Best Day Trip – Wet

TIE: Krause Springs; Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve

Find your favorite dose of natural wonder out west on Highway 71. Hamilton Pool, as evidenced by anthropological remains, has been a killer swimming hole for thousands of years. Picnic and swim in the area of the collapsed grotto and 50-foot waterfall, or get your hiking and bird-watching done deeper into the 232-acre preserve. Twenty minutes past the Hamilton Pool turn-off is the magical Krause Springs. Krause's waterfall and grotto are equally enchanting, though more reminiscent of a fairy habitat than a prehistoric hang-out. The perpetually grumpy gatekeeper of this private park is all part of the charm.

Krause Springs
830/693-4181
www.krausesprings.net

Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve
24300 Hamilton Pool Rd., Dripping Springs, 512/264-2740
parks.traviscountytx.gov