Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool Facts

• Firstly, the truly breathtaking site known as Hamilton Pool ranks as another one of those rather incredible geological marvels. That’s because, like some others, the gorgeous site still remains virtually unknown outside of its own immediate area. However, it forms a popular destination for tourists who come to its area and then accidentally discover it.
• However, two Native American tribes, the Lipan and the Tonkawa, of the Apache Nation, previously utilized the site until the 19th century. But, the fabulous site then passed to the Hamilton family, who purchased it in the 1860’s, after the departure of the tribes. The family owned it until they decided to sell it to the state in the late 20th century.
• This incredible site also now serves as the cornerstone of the marvelously scenic Hamilton Pool Preserve. This legally protected area the state later established in the year 1985. Furthermore, the entire Preserve further constitutes a small but gorgeous protected area that covers roughly 232 acres (93.9 ha). This has allowed for an ongoing restoration of the local ecosystem.

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Hamilton Pool Physical Description 

First of all, the magnificent Hamilton Pool remains rather unique in several ways. The water of the awesome site comes from a small waterfall which steadily feeds and maintains the popular pool. Furthermore, this small but nonetheless picturesque waterfall plunges a total of about 50 ft (15.2 m).

Yet that is not the only remarkable trait of this fabulous geological marvel. That holds true due to the fact that the waterfall never completely dries up. But, it does slow to a trickle at times, due to various factors. As a result of this, the dimensions of the pool vary greatly. However, in terms of depth, the pool stays quite shallow.

The surrounding rocks are composed of limestone, and the natural filtering action keeps the water a jade green. The pool even remains surrounded by numerous large limestone slabs. And last but not least, numerous stalactites can even be seen hanging from the ceiling of the underground portion.

Hamilton Pool Location, Formation, and Ecology

It must be noted that the stunning marvel that we call the Hamilton Pool, with its picturesque beauty sits about 23 mi (37 km) west of Austin, Texas, in the United States. Its beauty stands out among the otherwise relatively harsh nature of its surroundings in this portion of North America.

Geologists remain uncertain when Hamilton Pool formed, yet believe it happened at least 10,000 years ago. But, its formation occurred due to the forces of erosion, working over a vast span of time. In addition, the dome covering an underground river collapsed at that time, forming the grotto.

Also, the waters of the breathtaking pool eventually flow into the mighty Colorado River. This area forms a small oasis in the region and, as a result, teems with flora and fauna. The stone overhang stays covered in dark green moss, and the banks teem with mountain juniper and various small shrubs.

Not only that, but several rare bird species also make their home around the pond. Officials allow public swimming, yet carefully monitor the activity since they do not artificially maintain the water quality. As a result, the site occasionally closes to public swimming, for public safety.

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