Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Type: Trail	Rating: (3.89)
Difficulty: (2.54)	Solitude: (3.02)
Length: 5.00 Miles	Elevation Gain: N/A
ADAAccessible: Yes
Dogs Allowed: No	Bikes Allowed: No
Cost: Free	More Information: More Info
City: Belton	County: Bell

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Larger Map

Chalk Ridge Falls Park includes an enchanting waterfall and lots of creek-side trail. (Click on map for larger view) (Click on map for larger view)
Maptech® USGS Topographic Series™, ©Maptech®, Inc. 603-433-8500, www.maptech.com/topo Copyright 2000 Maptech, Inc.

Getting there: Exit from I-35 and head west on FM 2484 for about one mile. Turn right onto FM 1670 and head north for 3.5 miles. Look for the park entrance on the right. Proceed down the winding driveway to the parking area near the trailhead.

The Hike: The trails at Chalk Ridge present something of a mystery. At the trailhead, marked on the map by a waypoint of the same name, one finds an interpretive sign pointing out some of the animals one might find on the hike, but no trail map. So I set about mapping as much of the trail as I could in the time I had. Little did I realize that I would map a bit more than planned.

The trail starts off along a straight berm overlooking the Lampasas River to the left. The gravel surface here through the falls provides a very easy hike for those who are looking for a simple stroll. At perhaps a quarter mile into the hike a large wooden bridge provides a passage over a stream bed that empties into the river. Just over a small ridge lies the crown jewel of the park, the falls from which the park derives its name.

The first portion of the trail is paved, but some rougher stuff lay ahead.

What Chalk Ridge Falls lacks in size it makes up for in small details that made me want to sit and watch the water for some time. The water's descent follows a gentle, eliptical curve, vertical or rocky uneven crashes. But the chalk rock formations provide just enough of an uneven texture to the curve to cause the water to dance as it smoothly arches its way downward. A slab of harder rock in the middle of the falls proved to be more resistent to the water's will and so several pieces jut out defiantly into the torrent. Under the protective shield of the rock, ferns have taken hold and found an ideal place for themselves.

A winding boardwalk conveys the trail across a wide creek bed near the start of the hike.

The trail system at Chalk Ridge Falls is identified by wooden trail markers painted with different colors. The red markers are easily identifiable, but I'm unsure as to whether there are separate blue and green markers, or if they are one and the same. Turning left at the falls, a split in the trail goes left yet again for a quick turn back to the trailhead (blue/green marker) or to the right for an adventure of a different sort (red marker).

Chalk Ridge Falls, the feature that gives its name to the park that surrounds it.

The red trail option ventures downstream from the falls and then crosses the creek on a steel cable suspension bridge. If you're easily sickened by the rocking of a boat on the water you'll want to pass over the span alone, or else your companions may compare the shade of color on your face with lunch's guacamole.

The cable suspension bridge provides a safe, but wavy trip across the water downstream from the falls.

On the opposite bank the red trail turns to the left and begins its long journey following the Lampasas River downstream. A side trail forks away temporarily to pass closer to the ridge line to the right. In one spot the rock forms a small overhang that people seem drawn to, judging from the well-worn path leading up to it.

While the trail leading up to this point was wide and terribly easy, things get slightly more rough on this side of the park. The terrain is gentle, since it follows the contour of the river, but the trail itself is hemmed in on both sides by abundant grasses and bushes. Poison Ivy was present, but not too common earlier in this hike, but constantly brushing up against vegetation causes one to concentrate on what's coming up under foot to avoid any contact with it.

Erosion control mechanisms, such as this staircase, should not be avoided.

Along the trail red markers pointed the way to the northeast. At the waypoint "Last Marker" I encountered what I believe to be the final marker on the trail. It had an arrow that pointed straight ahead, so I marched onward.

The trail provides a number of opportunities to get into the river.

On the one hand, I had a suspicion that the trail should be ending soon. On the other hand I had a well worn, clearly visible trail in front of me with no signs or barriers telling me to stop. Tiring of the high grass, I thought of turning around. However, I also did not want to miss the end of the trail, which I imagined to be just around the next bend.

The red trail across the suspension bridge is more overgrown.

I was rewarded for my efforts by the second waterfall of the hike. Not nearly as picturesque as Chalk Ridge Falls, this small waterfall nevertheless provided a nice spot to stop for a snack. Still I continued on along the river bank until I ran into a boundary of sorts, the dreaded Poison Ivy. Whereas before an occassional plant would cause me to hug this or that side of the trail the Ivy now provided no passage, all the while the trail continued into the distance. What lies beyond would have to wait another day.

