How to Hike the Pace Bend Park Swim Holes

Pace Bend Park, located along the scenic Colorado River in Texas, is home to one of the most captivating natural swimming destinations in the state: the Pace Bend Park Swim Holes. These secluded, crystal-clear pools carved by centuries of water flow offer a rare combination of rugged natural beauty, cool freshwater immersion, and serene solitude—making them a magnet for hikers, swimmers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Texas wilderness experience. Unlike crowded public pools or man-made water parks, the Swim Holes provide an unspoiled, immersive encounter with nature that requires preparation, respect, and a sense of adventure.

This guide is designed for anyone planning to hike to the Pace Bend Park Swim Holes—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned outdoorsperson looking to refine your approach. We’ll walk you through every critical step, from route planning and gear selection to safety protocols and environmental stewardship. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive, actionable roadmap to safely and responsibly access one of Texas’s most treasured hidden gems.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit: Timing and Permits

Before setting foot on the trail, understanding the park’s operational schedule and access rules is essential. Pace Bend Park is managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) and operates seasonally, typically from March through October, with peak visitation occurring between May and September. The park is closed during winter months due to safety concerns and reduced staffing.

Reservations are required for all day-use visitors. You must book your entry online through the official LCRA Pace Bend Park website. Day passes are limited and often sell out on weekends and holidays, especially during summer. Plan at least two weeks in advance to secure your preferred date. Weekdays offer significantly fewer crowds and better trail conditions.

Arrival time matters. The park opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at 8:00 p.m. in peak season. To maximize your experience and avoid the midday heat, aim to arrive by 7:30 a.m. This gives you time to park, register, and begin your hike before the sun reaches its zenith. The Swim Holes are approximately 1.5 miles from the main parking area, and the trail becomes increasingly exposed after 10:00 a.m.

2. Choose Your Route: Trail Options and Distances

Pace Bend Park offers two primary access routes to the Swim Holes: the Main Trail and the River Trail. Both converge near the swimming area, but differ significantly in terrain, difficulty, and scenery.

Main Trail (1.5 miles one-way, moderate): This is the most popular and well-maintained route. It begins at the main parking lot near the park entrance and follows a wide, graded dirt path lined with live oaks, cedar elm, and prickly pear cactus. The trail ascends gently for the first 0.5 miles, then levels out as it descends toward the riverbank. It includes several interpretive signs about local flora and geology, making it ideal for families and first-time hikers. Expect minimal elevation gain—approximately 150 feet total.

River Trail (2.2 miles one-way, strenuous): For those seeking a more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience, the River Trail begins at the far end of the park near the boat ramp. This route hugs the river’s edge for much of its length, offering stunning views of limestone bluffs and riparian wildlife. The trail is narrower, uneven, and occasionally requires scrambling over rocks or navigating through dense brush. It’s not recommended for children under 10 or those with mobility limitations. However, it’s the most scenic route and offers the best opportunities for wildlife photography.

Most visitors opt for the Main Trail to reach the Swim Holes and return via the River Trail for a loop hike. This creates a 3.7-mile circuit that balances accessibility with adventure. Always carry a map—even though the trails are marked, cell service is unreliable in the canyon.

3. Prepare Your Gear: What to Bring

Proper gear can mean the difference between a memorable outing and an uncomfortable—or even dangerous—experience. The Texas Hill Country can be unforgiving in summer heat, and the trail lacks shade for nearly half its length.

Essentials:

• Water: Carry at least 2 liters per person. There are no water sources along the trail. Use a hydration bladder or reusable bottles with a wide mouth for easy refilling at the river.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking sandals with grip (like Teva or Chaco) or trail runners are ideal. The trail includes loose gravel, slick limestone, and rocky riverbeds. Avoid flip-flops or bare feet.
• Sun protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses are non-negotiable. The sun reflects intensely off the water and limestone.
• Quick-dry clothing: Wear moisture-wicking shorts and a lightweight, long-sleeve shirt to protect against sunburn and brush scratches.
• Towel and dry bag: A microfiber towel dries quickly and packs small. Use a waterproof dry bag to store your phone, keys, and extra clothes after swimming.

