user
Sculpture Falls
Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, United States
Appearance

Comments
jo
Review №1

Fun easy hike, just keep going until you see water its worth it

Ch
Review №2

Great rocky hike in Austin. Usually there is a creek running adjacent to the trail. It is quite dry as of 9/1/20.

To
Review №3

Beautiful and a cool place to visit away from the main city. Pics were taken pre-COVID.

Ta
Review №4

This is our absolute favorite swimming spot right now. Easy hike down, maybe 20 minutes. Be sure to have shoes for the water, rocks are very slippery. We bring a couple of lightweight camping chairs and sometimes our hammock. Its a beautiful spot and dog friendly! Enjoy!!

B.
Review №5

If you dont mind a decent hike to this awesome spot then I highly recommend it. I believe it took us about 35 - 45 minutes to hike there. Its worth it though. The water was clear and perfect for a swim.

St
Review №6

The water is so clean and beautiful. Very relaxing if your with some one special, but also with family can be very fun.

Jo
Review №7

Worth the extra hike. Only about 1.5 miles from where you park. Best time is either after it rains or when its not 105 degrees and super dry outside. The water is what makes it special.

Gl
Review №8

Love hiking here with the kids and then cooling off and swimming. Beautiful location with nice cool water. Sometimes it does get crowded, but mostly with cool people.

As
Review №9

A HIDDEN GEM! Once you figure out how to actually get in the park, it’s smooth sailing. About a .75 mile hike to a beautiful spring in the middle of the hill country. I didn’t get to take pictures cuz I was too busy in the water.

Ji
Review №10

If you like trailing, its your spot but this should not be your spot to expect waterfall. Water us muddy and I guess your swimming pool will be better if you want to chill

Ha
Review №11

Reservation needed Th through SundayI show the pictures on Google and thought it was gonna be fun, all we got but hiking, luckily we started from top, and did not climb back, there was no water, no where to swim, not recommended this time of the year

Pa
Review №12

July 4, 202030 mins walk to the right of entrance. Warm Flowing water! Water level shallow to cant touch the floor. Jump off of rocks into the water! Sun, Shade, and Summer Fun!

Do
Review №13

Every one. Very important. This place is amazing. But if you park in the normal parking lot you will be walking 30-40 minutes up and down across rocky ground. For some reason, our gps took us into a neighborhood to park. We parked there and walked about 30 minutes on mostly flat plain type area and ended up on the other side of the fall (you can walk across the area easily). Park around 3804 Sendero drive and follow google maps to the area of sculpture falls. You will not regret entering here. We parked at the normal area the next day to compare, and couldnt believe how much harder that was.

Pa
Review №14

Been raining all week and looks like the water level is up, great hike, definitely wear a comfortable pair of shoes, nice trails and beautiful scenery. If you appreciate this review please, like. Thanks

Jo
Review №15

Beautiful place. Cristal clear water. Be sure to clean up after yourself after visiting this place so it can stay that way.

Sw
Review №16

The longer bike is definitely worth the clearer water and less kids around. I would watch out for snakes though especially during late spring. Also be sure the pack mosquito repellent.

Ni
Review №17

Fresh water and a good hike cant ask for more

Al
Review №18

Sculpture Falls is definitely worth the visit! The falls are small, but the rock formations and creek bed are really unique and fun to explore. It really looks like the place was sculpted. There are also plenty of places to wade and swim in the water. It’s a perfect place to take kids or even dogs to enjoy the water and enjoy the really cool landscape in the middle of the city!

Bo
Review №19

Beautiful and a good distance for new hikers. Theres inclines and when its summer the river flows strong. You can see wildlife all around you if you take a moment to stop and listen. I like hiking it in the fall and winter for there arent nearly as many people and the trail can get pretty tight when crowded in a few areas. When the water is dried up you can walk where the river would flow and its a serene feeling. Also adds some mild intensity to the hike. If your a climber there 1 spot year round under the route 1 bridge you can climb that will keep your skills in shape and when the water is dried up there is a few other spots you can where the river usually is. Only down side to this spot is you can hear cars off the highway so you never get that completely lost in nature feeling. But still a great area!

Am
Review №20

Was in Austin for just two nights and wanted to check out a hike. This is a short and easy hike for all ages! Great place for families!