The red trail provides heavy tree cover, but also heavy grass coverage of the trail. Often the trail was even more overgrown that shown here.

It was not until after I got home and plotted out my track did I observe that a portion of my hike was probably on the edge of the Camp Tahuaya Boy Scout facility. Had the Poison Ivy not turned me back I might have found myself reciting the Scouting Pledge. Even on the return trip, I could not spy a sign indicating the proper edge of the park, so if you want to be absolutely safe, venture out just east of the last marker waypoint, or no further than the second waterfall.

From a bluff overlooking the stream that soon feeds Chalk Ridge Falls.

As you can see from the map, I did not even begin to explore any possible trails on the northern portion of the park. In all, the 4 miles I hiked out and back did not equal the reported 5 miles the park contains, so there is more to be discovered out there.

According to reports, the ADA (wheelchair) accessible parts of the trails include the Old River Road Trail (goes along the dam to boy scout camp) and partially accessible sections include the trail to the falls.

Important: Thanks to some useful info from other hikers, it has been made known to us that this park occassionally closes following dam discharges following heavy rains. These can take place weeks after heavy rains. The official website does not always post these closings, so it may be a good idea to call ahead before making the trip out there.

The Chalk Ridge Falls trailhead. An interpretive sign is under the tree on the righthand side of the trail. (Photo by Austin Explorer)	Another view of the falls, this time head on. (Photo by Austin Explorer)	A closeup of the suspension bridge. (Photo by Austin Explorer)
This water was running along the trail,just a few feet,not bad! (Photo by Miles)	This is what the small dam looks like now! (Photo by Miles)	(Photo by Miles)
This cave is about five miles down the trail,You have to climb to get to it though! (Photo by Miles)	The cave,Closer view (Photo by Miles)	(Photo by jennyj)
Fun little bridge for kiddies (Photo by jennyj)	(Photo by seejanplay7)	(Photo by seejanplay7)
(Photo by seejanplay7)	(Photo by seejanplay7)	(Photo by seejanplay7)
(Photo by jmitchell)	(Photo by jmitchell)	(Photo by jmitchell)
(Photo by jmitchell)	(Photo by jmitchell)	(Photo by jmitchell)
(Photo by jmitchell)	About 1/2 mile in. (Photo by msuda)	Almost at the end... (Photo by msuda)
The trail only goes 20 feet more to the left of where this photo was taken. Then the trail is blocked off and there is a collapsed bridge. If you cross the dry stream bed in another 50 feet you will come to this washed-out bridge. (Photo by BrownMJ127)	This is the trail head for the bridge that is washed out. (Photo by Branden)	Here is the bridge that is washed out. (Photo by Branden)
The main attraction at this park is the waterfalls that the kids love. (Photo by Branden)

Logs

Have you visited this location? What did you think of it? Submit your own log entry to let others know of your experiences and to keep track of your adventures.

A great way to spend a couple of hours.
User: TEddy - 1/16/2010 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: N/A

Standard riverside hike
User: M High - 11/5/2009 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 4.00 Miles Duration: N/A

With recent rains, the Lampasas River was running a few feet high and very swift. Only saw about ten people in three hours. The side trail leading to the small falls on the creek leading to the river was the most scenic - make sure not to miss the side-trip before the main falls. The suspension bridge has been out for a couple of years now, and a sign leading to the bridge says trail closed - so to continue along the 'red' trail you pretty much have to get your feet wet crossing the stream, which can be several feet deep in places - the best and safest place to cross is 10-20 feet downstream from the little dam above Chalk Ridge Falls, where the water is less than a foot deep. It appears that the red trail has not been maintained since the bridge fell, so there are plenty of fallen trees, overgrowth and a couple of places where the river has washed out the trail. The further you go, the more tenuous the trail (since it is not maintained and not getting many visitors) - easy to follow for the first half-mile, but I lost it several times past the last marker - although it's not like you're going to get lost, since you're walking along the river's edge the entire way. I went about a half mile past the last marker before turning around, before the second waterfall, at that point the trail was almost completely overgrown. One very big minus - tons of trash all over the trail, everywhere -- both on the front (open) part of the trail, as well as the back (closed) part of the trail. It needs a SERIOUS cleaning. Lots of fall color.

Wonderful Day to Explore
User: Daniel N - 11/2/2009 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.20 Miles Duration: N/A

Went to this park with my son and had a great day sitting by the falls and the creek. The water was rushing and the falls were at full flow. It was an incredible scene with the changing leaves and cool breeze. The entire time we were there we saw one other person.

