waterfall photo. This looked cool.
Some great scenery there! I find state parks are often overlooked, but are just as beautiful as some national parks.
I am a true hiker. I would love to hike here with my family. I have added it to my list for this year. beautiful photos!!
Such a great place for hiking. Would love to visit it some time.
This looks so fun and gorgeous! I’d love to hike there. 🙂
That hike is so worth the waterfall at the end. It looks similar to New Mexico trails with all the rocks.
I really have to visit Texas. I knew it was beautiful but, this state park is definitely on my list to visit. Thanks for the recco!
Thank you. Texas has definitely surprised me in the diversity of its topography. It’s quite beautiful and fun to explore.
I would love to explore Colorado one day. I’ve heard so many amazing things about it. I will have to! Thanks.
What a nature adventure! I always associate Colorado to cold but its always a very nice place to venture in nature.
Thanks Colorado Bend National Park is named for the river and is actually in Texas so your safe from the bitter cold here.
This hike through Gorman Trail at Colorado Bend State Park is indeed something that would be amazing to do as a family. The Gorman Falls is indeed worth the hike for sure. Thanks for sharing this awesome outdoor activity and gorgeous scenery.
I really love getting out to explore and this looks amazing, I always pack lots of water and go early in the am!
I love hiking and I’m bring lots of water. It get a bit side tracked by my curiosity often. Call me an explorer by heart.
That’s cool. I get sode tracked from here to the kitchen… not very explorer like but its always an adventure around here.
You know what’s sad? I hate hiking. And as much as I don’t want to, I blame my parents for that! LOL! OH WELL. I am a gym rat, I love working out inside – so at least I get active SOMEWHERE!
We want to venture out to Colorado so bad! Hoping to next year! We would love to hike to the falls and will definitely take your tips with us!
Hey Sam, I love Colorado, lived there for 6 years. Colorado Bend State Park is in Texas though, thanks for stopping by.