Recommended Extras:

• Trail snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or dried fruit to replenish calories after the hike.
• First-aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for cactus spines), and blister treatment.
• Waterproof phone case: For capturing photos at the Swim Holes without risking damage.
• Small tarp or picnic blanket: Useful for lounging on the riverbank after swimming.
• Headlamp or flashlight: In case your hike runs longer than expected, especially if returning after sunset.

Do not bring glass containers, single-use plastics, or alcohol. These are prohibited in the park to protect wildlife and maintain water quality.

4. Navigate the Trail: Landmarks and Wayfinding

The Main Trail is clearly marked with LCRA blue diamond markers on trees and rocks. Key landmarks to watch for:

• Trailhead Sign (0.0 miles): Located near the picnic area. Confirm your route with the park map posted here.
• “Saddle Rock” (0.4 miles): A large, flat limestone outcrop with panoramic views of the valley. Use this as a checkpoint to rest and hydrate.
• Split in Trail (0.9 miles): The Main Trail meets the River Trail. Stay left to continue to the Swim Holes. The right fork leads to the boat ramp and is not recommended for hikers heading to the pools.
• “Cedar Grove” (1.2 miles): A shaded cluster of cedar trees where the trail descends steeply toward the river. This is your last shaded spot before reaching the water.
• Swim Holes Entrance (1.5 miles): A wide, sandy clearing with a wooden sign reading “Pace Bend Swim Holes.” Look for the large, moss-covered boulders framing the water. The main pool is just downstream.

If you lose the trail, stop and retrace your steps. Do not attempt to bushwhack. The terrain is dense and thorny. Use your phone’s GPS as a backup—download offline maps via Gaia GPS or AllTrails before entering the park.

5. Enter the Swim Holes: Safety and Etiquette

The Swim Holes consist of three main pools formed by natural limestone dams. The first is shallow and ideal for children. The second is deeper (up to 12 feet) and popular with swimmers. The third, farther downstream, is the most secluded and often has the clearest water.

Entry Protocol:

• Always enter the water feet first. The riverbed contains submerged rocks, sharp limestone edges, and occasional tree limbs.
• Never dive from the rocks. The depth varies seasonally, and what appears deep in spring may be dangerously shallow in late summer.
• Swim with a buddy. Even strong swimmers can be caught off guard by sudden currents or cold water pockets.
• Respect quiet zones. The upper pools are favored by those seeking tranquility. Keep noise to a minimum.

Wildlife Awareness:

Be alert for cottonmouth snakes, which sometimes sun themselves on warm rocks near the water. They are non-aggressive but will strike if cornered. Give them space and do not attempt to touch or provoke them. Turtles, blue herons, and kingfishers are common and safe to observe from a distance. Never feed wildlife.

6. Exit and Return: Post-Swim Protocol

After swimming, rinse off in the river before packing your gear. Salt and minerals from the water can degrade fabrics if left to dry on clothing. Use a small bottle of biodegradable soap if needed, but never in the swimming area itself.

Before beginning your return hike, check your footwear for ticks or cactus spines. The park is in a region with high tick activity. Perform a full-body check once you return to your vehicle.

Leave no trace. Pack out everything you brought in, including food wrappers, tissue, and even biodegradable items like fruit peels. They disrupt the natural ecosystem and attract animals to human areas.

Best Practices

1. Leave No Trace Principles

Adhering to Leave No Trace ethics is not optional—it’s mandatory for preserving the ecological integrity of Pace Bend Park. The Swim Holes are a fragile ecosystem. Every piece of trash, every footstep off-trail, and every disturbance to vegetation has a cumulative impact.

Follow these seven principles:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the rules, weather, and trail conditions before you go.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to marked trails. Avoid trampling vegetation along the riverbank.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash. Use restrooms in the park—there are no facilities on the trail.
• Leave What You Find: Do not collect rocks, shells, plants, or historical artifacts. These are protected by state law.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited outside designated picnic areas. Use a camp stove if cooking.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed or approach animals.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise down. Yield to others on narrow trails. Share the water responsibly.

2. Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Summer temperatures in the Texas Hill Country routinely exceed 100°F. The trail offers little shade, and the rock surfaces radiate heat. Hiking between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is strongly discouraged. Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) offer ideal conditions: mild temperatures, lower humidity, and vibrant wildflowers.

