With fall rapidly approaching and the lakes, rivers and creeks still full, this month’s place to go is Hamilton Pool Preserve. Hamilton Pool is approximately 30 miles west of Austin. Take Highway 71 west of Austin through the town of Bee Cave and turn left onto FM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road). Travel 13 miles to the Preserve entrance, on your right. This is a photo I took of the actual pool at Hamilton Pool Preserve in November of 2008. There wasn’t much water running in the creek at that time. What you will see with conditions like we have now is a nearly 50 foot waterfall cascading into the pool rather than little drips like you see to the left. If you go to Hamilton Pool, I suggest that you go early. The parking lot is small and it is closed when full and there really isn’t anywhere else to park. There is an $8.00 entry fee so take a little cash with you. From the parking lot you will descend a somewhat challenging trail. When you reach the little valley floor, you can turn right and walk to the pool or turn left and follow the creek down to the Pedernales River. Both paths take you into really beautiful areas and you would never guess you were so close to Austin. If you hike both trails, expect to spend at least an hour. 
To the right is a shot I took on the trail that leads to the Pedernales River. This trail is abouta 1.2 mile round trip. The creek is lined with tall cypress trees, which drop their needles in the fall after they turn red. If you do go to Hamilton Pool, don’t forget to take good walking shoes and a bottle of water. A camera is also a good thing to take! Take a look at more Hamilton Pool photos. |