Sculpture Falls

Sculpture Falls is a hidden gem that is part of the 7.9 mile long Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin. It's considered an urban oasis and is part of the Edwards Aquifer making the water temperatures in the summer about 70 degrees, and is a perfect way to cool off in the Texas heat!

To find the trailhead turn onto Scottish Woods Trail off of 360 (the other side of Scottish Woods Trail is called Westbank Dr so don't let it confuse you!). Drive up Scottish Woods Trail until it dead ends into Camp Craft Rd. It will most likely be easier to park on Scottish Woods as opposed to Camp Craft. 

NOTE: Parking at the Scottish Wood Trailhead is paid parking. Vehicles parking on Camp Craft are subject to being towed.

Once you park you will walk to the trailhead that starts on Camp Craft Road. You will notice a Barton Creek Greenbelt sign and entryway. Be sure to take a quick look at the map here so you can see how far in Sculpture Falls is, as it will not have any signage for it on the trail. There are several other smaller waterfalls along the way that may confuse you. It is about a 1.5 mile hike to the falls one way. It starts with the "Hill of Life" which is mostly exposed to the sun, however when you get to the bottom the rest of the trail is tree covered and in the shade. There are mileage markers along the trail so you can keep track of how far you've gone. As mentioned before there are several smaller waterfalls and wading pools along the way that can be your own private paradise if you get there early enough!

Eventually you will come upon the actual Sculpture Falls. You may want to bring some water shoes or sandals to navigate across the creek as the rock is often very slippery. There is plenty of space to lay out towels/blankets on the banks of the creek and along a small bluff that gives the opportunity for some cliff jumping, but most people like to find a nice place to hang out in the water both above and below the falls. This spot is also very popular for dogs, so if you have a dog bring them along! You are allowed to have alcohol as well, so don't forget to pack some beers in a little cooler to maximize your summer/spring day!

Hungry after climbing back up the "Hill of Life?" Some local favs to stop for food within about a 10 minute drive in Austin are P Terry's Burger Stand Stand by Zilker Park at Barton Springs Rd & South Lamar Blvd (retro feel with a patio and awesome milkshakes!), and Homeslice Pizza on South Congress!