There is something irresistibly — even magically — compelling about a hike to a waterfall. The rhythmic roaring of falls, the slick mist and cool breezes on your face, and the triumphant feeling that follows a successful ramble turned up a beautiful natural wonder — it’s just the right mix of peace and adventure.
If you’re here looking for hiking trails near me with waterfalls, you’ll know just how exciting the prospects are. But there are such a plethora of options all over the country, where does one start?
In this article, we will highlight the best hiking trails near you with waterfalls in Texas (so get ready to take a road trip if necessary), as well as Ohio and DFW area — plus we’ll include some pro-tips for hiking, can’t-miss routes, and hidden gems to explore anytime.
🌟 Why Waterfall Hikes Are Worth the Effort
Let’s be honest — not all hikes are created equally. Waterfall hikes are standouts because they engage all your senses. It is mesmerizing to watch and listen to the water falling, reflecting off the sides of your drone between towering cliffs while feeling that sudden cool breeze.
Personal Story: The very first time I went to Brandywine Falls in Ohio, was in the middle of winter. The entire waterfall was iced over — an icy sculpture freezing in the sun. I was just standing there the whole time, stunned into silence. That’s the moment when I knew that I was destined to love waterfall trails for the rest of my life.
🧭 How to Find Waterfall Hiking Near Me + the Best Trails
Scouting your next waterfall hike need not be a chore. Follow this simple step-by-step guide:
Google Maps Search “Hiking Trails Near Me with Waterfalls” Subsequent use.
Begin with Google Maps and zoom in on your destination. Reviews and photos can also provide recent waterfall conditions.
Check Reliable Trail Apps
Download apps such as AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Use the “Waterfall” filter to search nearby trails, including difficulty ratings and GPS directions.
Ask Local Rangers or Park Offices Ask the local rangers or park offices if there are any known spots for penissi.
Local park rangers typically know when waterfalls are at their peak flow or when specific trails are closed. They are your best resource for real-time information.
🏞️ Hiking Trails Near Me with Waterfalls in Texas
Texas might not be known for mountains, but it’s filled with verdant valleys, rivers and waterfalls — especially around Austin, San Antonio and Dallas-Fort Worth.
🌿 Best Hiking Trails with Waterfalls Near Me in Austin
Hamilton Pool Preserve
A Texas classic! When the ceiling of an underground river caved in, it resulted in a 50-foot waterfall through this natural pool. It’s also one of the most photographed waterfalls in all of Texas.
Tip: Reserve in advance — daily visitors are capped at the preserve.
Best Places to Visit in Austin: Twin Falls & Sculpture Falls – Barton Creek Greenbelt
Take a quick and easy urban hike through Austin’s Barton Creek Greenbelt. After a short walk, you’ll arrive at Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls where locals go to cool off on hot days.
Pro Tip: Hit it up after the rain for increased water flow.
🌵 Hill Country Waterfall Hikes Near Me
Gorman Falls – In Colorado Bend State Park.
You hike in about 1.5 miles to reach this 70-foot waterfall, hugging388888.the lush moss and dripping limestone. It’s a hike that feels like you are walking into another world.
Trail Tip: The final descent is quite steep — use the safety cables and wear shoes with good traction.
Krause Springs – Spicewood, TX
A piece of private paradise with 32 natural springs and many mini waterfalls. Great for swimming, camping and picnicking under ancient cypress trees.
💦 Top 10 Waterfall in Texas
Hamilton Pool Preserve – Austin
Gorman Falls – Colorado Bend
Pedernales Falls – Johnson City
Chalk Ridge Falls – Belton
2) Twin Falls & Sculpture Falls, Austin
Krause Springs – Spicewood
Airfield Falls – Fort Worth
Marion Sansom Park Falls – Fort Worth
Tonkawa Falls – Crawford
Turner Falls – Davis, OK (It’s a short drive outside of Texas but I promise its worth it!)
🌲 Best hiking trails near me with waterfalls in Ohio
Ohio: NatureRhode Island is inspirational for the great outdoors. The massive Cuyahoga Valley National Park alone has quite a few jaw-dropping waterfall hikes that look like they could have been ripped straight out of a nature documentary.
🏞️ Brandywine Falls
Ohio’s tallest and most well-known waterfall at 60 feet. A nice board walk trail makes it ideal for kids or those just starting out.
Access: The upper platform is wheel chair accessible.
