Overview
Texas Falls is one of the most striking short walks in the Green Mountain National Forest. The 1.2-mile loop traces both sides of a narrow gorge where Hancock Branch has carved sculpted potholes and cascades into the green metamorphic bedrock over thousands of years. A stone footbridge crosses the gorge midway through the loop, offering a direct view down into the largest pothole sequence.
The hemlock forest that surrounds the falls is one of the older stands of trees in this section of the national forest. Eastern hemlocks in the understory create deep shade that keeps the gorge cool even in July, and the moss-covered boulders on the gorge walls add to the atmosphere. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the glacial geology that created the potholes.
This is an honest short loop with about 100 feet of gain. It is not a workout hike in any meaningful sense. The value here is in the scenery, the geology, and the quiet of the hemlock shade. It pairs well with a visit to the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail a few miles away on Route 125.
The Route
Miles 0 to 0.3: Gorge overlook. From the parking area, the trail drops briefly to the main viewing area above Texas Falls. The stone footbridge spans the gorge here, directly above the deepest pothole. This is the most photographed spot on the trail. The bridge is well-constructed and provides a secure vantage point.
Miles 0.3 to 0.7: Upper loop. The trail climbs the north bank of the gorge through hemlock forest. The grade is gentle. Interpretive signs explain glacial geology and the formation of potholes. Views down into the gorge are available at several points.
Miles 0.7 to 1.2: Lower loop return. The trail descends on the south bank, passing through an open hardwood section before returning to the trailhead. The falls are visible from below at one more viewpoint near the end of the loop.
When to Visit
Spring (May through early June): High water volume creates the most dramatic falls and waterfall sound. The hemlock forest is particularly beautiful in spring. Some mud on the approach trail is possible.
Summer (June through August): The cool hemlock shade makes this a pleasant walk even on warm days. Parking fills on busy summer weekends, particularly holiday weekends. Arrive early.
Fall (September through October): Foliage color in the mixed hardwood sections provides good contrast against the hemlock green. Water levels are lower but the falls remain photogenic.
Winter: The falls and gorge ice over in cold winters, creating an ice formation that is impressive from the bridge. The loop trail is walkable on packed snow. Use traction devices on the gorge-edge sections if icy.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this route carry:
- Water for the walk (individual needs vary; the loop is short but it is a hot walk in July without shade on the open hardwood section)
- Camera (the bridge view is a classic photo opportunity)
- Sturdy footwear (the gorge edge can be slippery)
This is a short loop without significant wilderness exposure. No specialized gear is required.
Practical Details
The Texas Falls Recreation Site has a vault toilet at the trailhead. No fee as of 2026.
The trail is paved or hardened gravel for most of its length near the bridge viewpoints, making it accessible to visitors who may have difficulty on natural surface trails. The upper and lower loop sections are natural surface with moderate root and rock sections.
Dogs are welcome and must be under control. The gorge drop-offs require keeping dogs leashed in the falls area.
Cell service is limited but may be available from the parking area.
The Texas Falls site is a day-use area. No camping or overnight parking.
Getting There
From Middlebury, take Route 125 east approximately 10 miles. The Texas Falls Recreation Area is on the right side of Route 125, well-signed with a brown USFS recreational site sign. The drive from Middlebury takes about 15 minutes.
From Waitsfield via the Granville Gulf, take Route 100 south to Route 125, then west. Texas Falls is approximately 3 miles west of the Route 100/125 junction. The drive takes about 10 minutes from the junction.
The USFS Middlebury Ranger District at fs.usda.gov/greenmountain has current site information and road conditions for Route 125.