Re
Review №21

Beautiful Trails / Water Flow Depends on Rain / Bring lots of water / Peaceful Day Trip / Clean / Many Access Points to Trails

Sx
Review №22

The lake was AMAZING! But i wish there was a way to get there without all of the hiking...dont get me wrong its a great way to exercise knowing you’ll have an amazing prize at the end:) but it can be a little too much especially if you don’t usually hike

La
Review №23

Beautiful place! Nice hiking too!

Eg
Review №24

One of Austins gems! The trail is completely shaded with several areas to get to the creek, such as in this shot.

Da
Review №25

Great hike! The lower falls are dry, but the water further upstream and sculpture falls was beautiful.

Da
Review №26

Lovely spot. Busy on nice days. Too many dogs off leash.

Ro
Review №27

Nice hiking / trail running. Good views, but when I did it Dec 24 2019, no running water

Vi
Review №28

Came on a Friday afternoon. The weather was just hot enough to enjoy the water but not hot enough to ruin the hike. I thought there would be more traffic but I only ran into a few people.

Be
Review №29

It was short hole to a nice little water hole. Fun way to spend the day if youre near Austin.

CN
Review №30

The falls are truly beautiful, and perfect for nature lovers and artists. Its very relaxing to sit by the water. Its a bit of a hike, so be prepared to walk, but its not a difficult trek for experienced trail blazers.

Br
Review №31

Beautiful place too bag there was no water

Ha
Review №32

This is one of the great trails in Austin, it’s not hard and that’s make it a good option for a fun hiking if you want to hangout with friends.

N
Review №33

Not for children.This place is not for kids. Repeat. Not for children. Its where the hippies come to congregate.Loud music,beer drinking,and lots of smoking.If you are okay with that... by all means... hike your children down here.

Ja
Review №34

Love this place, crowded on weekends but bring some water shoes and you can find a nice cut

Ha
Review №35

The water levels change drastically with the rain so don’t be surprised if you go and the falls are running over! It’s a beautiful hike, but only a straight line there and back, but definitely a treasure in the city for free!!

Da
Review №36

Nice falls. Easy hike in/out. Worth the walk

An
Review №37

Great swimming hole. Bring goggles and you can see the snapping turtles and bass that call this place home. Go early to avoid the crowds and bring plenty of water.

Ra
Review №38

To many people at this time of the year. Although we can find a spot of our own if we venture ahead on the trail.

Pa
Review №39

Lots of water from the recent rains. Dont get too close to the falls or you might get swept away when its flowing fast. But overall very nice still some parts to sit and enjoy the waters.

Ze
Review №40

Way better than the shorter hike one, less people and bigger swimming area. Really pretty but can be a pain to get across to the other side.

ro
Review №41

Can be hacked at time but if ur willing to walk it a great place

An
Review №42

This place is okay, I was not too impressed. I didnt like the fact that dogs get to swim there and actually saw a dog doing its necessities there and the owner didnt clean it up TERRIBLE!! The hike was fine but wasnt impressed much oh and its pretty dried up.

De
Review №43

Trip was Sunday May 27, 2018. Very nice place but you have to take the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trailhead to get there and take a picture of the map when you see it on your right side. Parking is on the Frontage Rd of S MoPac Expy you can find the trail behind the rails. Also a few tips dont take any coolers as the trail is rocky then you will have to carry it, just take your backpack and a few drinks most recommendable take water. The hike would be 30-40mins depending how fast you walk. I wouldnt recommend children to go unless you carry them, because the trail is beautiful but also rocky at some point. I have a toddler who is one and half and my husband and I took turns carrying him all the way, but I didnt mind the workout. Watch out for snakes I saw one on my way back. Will definitely go again but not during a holiday and coolers. Be careful on the way back because there is another trail that is a dead end but you can walk through a very narrow path going upwards, very dangerous for adults as this guy that attempted to go first than us almost slipped and went down; especially children and special needs too.

Pe
Review №44

Very nice hike

Da
Review №45

Its a little bit of a hike, but well worth it. Amazing rock formations from the flow of water. Tjere was no water flowing when I went but still really cool.

Ta
Review №46

Gorgeous! Has a bit of water in it when Twin Falls is dry, late July/early August. At least 30 minute walk from Barton Creek Greenbelt trailhead to Sculpture Falls, solid shoes over flip flops, fairly rocky & rough but still easy walk. Bring literally a couple of gallons of liquids, water, juicy fruits in a backpack, very long, hot & sweaty hike during summer.

Ol
Review №47

Always a great experience coming here

Ke
Review №48

Great spot. Please pick up after yourself.

de
Review №49

Raging water at falls today. powerful sight.

