Hamilton Pool is a grotto whose ceiling fell in thousands of years ago, leaving a jade-green pool under a fifty-foot overhang and a waterfall that runs when the creek is up. Entry is by reservation only and slots go weeks ahead — we hold them.
Afterwards we head to Pedernales Falls, where the river runs down limestone in stair-steps you can walk across, and stop somewhere in Dripping Springs on the way home.
Swimming at Hamilton Pool depends on bacteria counts published the morning of; when it's closed to swimming the hike and the grotto are still extraordinary, and we say so before you book.
Downtown pickup — Republic Square
Republic Square, Austin, TX 78701
Put “Swimming Holes Day Trip: Hamilton Pool & Pedernales Falls” in a day of your own, add the other stops, and we'll sort the driver.
It was a wonderful visit and everything went smoothly. Even though we arrived late, they let us in without fuss. Thank you — it was a really great experience.
Small-van days out to the swimming holes, the granite and the wine road.
Booking was instant and the QR voucher worked first time at the gate. We'd have spent an hour in the queue otherwise.
Great experience, clear instructions on where to meet. Only wish the audio guide had a German option for the last section.
Easy with two children — the timed slot meant no waiting around. The staff were patient and friendly.
