Gorman Falls in Texas 2025

A wide, misty waterfall will make you feel like you are somwhere tropical

Best time: all year round | April–mid-September

Located in the heart of the Hill Country, Gorman Falls is one of the most impressive Texas waterfalls. While the scenery of Colorado Bend State Park, where the waterfall is situated, seems rather arid and rocky, the waterfall itself is surrounded by lush greenery and looks like it belongs in the tropics. The most amazing feature of Gorman Falls is that it grows larger over time. With a height of 65 ft (20 m) and a width of about 650 ft (198 m), Gorman Falls is a "living" waterfall. Its water contains a high concentration of carbon dioxide, and when it tumbles over limestone, mineral deposits grow over time. Travertine is quite fragile so the area around the waterfall is restricted. Swimming is also prohibited. The trailhead to Gorman Falls, which feeds into the Colorado River, is located at the entrance to Colorado Bend State Park (off FM 580 ), two hours northwest of Austin. The trail, which could be muddy or slippery in the winter, is 2.8 miles (4.5 km) round-trip.

When is the best time to visit Gorman Falls

As with most Texas waterfalls, the flow of Gorman Falls depends on the rainfall. The wet season at Hill Country usually runs from April to mid-September. The lush greenery in the summer also adds visual appeal to the waterfall. During dry winters, Gorman Falls could seem fainter and not as impressive. The scenery at Colorado Bend State Park may also look somewhat bleak.

Things to do at Gorman Falls

Colorado Bend State Park offers 35 miles (56 km) of hiking and biking trails. Colorado River is suitable for fishing and paddling. There are 400 caves in the park. Wild cave tours are popular as well as and back-to-nature camping. Spicewood Springs is the most popular hiking destination in the park after Gorman Falls. The trail goes along pools and waterfalls fed by Spicewood Springs and features spectacular views. Spicewood Springs is also an excellent swimming hole in the summer. The park offers a kayaking rental as well.

Where to stay at Gorman Falls

Colorado Bend State Park has camping sites along the river and in the canyon. The park has capacity limits, so reserving a day pass and an overnight stay in advance is recommended. Reservations can be made up to five months in advance.