🌊 Blue Hen Falls
A 15-foot drop framed by sandstone cliffs. This scenic pathway on the Buckeye Trail provides serene forest vibes with some moderate elevation gain.
🍃 Bridal Veil Falls
This beautiful waterfall is in Bedford Reservation, and looks identical to its name. Rushing down rock steps, the slim streams resemble a delicate bridal veil.
Bonus Tip: Come in winter to see the falls frozen into a sparkling ice sculpture.
🕒 Quick 3-Hour Itinerary
Start at Blue Hen Falls
Visit Brandywine Falls by car (15 mi drive so take PLENTY of gas)
Conclude with a stop at Bridal Veil Falls (20 minutes)
✅ Three waterfalls in a single afternoon!
🌄 DFW Hiking Trails with Waterfalls
North Texas may not be famous for waterfalls, but you can still find some charming ones not too far from Dallas and Fort Worth, particularly after a good rain.
🌿Prairie Creek Waterfall – Richardson
A lovely little urban water fall in a family friendly park(room to run). Perfect for leisurely stroll or picnic.
🏕️ Marion Sansom Park – Fort Worth
A system of paths winds through a small cascading-waters area that looks over West Fork Trinity River. This hidden gem is a favorite of mountain bikers and hikers alike.
✈️ Airfield Falls Trailhead – Fort Worth
This paved trail features the city’s most towering natural waterfall, and it’s a great option for families. There are also aviation history education exhibits in the area.
🧳 Best Local Oklahoma Hiking Trails (Close to DFW)
Turner Falls Park – Davis, OK
Step just two hours outside Dallas and find a 77-foot waterfall, alongside caves, cliffs and swimming holes at Turner Falls. It is among the best hiking spots around North Texas.
Little Niagara Falls – Chickasaw National Recreation Area Little Niagara is located only minutes from downtown Sulphur, the sights and sounds of cool, rushing water appeal to most visitors at this time.
Just 30 minutes north of Turner Falls, this park has little waterfalls and swimming holes, along with 20+ miles of beautiful trails.
🏕️ What is the National Park With Beautiful Hiking Trails in Texas?
The answer must be Big Bend National Park. Not famous for its large waterfalls Big Bend boasts Cattail Falls, a gorgeous seasonal waterfall nestled in desert canyons.
This park features some of the most picturesque trails in Texas, view views that include Chisos Mountains and Santa Elena Canyon, but you can also see The Rio Grande River.
🌎 Best Hiking in Texas and Beyond
Well, whether you’re in the Hill Country, Ohio Valley or closer to home in the DFW Metroplex, here are some top hiking spots where waterfalls intersect nature and adventure:
Colorado Bend State Park (TX) – for epic views of missions and challenging terrain
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (OH) — for waterfall and forest trails.
Barton Creek Greenbelt (TX) – for urban waterfalls you can reach on foot
Turner Falls Park (OK) – swimming, and goes for cave exploring
🧭 Step-by-Step: All The Tips For Planning That Perfect Waterfall Hike
Check the Weather: Check out right after it has rained for maximum waterfall flow.
Pick Your Trail Wisely: Don’t bite off more than you can chew as it relates to the trail difficulty.
Pack Right: Carry your own waterbottle and water, wear waterproof boots or shoes, and have some snacks like Wild Zora.
Utilize Navigation Apps: Download offline trail maps on AllTrails or Gaia GPS.
Leave No Trace Principles: Please respect nature — take only photographs, leave only footprints.
🗺️ Top 10 Waterfall Trails in the U.S.
| Ohio | 60 ft | Easy | |
| Texas | 70 ft | Moderate | |
| Texas | 50 ft | Easy | |
| Oklahoma | 77 ft | Moderate | |
| Ohio | 15 ft | Easy | |
| Texas | 10 ft | Easy | |
| Texas | — | Easy | |
| Texas | 15 ft | Easy | |
| Texas | — | Easy | |
| Texas | 80 ft (seasonal) | Moderate |
🌅 Conclusion for Best Hiking Trails Near Me with Waterfalls I love waterfalls that are nearby.
When it comes to hiking trails near me with waterfalls, half of the beauty is in the journey itself. Whether you’re pursuing Gorman Falls’ thundering might, Prairie Creek Waterfall’s tranquil trickle or Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley’s dark horse treasures, every waterfall has a story to tell.
So lace up your hiking boots, get the forecast and hit the trail.
Because somewhere close to you, water is falling — and adventure is calling.