Very nice park.
User: Branden - 9/7/2009 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: N/A

For this hike my son and his best friend came along and they were glad they did. We had a great time but it should be noted that the best part of the trail system is closed but you can get to it from another trail and it is well worth it. The waterfalls were awesome and there was enough hills to make it just hard enough for the boys to stay occupied. The park was very busy but it was labor day so it is to be expected. I only can hope that the Corp repairs the bridges and reopens the trail as the park is just not complete without it! But all in all very worth it.

Great place but you have to break the rules
User: Daniel N - 4/4/2009 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.50 Miles Duration: 45 minutes

We took our son hiking with us and were going to play at the waterfalls (which were beautiful) but there was a family of twelve being loud and obnoxious. We went of the trail and crossed the barrier and I am so glad we did. The bridge is down and it is disappointing that the Corps of Engineers has done nothing about it. However, after fording the river we followed the trail to a very cool and very secluded cliff face with caves and trails. We went down to the river and hung out on the sandbars with our toes in the water and it was a great time. By the time we got back to the waterfall the group had gone and we were able to enjoy the waterfalls and creek and Brendan was able to splash around and play.

Damaged Bridge cuts park short
User: BrownMJ127 - 11/18/2008 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 1.00 Mile Duration: 45 minutes

I went to hike this trail and found that the suspension bridge was washed out. The trail beyond was closed off and over grown. I never escaped the sound of autos crossing over the dam. I saw a number of people on the trail and due to its exceptional short length we kept running into each other. The only part of the park open for hiking is the wheel chair area. The park's bridges need to be repaired in order to be worth the drive.

Some trails are more difficult than others....
User: rainwatter - 6/30/2008 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.75 Miles Duration: 2 minutes

After entering the trailhead, we took the first set of stairs down to the creekbed. We followed the creek and crossed just passed where the bridge is washed out. We then followed a path up the steep cliff (I'm sure it is not that bad, but with my 5 year old, it was very intense) and then back down between the waterfalls and the little damn. We crossed the creek and stayed on the main path for a bit, and then took minor path that meanders alongside an expansion in the creek where we saw 3 snakes.

There were only a few places where we couldn't hear other park guests.

Still damage from 2007 flooding
User: leatherlynne - 6/22/2008 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.00 Miles Duration: 2 hours

We arrived early in the morning and there were very few people their, mainly those fishing in the spillway. The trash along the main fishing areas was unbelievable. There were baby diapers, food containers, plastic bottles, and broken glass everywhere. Very sad.

The cable bridge was washed out. Many trails have encountered damage as well. We climbed down and followed the water for a better hike.

We saw several deer, frogs, and at least four snakes. I believe one could have been a rattler, but not positive. Brown and big was enough warning for me to stay away.

Nice easy hike
User: JNelson - 3/18/2008 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 3.50 Miles Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Need to go all the way up the dry creekbed to appreciate this hike.

User: gtbevo - 2/23/2008 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 3.00 Miles Duration: 4 minutes

We had beautiful weather to hike in this park. There were lots of people at the beginning but it really thinned out as we got further into the park. We spent most of our hike along the perimeter of the park, staying almost exclusively along the fence line.

At one point we needed to cross the river and just took our shoes off and waded across. The water was wonderful - not cold at all. We ended by coming back down the streambed and were able to see all of the springs that come from the caves and sides of the ravine. A very enjoyable hike.

Great Spot
User: squidulum - 9/15/2007 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: 3 minutes

This was a very enjoyable hike. We encountered quite a few folks, but everyone was friendly. The creek was scenic and reminded me of places I'd hiked in the Northeast part of the country.

Get off the trails to see the real beauty
User: lizardking - 9/15/2007 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.50 Miles Duration: 4 minutes

as you aproach the boardwalk bridge. dont cross it. instead go down the stairs and turn right, and start walking the river bed. this is were you discover the real jewls of chalk ridge. the river bed will lead you back to the main road.

since the park is closed, a friend and i sneek in at the spill way and hit the trail from the back.

Park Closed
User: jeff - 9/8/2007 [View Log Page]
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Don't try it till maybe October. The park is closed due to water releases from the dam. They told me that they had to do several rescues recently. We drove up from Austin, did not know it was closed. Closing info was not displayed at the Stillhouse official site either. Looking forward to the hike this fall, but will call first.

Cool Bridge
User: jsr59jsr - 5/2/2007 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: 5 hours
Nice walk, have to go off the trail and down the stream for some good fun.

