Trip to Pedernales Falls State Park

I'm so glad you discovered the magic of Pedernales in winter! That "North American Jiuzhaigou" nickname gets thrown around a lot, but honestly? Winter is when it truly earns it. A few pro tips from my last winter visit: The "golden hour" reflection off those limestone pools is INSANE in winter – the sun sits lower, so you get that perfect shimmer for photos without the harsh summer glare. Your timing was spot-on! ✨ For parents with kids: The lower falls area (see your Trail Map 9, that bottom loop near the water) is basically nature's playground. The limestone "steps" create natural splash pools that are shallow enough for toddlers to safely wade in summer, but in winter they're perfect for skipping stones like your boys did! My kids spent 2 hours just building rock towers. Footwear PSA (adding to yours): Those rocks are SLICED by water – they're razor-sharp in places. I saw a guy in Tevas slice his toe open. Closed-toe hiking sandals at minimum! Your poor flip-flopped feet 😭 Winter secret: The "fossil hunting" is prime right now! Those limestone layers are full of marine fossils from when Texas was underwater. Kids go crazy finding ancient shells embedded in the rocks – brings the geology lesson to life! 🐚 Nearby recharge: After your hike, Johnson City has a hidden gem: East Main Grill does a brisket grilled cheese that'll make you forget you're tired. Or Texas Hills Vineyard is 10 minutes away for wine tasting with Hill Country views. The real Jiuzhaigou comparison? Pedernales has that same travertine pool magic, but Texas-style: you can actually climb on it, swim in it, and touch it. China's version is breathtaking but roped off. Here, you're in the art. So glad your parents loved it! Nothing beats multi-generational "wow" moments. And yes – 4 PM+ entry is clutch. I've rolled up at 4:30 with zero reservations and had the whole place to myself as day-trippers left. Feels like a secret! 🤫 Pro tip for next time: Camp at the park and do the East Trail at sunrise. The pools turn into mirrors for the sky, and you'll have the whole canyon to yourself. Pure magic! ⛺️🌅 #US #Texas #Austin