Pedernales Falls is one of the larger waterfalls in Texas, a very large state without a lot of waterfalls. The falls are pretty wide, but not considerably tall. When I visited in January 2011, there wasn’t a huge amount of water flowing over the falls, but I’m under the impression the flow might be even lower currently (in summer/fall 2011). There has been a drought in Texas, and warnings on the Pedernales Falls facebook page have talked about wildfires nearby.

When you visit at a time when there is water, it’s very pleasant. It was warm, but not outrageously so. If you don’t live in the area, choose your visit carefully, though.  Of the three days I was in the area, two of those days were not open to everyone because of scheduled hunts. You can now electronically reserve a visit on the Texas parks website.

Directions:

1. Head west out of Austin on US-290.
2. After some distance, you’ll see a sign for Pedernales Falls State Park. Turn right onto Ranch Road 3232.
3. Head north for about 9 miles to the entrance. There’s a fee to enter the park.
4. Head to the parking area. A trail there heads directly to the falls.

Accessibility: 9/10 (easy)
Height: 50′
Length of Hike: 1 mile round-trip

Where in the World is Pedernales Falls?