Crowded at the start .... great after a mile.
User: msuda - 3/4/2007 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 3.10 Miles Duration: 1 hour, 10 minutes
A lot of families, fitness walkers, and young couples just hanging out for the 1st 3/4 mile of the trail. Once you get past the suspension bridge there's only people who are there for the hike. This would be a great place to hike if you wanted to cool off in the stream during the hot summer days. The main part of the trail follows the stream almost all the way. Saw 4 Armadillo's along the path too!

Nice waterfall
User: toobsox - 11/10/2006 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 4.00 Miles Duration: 3 minutes
This hike is worth it just for the waterfall. There were lots of people though, so there wasn't much solitude.

Great Hike with lots to look at
User: jmitchell - 3/12/2006 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 2.00 Miles Duration: N/A
Beautiful area. Lots of side trails. There are supposed to be caves above the falls but you have to wade upstream to get to them. (Bring water shoes) Overall I was very surprised... the area is well Worth going to! (And its FREE!!!) Oh and, Lots of people were fishing so there must be some fish there.

User: seejanplay7 - 10/15/2005 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 6.00 Miles Duration: N/A
One of my favorite places to hike & relax in this area. The area across the suspension bridge is rather overgrown, however it does provide for a peaceful hike along the river or opportunities for wading. Parts of the trail appear to have been the training course for an engineering course ... lots of different types of (well-built) bridges, stairs, walkways, etc. This hike is a jewell, time well-spent :)

Water Moccasin!
User: jennyj - 5/15/2005 [View Log Page]
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Too many people who leave trash...fisherpeople seem to have no conscience when it comes to leaving worm boxes and beer cans....ewwwww/otherwise it's a fine little trail

User: drw123 - 3/13/2005 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 4.50 Miles Duration: N/A
Had a great time, we are a mixed group of kids and adults with a range of ability and we all found something challenging to be proud of. Although a sign at trailhead says NO PETS, we encountered a very large black lab on a leash, a very frisky, fat Australian sheepdog running all over without a leash and another dog on a leash. I saw a child become frightened because of the wild unleashed dog. Shame shame. All in all, a nice three hours.

User: Miles - 11/28/2004 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 8.00 Miles Duration: N/A
Great place to go to see the running waters of central Texas!Now is the time to hike this trail the waters are beautiful,you must go soon,this don'st happen very often!Go now and enjoy!This is one of the best hikes in central Texas!

An easy afternoon hike
User: Peter Maurer - 7/11/2004 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 4.00 Miles Duration: N/A
I hiked the trail pretty much as described except for an extra loop around the falls. When you get to the falls area, the trail branches to the right & left. The left branch leads to the suspension bridge, while the right leads to a small concrete dam on the creek. You can walk across the dam, jumping over the spillway. From here the trail leads up the hill and is very steep. Eventually you get to a place where you have a good view of the falls from the other side of the creek. The trail continues on and meets the main trail near the suspension bridge. The river trail does get monotonous, but the second falls is worth it. It's only a foot or two wide, but is 10-15 feet high and very pretty. You have to cross the stream to get a good look at it. I turned around at this point figuring there wouldn't be much to see beyond this point. If you're coming from the north, exit I35 at US290 and proceed for about a mile to the FM1670 exit. Go south (you don't have any choice) and cross the dam. The park entrance is on the left just after you cross the dam.

A great hike.
User: moore9ksucats - 3/18/2004 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: N/A
We hiked this trail during spring break and found lots of kids gathered at the falls. The rest of the trail was very peaceful. We took a side trip at the first bridge. There is a stair case going down to the stream. We hiked up stream for a little over 1/2 mile. We found many springs gushing from the rock face and some caves with water flowing out of them. Also saw a lot of wildlife in this area. Don't attempt the side trip in wet weather however as mostly hiked in the stream bed.

Father,Dauther Hike
User: Miles - 2/22/2004 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 5.00 Miles Duration: N/A
Casis & I hiked The five mile trek sunday and had a blast.Casie only fell once,and me , well I danced a funny little dance at made Casie laff, made her day and mine as well , we had a really great day.The springs were really lovely and the day was a good one.We had a great time together. it was one of those days i won't soon forget.A good day with my Dauther.

On and on
User: Austin Explorer - 4/26/2003 [View Log Page]
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Distance: 4.00 Miles Duration: N/A
The trail along the river can be a bit monotonous, particularly if you're a little tired of brushing up against grass and you didn't put on bug repellant! The water fall at this part is very nice and I recommend you get there earlier in the day before the sun bathers and water waders cut into the solitude.