Summer is in full swing in the northern hemisphere, and that means kids are out of school, temperatures are on the upswing, and pools are open! If natural water features are your jam, read on to find some great spots in and around Austin, Texas.
Barton Springs and Hamilton Pool offer an incredible combination of geology, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a geologist, an avid hiker or trail runner, or simply someone looking for some natural swimming holes, this area showcases fascinating groundwater systems and karst landscapes.
Barton Springs' geology: Barton Springs sits within its eponymous segment of the Edwards Aquifer, a highly productive karst aquifer associated with the Balcones Fault Zone.
The aquifer is composed primarily of Lower Cretaceous limestones.
Over time, faulting, fracturing, and dissolution enlarged pathways within the limestone, creating one of the most important groundwater systems in Texas. This groundwater feeds the springs.
Water emerging from the spring complex maintains a relatively constant temperature throughout the year, making Barton Springs Pool one of Austin’s most popular destinations.
Go deeper: Learn more about the geology of Barton Springs here.
Hamilton Pool geology: Hamilton Pool formed when the roof of an underground cave collapsed, leaving behind the spectacular grotto visible today. The remaining limestone overhang represents part of the original cave ceiling, a classic example of karst collapse.
The limestones exposed around Hamilton Pool were also deposited during the Cretaceous Period.
Groundwater emerging from springs within the Trinity Aquifer System helps sustain Hamilton Creek and the pool.
Ongoing studies continue to improve our understanding of how water moves through this portion of the Hill Country and how local fault systems influence spring flow.
Go deeper: Learn more about Hamilton pool's geology and hydrogeology here.
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The Swimming Hole at Hamilton Pool Preserve; CDLR Photography/Shutterstock.com
Barton Springs and Hamilton Pool are only about 15 miles apart, so it is easy to visit both during a weekend or even a day trip!
For those interested in seeing the geology of Barton Springs firsthand, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers excellent exposures of Edwards Group limestones, fault-related features, and karst development. After a run/hike/bike, there is no better way to cool off than a swim at Barton Springs Pool.
Likewise, the short hike to Hamilton Pool offers outstanding opportunities to observe karst processes, limestone weathering, groundwater-surface water interaction, and cave-collapse geomorphology. For anyone interested in geology, Hamilton Pool is one of the best outdoor classrooms in Central Texas.
Here are some fun places to visit while you are on your swimming hole adventure.
Where to stay:
If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Austin, opt to lodge in Dripping Springs, a more rural town about an hour outside the city.
Camp Lucy: It sounds like a campground, but it is actually a luxury wellness resort and event venue. Their rooms, suites, and cottages provide relaxation and seclusion with any amenity you could need.
Slightly west of Austin, you can get a great aerial view of the region by literally sleeping in the trees.
Prefer to embrace all that the city of Austin has to offer?
The Carpenter Hotel has all the Austin vibes and is located just a five-minute drive away from Barton Springs. Or a very hot, and likely humid, 20-minute walk. You can choose 😉
Where to eat: TLDR, you're in Austin, the amazing food choices are endless. But a few recommendations...
For a memorable breakfast fusion: Elizabeth Street Cafe blends French and Vietnamese cuisine. Never tried Hoisin sauce or Vietnamese coffee? You need this stop.
For craft beer and a family-friendly dinner: If you have littles who would love to watch and play with goats, Jester King Brewery is a good place to dine. You can sample some of the region's craft beer and snack on pizza.
To try Texas barbecue: When in Texas... brisket is king. Created by the same family that launched the legendary Lockhart Smokehouse, Terry Black's gives an approachable taste of the state's famous brisket, and its jalapeno cheddar sausages are worth a try, too.
To lift your spirits: See the pun I just made there? Treaty Oak Distilling is the fourth distillery ever established in Texas and home to award-winning bourbon.
And you must drink coffee... The city has been named among the top in the nation for its coffee, so your cup of Joe is bound to be delicious. I'd sample a new coffee shop every morning if I were you!
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