Hike to Spicewood Springs via Spicewood Canyon Trail

Spicewood Spring is a spring-fed swimming hole in Colorado Bend State Park and can be reached in one of two ways. There is an out and back trail that will take about 3.6 miles round trip if you just want to swim, but I prefer turning it into a scenic hike that takes you through Spicewood Canyon and ending with a rewarding dip in the spring.

There is convenient parking at the trailhead for both the Spicewood Springs Trail and Spicewood Canyon Trail. You will follow the single trail for 1.8miles until there is a fork in the path. There will be signs for the Spicewood Springs Trail (marked with yellow markers) to the left, but you want to take the Spicewood Canyon Trail to the right (marked with red markers). Once you head right you will start to gain elevation until you reach the ridge that overlooks pools and waterfalls in the Colorado River Canyon. Continue following the red markers along the ridge for another 1.6 miles until you meet back up with the Spicewood Springs Trail. At this point you will follow this trail back down for another 1.8 miles until you reach Spicewood Springs.

Take your shoes off, strip down, and jump in! The swimming hole is 8 feet deep and has beautifully clear water. Be careful though, the rocks are rather slippery and I initially fell in with my clothes on. After you've had your fill, follow the Spicewood Springs Trail out until you reach the parking lot again. This is a fun and scenic hike, but make sure to pack lots of water- it's hot!