LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Dittmar Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Dittmar Falls
Dittmar Falls is a tucked-away Texas cascade that offers a quiet, natural setting for hikers willing to seek it out. Because the falls are not widely documented, water flow is highly seasonal — a modest trickle in dry periods and a stronger drop after significant rainfall — making each visit a slightly different experience. The approach rewards those looking for solitude more than folks seeking a heavily maintained attraction; expect an informal path and uneven terrain, and come prepared with good navigation and sturdy footwear for a pleasant half-day outing.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Official surface, grade, and any USFS trail number or class are not documented in the available records. The route may include faint or unmarked sections and occasional off-trail navigation, so plan for uneven footing and natural obstacles. Essential preparation includes sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and a reliable map or GPS device.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a quiet and natural environment. The waterfall's flow may depend on recent rainfall, and the surrounding area may be rugged or undeveloped.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Dittmar Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Dittmar Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and after periods of rainfall are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall's flow may be more prominent.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The area may have uneven terrain, unmarked trails, and potential wildlife hazards. Visitors should exercise caution, stay aware of their surroundings, and avoid visiting during inclement weather.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Comal Rv, 5.1 miles away, not on Dittmar Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
146 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 94 years of record
3.62 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Comal Rv at New Braunfels, TX (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
143 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
143 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
144 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
143 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
143 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
156 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
149 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid January to late January, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lake Dunlap hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 43 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 532 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 42 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 21 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 532 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 43 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location and directions to Dittmar Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local guides or resources for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas near the falls.
Elevation
541 feet above sea level
Coordinates
29.653282° N, -98.064452° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the location is not well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and prepare for uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
CW B203 Tubers Delight
Days Inn by Wyndham New Braunfels
CW B202 Camp Boogie Bahn B202
Wingate by Wyndham New Braunfels
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
North Park
17.5 miles away · 20 sites
Overview North Park is only open Friday at 3pm until Sunday at 2pm April 1 - Sept 30. The Park is a primitive campground and each site comes with a picnic table, grill, fire ring, and access to the lake. Recreation Canyon Lake has become well known for boating, swimming, scuba diving, and so much more. Facilities Available facilities in the park include a vault restroom, 3 water fountains, 20 tent only campsites. Natural Features North Park is perched on top of a limestone bluff overlooking the
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near New Braunfels, Texas
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near New Braunfels, Texas on SoakingSprings.
Explore Texas springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in Texas for additional outdoor experiences.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Texas wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Dittmar Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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