The Rock Shelter Trail Is Best 1 Mile Waterfall Hike For Kids In Austin

Take the family to one of Austin’s most gorgeous places. McKinney Falls State Park is perfect for camping, strolling, and bird-watching. If you don’t feel like taking on a strenuous hike, venture down the Rock Shelter Trail. This breezy path takes you to some amazing lookouts. Your kids will love this easy 1-mile waterfall hike right here in Austin.

There are several trails within McKinney Falls State Park, but if you’re looking for something easy – opt for The Rock Shelter Trail.

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Right away, you’ll be greeted with stunning waterfalls.

TranceMist/Flickr

You don’t even have to break a sweat in order to see the state park’s main attraction.

transient musket/Flickr

After you’ve soak up its magnificent beauty, explore the shady Rock Shelter Trail.

Sam Matthews/All Trails

Along the way, you’ll see giant Cypress trees, spooky caves, and colorful birds.

christy lasalle/All Trails Keep your eye out for “Old Baldy.” This 500-year-old tree has awed Austinites for generations.

The young ones will love walking under the fascinating limestone rock shelter.

mlhradio/Flickr Historians believe that Native Americans used this natural overhang as shelter from 500 BCE to the 18th century. This gorgeous place is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The whole family will love an outing to McKinney Falls State Park.

atmtx/Flickr This lovely oasis sits at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway. It’s open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. To learn more, visit McKinney Falls State Park’s website here.

Looking for more nature fun? You’re sure to love these eight under-appreciated state parks near Austin.

Wil C. Fry/Flickr

TranceMist/Flickr

transient musket/Flickr

Sam Matthews/All Trails

christy lasalle/All Trails

Keep your eye out for “Old Baldy.” This 500-year-old tree has awed Austinites for generations.

mlhradio/Flickr

Historians believe that Native Americans used this natural overhang as shelter from 500 BCE to the 18th century. This gorgeous place is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

atmtx/Flickr

This lovely oasis sits at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway. It’s open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. To learn more, visit McKinney Falls State Park’s website here.

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