Ge
Review №50

This could be a really nice place if it is was kept clean. There are way too many beer cans, plastic bottles and cigarette butts left by the tubing party crowd.

Lu
Review №51

So beautiful. Had a lovely swim in there. You can spot Terrapins and weve seen a snake too (quite common I guess). Overall really nice. Clean water

Am
Review №52

Beautiful place with so many trails that take you through so many parts of nature. I feel at peace Everytime I come here.

Ra
Review №53

First time visiting a water pool in Austin and definitely worth it!

Ja
Review №54

1.8 mile hike from the parking lot

An
Review №55

The hike down the hill of life is not bad, the hike back up after swimming is the challenge. Bring water, and a backpack if you want to bring anything else. Totes and other bags can make the hike more difficult.Water had warm and cool spots, warmer the further up stream you were. With it low like it is now, you could easily stand in most parts.

Ko
Review №56

Fantastic experience outside of reminding me that I need to brush up on my swimming and to exfoliate because the fish feed off your dead skin cells. Actually very cool but the first one to get to my leg was a little big and caught me by surprise! Id absolutely go again. Bonus: there are several owners with their dogs out there splashing around and thats kind of fun/cool too.

Ro
Review №57

Sadly no water today

Da
Review №58

The water is perfect, and the current is on point for the endless swimmer

An
Review №59

Easy 1.5ish mile hike starting from Camp Craft Rd, but wear comfy shoes (I love my Tevas!) because the first part of the hike consists of large loose rocks, then it levels out and is very easy. I usually do it wearing my swim suit, carrying a backpack cooler, towels and picnic blanket. I went on 7/7/18 and the water was pretty low so no waterfalls then, although with the recent rain maybe thats changed..?

Jo
Review №60

Best payoff Ive seen come from a 1.5 mile hike. Do it

Kr
Review №61

Really cool place to hike to!

Ha
Review №62

Got there in dry season, no water fall but still cool views.

An
Review №63

Beautiful! Water was full and rushing. People need to pick up after themselves to keep it looking beautiful!

Pe
Review №64

Drove from Houston to check out this park. Sooo well worth the drive. Beautiful place to meditate and appreciate Gods work.

Gi
Review №65

Sculpture FallsBarton Creek Wilderness ParkCool off like a local in the natural splendor of the Barton Creek GreenbeltThe 30-minute hike down to Sculpture Falls is probably why it remains one of the less-crowded swimming spots in the Greenbelt -- which is good, because its absolutely beautiful and rewards those willing to make the trek. Sculpture Falls offers plenty of limestone real estate for laying out a towel and lounging, as well as a small cliff to jump off of and some nice jacuzzi-sized rock formations you can relax in. People love to bring their dogs, so be prepared to meet some furry friends while you’re here. This spot really shines after a recent rain, but you’ll want to wait a day for the bacteria levels to return to normal. Aim for spring or early summer, because Barton Creek will inevitably dry up in the dead of summer when rainfall is scant.Know before you go: To find the entrance, plug the address 1706 Camp Craft Rd. into your GPS. Parking is in a residential area, so be courteous and try not to block anyone’s driveway. On the way down, the path splits -- you want the wide, less wooded trail to the right. If you continue going straight you’re going to have a bad time. There are no bathrooms, and it’s a long hike in and out. Don’t be the person that tries to hike down in sandals and has to turn back; sneakers for the hike and water shoes for the river rocks will serve you well. Bring enough snacks, beverages, and water to stay out for a few hours. Always pack out your trash, and leave it nice for others to enjoy!

Pa
Review №66

Beautiful. Relaxing. And dog friendly. Hike is tricky, hidden in a neighborhood use Yelp address it has the best description. It’s a good workout rocky and hot to get down and uphill to get back up. Worth it!

Ga
Review №67

Always worth the hike ,, Water is great for swimming. Was less busy than Barton springs

Ja
Review №68

This waterfall is a slightly longer hike, around 4 miles round trip, but is a little bit more secluded so there is significantly less people. Also very dog friendly, we brought our Pyrenees pup with us and she loved it. Lots of deep spots to swim, and a moderate sized waterfall itself. Worth the hike for sure!

আক
Review №69

Beautiful place with very shaded hiking trails. It’s beautiful no matter what season you go to visit there. The trails are pretty long but it’s worth the hiking. I always love to go after a rain because the creek and falls are full with water and it’s just an amazing experience. Lots of people go their to swim as well. It’s another hidden gems of Austin.