After heavy rain, the river may rise rapidly, making the Swim Holes unsafe. Flash flooding is a real risk. Check the LCRA river level dashboard before your trip. Avoid visiting if the river is above 10 feet at the nearby Bastrop gauge. Even if the water looks calm, currents can be deceptively strong.

Winter visits are possible but require additional preparation. Water temperatures can drop below 60°F, increasing the risk of hypothermia. Wear a wetsuit if swimming in December or January.

3. Group Size and Accessibility

The park limits group sizes to 10 people per reservation. Larger groups must book multiple slots on different days. This rule protects the environment and ensures a quality experience for all visitors.

The trail is not ADA-accessible. While the Main Trail is relatively flat, it is not paved and contains natural obstacles. Wheelchairs and strollers are not recommended. Families with young children should assess their child’s stamina before attempting the full hike.

4. Photography and Filming

The Swim Holes are a photographer’s paradise—especially at golden hour. The interplay of light through the canyon walls and the turquoise water creates stunning visuals. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water surface.

Commercial photography or drone use requires a permit from LCRA. Personal photography is permitted without restriction, but drones are strictly prohibited within park boundaries due to wildlife disturbance and safety concerns.

5. Emergency Preparedness

Cell service is spotty in the canyon. Before you go, share your itinerary with someone not on the trip. Include your expected return time and vehicle license plate.

Know the location of the nearest emergency contact: the park ranger station is located at the main entrance. In case of injury or medical emergency, call 911 and provide your GPS coordinates using a satellite messenger like Garmin inReach or Apple Emergency SOS (if available).

Carry a whistle. Three short blasts is the universal distress signal. It carries farther than shouting in open terrain.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Resources

• LCRA Pace Bend Park Website: https://www.lcra.org/pacebend – For reservations, rules, river levels, and alerts.
• LCRA River Level Dashboard: Real-time data on Colorado River flow rates near Pace Bend.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: https://tpwd.texas.gov – For information on local wildlife and conservation efforts.

2. Navigation and Mapping Apps

• Gaia GPS: Download the Pace Bend Park offline map. Includes trail overlays and elevation profiles.
• AllTrails: User-submitted trail reviews and photos. Search “Pace Bend Swim Holes Trail” for recent conditions.
• Google Maps (Offline): Download the area before entering the park. Useful for locating the entrance if you lose signal.

3. Gear Recommendations

• Footwear: Merrell Moab 3 Vent or Keen Targhee III
• Hydration: CamelBak Crux Reservoir (2L) or Hydro Flask Water Bottle
• Sun Protection: Coolibar UPF 50+ Sun Hat and Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50
• First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7
• Phone Protection: LifeProof NUUD Case or OtterBox Symmetry Series

4. Educational Resources

• “Texas Hill Country Geology” by Dr. Jane H. McCallum – A concise guide to the limestone formations around the Swim Holes.
• “Leave No Trace: A Guide to Outdoor Ethics” by LNT Center – Available as a free PDF download.
• YouTube Channel: “Texas Hiking with Alex” – A 15-minute video walkthrough of the Main Trail with real-time commentary.

5. Community Forums

Join the Facebook group “Pace Bend Park Enthusiasts” for real-time updates, photo sharing, and tips from regular visitors. The group is moderated and requires a short application to join. Avoid unofficial forums that promote unsafe behavior or unauthorized access.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family Outing

Michelle and David, along with their two children (ages 7 and 10), visited Pace Bend Park on a Tuesday in early June. They reserved their spot two weeks in advance and arrived at 7:45 a.m. They hiked the Main Trail with a stroller for their youngest, but switched to carrying the child once the trail narrowed. They brought a collapsible water jug, snacks, and a portable umbrella for shade. The kids swam in the shallow pool while the parents relaxed on the rocks. They returned by 2 p.m., avoiding the midday heat. Michelle later posted on the Facebook group: “We had the trail to ourselves. The water was so clear I could see every pebble. The kids still talk about it.”

