Go Beyond

Gorman Falls is one of the Lone Star State’s best tucked away treasures — a hidden gem of a site. Located along a remote section of the Colorado River, the falls are a part of Colorado Bend State Park. Although the falls are located a little more than a mile from the trailhead, getting there requires a semi-strenuous hike along a rugged but scenic trail. The last hundred yards of the trail require cautiously working your way down a steep descent along slick outcroppings of rock toward the Colorado River.

Hiking to Gorman Falls was worth every step. As Cheryl and I started our descent toward the falls, we were excited to hear the sound of the water in the distance. Although we were anxious to get there, we made sure every step was well-placed. We held on to the cables placed there by the park rangers as an extra security measure for hikers. When we took our final steps into the heavily shaded bluff next to the Colorado River we felt as though we had entered an outdoor cathedral.

These falls, fed by Gorman Springs, are absolutely beautiful. Cascading down from a 60-foot high limestone cliff, the calcium deposits in the water have created what look like window drapes. These formations are covered by green moss and ferns, adding a calming beauty to the picturesque scene. We sat in silence for the longest time, enjoying the sound of the falls, the shade of the trees, and a hint of a breeze. This, I thought to myself, is good medicine.

After enjoying the falls for a good half-hour, we started the slow hike back to the trailhead. Cheryl and I took our time, stopping to sit and chat along the way. No hurry. No rush. We had our hydration packs and plenty of snacks. Hiking to Gorman Falls was not about hiking fast. It was about enjoying our time together in a rugged but beautiful setting. This too, was good medicine for us.

When we returned to the trailhead, we were both happy that we had taken the time to hike to this hidden Texas treasure. According to my hiking app, we hiked 3.2 miles round trip. More importantly, Cheryl and I shared a fun personal adventure together and made a good memory at Colorado Bend State Park — one that we will enjoy for years to come.

This week’s Texas summer road trip has, in fact, been a week of making good memories together. Cheryl and I have traveled some 1,500 miles. Along the way we have enjoyed lots of great conversation, eaten some really good burgers, and visited some of the most beautiful parts of Texas. We know that it will be a while before we can get out and do another road trip together and that’s ok. Until then we will enjoy reflecting on our hike to Gorman Falls and all of the other fun adventures we experienced together this week.