Os
Review №70

Awesome spot for swimming, hiking, biking, walking the dog etc, but it gets insanely crowded during weekends and sometimes even on week days.

Ma
Review №71

Austin is full of hidden gems. Aside from the park that is public you can hike to less crowded but stunning gems like here. I highly recommend going out and seeing these gems!

Kr
Review №72

If you have a few free hours and are barbecues out, definitely check this out. It’s a little over a mile from the parking area, and totally worth it.

Do
Review №73

Need water thats all! Also people left their trash and dog Doo behind. But a nice hike. Will be awesome after rain and cooler fall weather approaches.

E
Review №74

Great spot to hike to and even more great to swim in.

Pa
Review №75

Gorgeous geologic features when dry, even prettier water when full. A beautiful, serene piece of Austin.

Ma
Review №76

Best for doggos!

Bi
Review №77

Excellent trail, albeit busy at times. No waterfalls running in the winter.

Ma
Review №78

Been there on a nice sunny weekday. There was limited crowd and it was warm enough to take a bath. Outstanding, especially considering we were pretty much downtown in a major city.

Ry
Review №79

Sculpture Falls is my go to spot in the summer as its a beautiful swimming hole that requires a little hike to get to. I pack a cooler with snacks and drinks and my dog come with me as we enjoy a dip in the water and sunbathe on the rocks.

ri
Review №80

Look for the Gods Eyes in the trees its part of a water ritual I helped film

Gi
Review №81

Relaxing hike!!! So nice, but dry in the winter.

Vi
Review №82

One of my favorite places to be outdoors, in any type of weather.

Je
Review №83

Very pretty place to hike and swim. The trail is pretty easy but can get rocky and difficult if youre out of shape. Not too bad, though. I definitely reccomend this trail/swimming area to everyone!

Li
Review №84

It is completely dry at this moment. But a lovely place to be alone.

Je
Review №85

It was my first time here! Came with a group of friends for the weekend, and we enjoyed it! The water was not so cold, it was just right. Not too packed either.. The walk to the actual sculpture falls was pretty cool! Took a while, but we managed it, and we LOVED it. We will come back!

Br
Review №86

Awesome spot when the water is going a bit. Only gave it 4 stars so Californians wont ruin it.

Ti
Review №87

The beginning of the walk was a little more difficult, and didnt have much shade. However, children are able to make the walk, and once you get to the shaded trails, it is much easier. The water was clear and flowing and it was wonderful to cool off. One of my favorite places for outside activity!

Ja
Review №88

Relaxing urban hike and when the water is flowing like in 2019, a great place to cool off.

Ru
Review №89

Even tho its a free public space, at times you can get a good sense of privacy, its a very open place

Ty
Review №90

We had so much fun here.

Ch
Review №91

It is funny that the Greenbelt has a yelp. Kids have been coming down here and hanging out since my dad was just a teenager in the 70s and probably long before that. Its one of the great spots that gives Austin a little character. This is a great spot for cycling, hiking, and trail running. Everyone here has been co existing and enjoying the citys natural beauty for a long time.

Ko
Review №92

I happened to go for a quick hike here alone the other day. I had my hopes up that the falls would be running but, alas, I should have known better in Texas. I hope to get down here while the falls are in full effect some day. Until then, Ill just have to enjoy all the beautiful nature and the escape form the city hustle and bustle.A warning to the newbies: the hike up is not for the feint at heart. It will make you work, especially if you do it in the summer. Bring lots of water!

Jo
Review №93

The swimming area is rewarding when you get there.

El
Review №94

Awesome. Great trail. Just watch out for dogs off leash if you have a dog who isnt so happy as the others lol.

Du
Review №95

Ive been coming here for years. I absolutely love this place.

Ma
Review №96

Long hike but worth it!

Da
Review №97

Great just really great

Ka
Review №98

Very pretty, lots of tree coverage and rocks to climb. Nice natural pools to swim in with rushing water over rocks. Just a bit oversaturated with people.

Ro
Review №99

Beautiful trail especially when the water is running. Come early because it can get really hot. Dog lovers and bike riders are also on these trails so be prepared to encounter that.

Is
Review №100

Very nice hike leading to a beautiful waterfall area where you can hangout/swim/dive/etc. Really has it all.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, United States
  • Site:http://www.austintexas.gov/page/trail-directory
  • Phone:+1 512-974-6700
Categories
  • Waterfall
  • Tourist attraction
Similar organizations