Big Bend has a little bit of everything — including waterfalls, despite the arid West Texas climate. Cattail Falls is hiding within the towering mountain peaks, accessible via a moderate, 5.7-mile hike. At 80 feet tall, it’s truly a hidden desert gem that belongs on your outdoor adventure bucket list.
Hiding deep within the mystical desert landscape of Big Bend National Park, Cattail Falls Trail is a 5.7-mile hike of moderate intensity.
AllTrails/Craig Parchman It’s an out-and-back route that ascends less than 700 feet, but features sweeping mountain views that make you feel on top of the world.
Most skill levels can enjoy the trail, as it’s relatively flat until the last mile or so.
AllTrails/Valerie Gordon Expect to spend about three hours on the hike if you’re walking at a leisurely pace.
Iconic West Texas vegetation lines either side of the path, painting a surface-level picture of scarcity that we know couldn’t be further from the truth.
AllTrails/Vlad G. The abundance of Mother Nature here is as prominent as anywhere else – it’s just in the form of majestic rock formations rather than lush greenery.
Despite the arid climate, little pockets of vibrancy are scattered along the trail.
AllTrails/Terri Cirvello Jungle-like, mossy overgrowth stretches into pristine oases, creating scenes reminiscent of a faraway tropical paradise.
On days when the clouds are low, you’ll definitely want to bring a camera.
AllTrails/Robert Cooper A wispy fog wraps around the mountain peaks, shrouding them in an air of mystery.
There are some loose rocks to scramble over in the last mile, so perhaps consider turning back beforehand if you have young children in-tow or deal with stability issues.
AllTrails/Will Liebmann Otherwise, the 80-foot high Cattail Falls is a tucked-away natural wonder whose beauty cannot be described in words.
Recent rains heavily dictate how powerful the flow will be, so plan your visit after a storm if possible.
AllTrails/Valerie Gordon Regardless – even if no more than a trickle is cascading down the rugged canyon walls – this hidden gem is worth your while.
You’ll park at the trailhead for Sam Nail Ranch. The road is prone to flooding after heavy rainfall, so check with NPS before heading out. Visit the AllTrails page to learn more.
AllTrails/Craig Parchman
It’s an out-and-back route that ascends less than 700 feet, but features sweeping mountain views that make you feel on top of the world.
AllTrails/Valerie Gordon
Expect to spend about three hours on the hike if you’re walking at a leisurely pace.
AllTrails/Vlad G.
The abundance of Mother Nature here is as prominent as anywhere else – it’s just in the form of majestic rock formations rather than lush greenery.
AllTrails/Terri Cirvello
Jungle-like, mossy overgrowth stretches into pristine oases, creating scenes reminiscent of a faraway tropical paradise.
AllTrails/Robert Cooper
A wispy fog wraps around the mountain peaks, shrouding them in an air of mystery.
AllTrails/Will Liebmann
Otherwise, the 80-foot high Cattail Falls is a tucked-away natural wonder whose beauty cannot be described in words.
Regardless – even if no more than a trickle is cascading down the rugged canyon walls – this hidden gem is worth your while.
Have you ever hiked Cattail Falls Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Check out our previous article for more epic Texas waterfall hikes: The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Texas Who Loves Waterfall Hikes.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Cattail Falls, Texas 79834, USA
