HillCountry.ai network
Canyon LakeThings to DoExperiencesCanyon Lake Gorge
Back to Experiences Ticketed

Canyon Lake Gorge

16029 South Access Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133 Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (last entry 3 p.m.), closed Sunday
Address
16029 South Access Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Hours
Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (last entry 3 p.m.), closed Sunday
Best For
Geology enthusiasts and guided hikers
Dogs
No pets allowed
Best time to visitGuided tours are often available on weekends; book in advance. Admission$20.00 for guided tours Getting thereIn Canyon Lake

Why people come here

  • see dinosaur footprints
  • view perfectly preserved fossils
  • learn about aquifer geology
  • observe exposed limestone faults
  • support local preservation efforts

Carved by a historic 2002 flood, Canyon Lake Gorge exposes 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks and ancient limestone formations below the reservoir spillway.

Created during a massive 2002 flood event, Canyon Lake Gorge is a 64-acre geological phenomenon sliced into the earth below the reservoir's spillway. The rushing waters stripped away soil and rock to reveal ancient cretaceous limestone, perfectly preserved fossils, and dinosaur footprints dating back 110 million years. This textbook example of Hill Country geology provides a rare look at the inner workings of the Trinity Aquifer, complete with visible faults, fractures, and seeps.

Staying Overnight?

Canyon Lake vacation rentals managed by Backroads Hill Country, in business since 2001.

Browse Rentals

What's Happening?

Markets, live music, and seasonal events around Canyon Lake & the upper Guadalupe. Updated as new dates are announced.

See Events

What You'll Experience

  • ancient limestone layers
  • 110-million-year-old dinosaur footprints
  • fossilized sea urchins
  • exposed Trinity Aquifer springs
  • waterfalls and lagoons

Directions

Frequently Asked Questions

How was Canyon Lake Gorge formed?

The gorge was created in 2002 when over 34 inches of rain caused floodwaters to carve a 64-acre path below the Canyon Lake spillway.

Are dogs allowed at Canyon Lake Gorge?

No, pets are not allowed at Canyon Lake Gorge.

What geological features can be seen on a tour?

Visitors can see ancient cretaceous limestone, 110-million-year-old dinosaur footprints, perfectly preserved fossils like sea urchins, and exposed sections of the Trinity Aquifer.

More of the area About Canyon Lake