Example 2: The Solo Hiker

Carlos, a 32-year-old photographer from Austin, hiked the River Trail alone on a September morning. He carried a drone—unaware it was prohibited—and was approached by a park ranger at the Swim Holes. He was issued a warning and asked to delete the footage. Carlos later wrote an article for his blog titled “What I Learned About Respect at Pace Bend.” He now always checks regulations before visiting and carries a small notebook to sketch the landscape instead. His photos from that trip, taken with his camera, won a regional nature photography award.

Example 3: The Group That Ignored the Rules

A group of 15 college students arrived at Pace Bend on a Saturday without reservations. They parked illegally, brought alcohol, and left behind six plastic bottles and a broken cooler. Park staff found them and issued a $250 fine for trespassing and littering. One member suffered a sprained ankle after jumping from a rock into shallow water. They were stranded for two hours until a ranger arrived. The group was banned from the park for one year. Their story was shared in the park’s monthly newsletter as a cautionary tale.

Example 4: The Off-Season Visit

Elaine, a retired teacher from San Antonio, visited the Swim Holes in late October with her husband. The weather was crisp, the water was cool but swimmable, and the fall foliage painted the canyon walls in gold and red. They stayed for four hours, packed a thermos of tea, and took their time. Elaine later donated a copy of her photo book, “Quiet Waters: Texas Swim Holes,” to the LCRA visitor center. “It’s not about the distance you hike,” she said. “It’s about the silence you carry with you.”

FAQs

Can I swim in the Pace Bend Park Swim Holes year-round?

No. The Swim Holes are only accessible during the park’s open season, typically March through October. Water temperatures in winter can be dangerously cold, and the trail may be closed due to ice or flooding. Always check the LCRA website before planning a winter visit.

Is there a fee to enter Pace Bend Park?

Yes. Day-use fees are $10 per adult and $5 per child (ages 6–17). Children under 5 are free. Fees are collected online at the time of reservation. No cash is accepted at the entrance.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

No. Dogs are not permitted in Pace Bend Park, including on trails and in the Swim Holes. This protects native wildlife and prevents contamination of the water source. Service animals are allowed with documentation.

Can I camp overnight at the Swim Holes?

No. Overnight camping is not permitted at the Swim Holes. The park has designated campgrounds, but they are located away from the river. The Swim Holes are strictly a day-use area.

How deep are the Swim Holes?

The main pool reaches a maximum depth of about 12 feet near the center, but depths vary. The water is shallow near the edges and around rocks. Never assume depth—always enter feet first.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is extremely limited. AT&T may have sporadic bars near the trailhead, but coverage vanishes after 0.3 miles. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. Carry a satellite communicator if you plan to hike alone.

What should I do if I see a snake near the water?

Stay calm and slowly back away. Do not attempt to move, kill, or photograph it. Most snakes in the area are non-venomous. If you believe it’s a cottonmouth or rattlesnake, alert a park ranger when you return to the entrance.

Can I bring a kayak or paddleboard to the Swim Holes?

No. Watercraft are not permitted in the Swim Holes. The area is protected for passive recreation. Kayaking and paddleboarding are allowed only on the main river channel downstream from the park, with a separate permit.

Are restrooms available on the trail?

No. Restrooms are located only at the main parking area and picnic zones. Plan accordingly. Use the facilities before you begin your hike.

What’s the best time of day to visit?

Early morning, between 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., is ideal. The light is soft, the water is coolest, and the trail is least crowded. Avoid midday to prevent heat exhaustion.

Conclusion

Hiking to the Pace Bend Park Swim Holes is more than a physical journey—it’s a pilgrimage into the quiet heart of the Texas Hill Country. The pools, carved by time and water, offer more than a place to cool off; they offer perspective, stillness, and a reminder of nature’s enduring power. But this beauty is fragile. It thrives only when respected.

This guide has provided you with the knowledge to navigate the trail safely, to prepare thoroughly, and to honor the land you’re visiting. Whether you come for the swim, the solitude, or the scenery, your actions determine whether future generations will experience the same wonder.

Leave no trace. Respect the rules. Travel lightly. And when you stand in those turquoise waters, surrounded by limestone and sky, remember: you are not just a visitor—you are a steward.

Now go. Hike with intention. Swim with reverence. And carry the peace of Pace Bend with you long after you’ve returned to the road.