Named for the rock ledges that formed a waterfall and a natural lake, today these falls are hidden in the depths beneath Lake Marble Falls and seen only when the water level drops.
You may not get to view the submerged “marble falls,” but there’s no way to miss the granite for which Marble Falls is famous. This glimmering stone is seen–and sold–throughout the town.
While you’re at the lake, drive south on US 281 to the overlook at the edge of town for a terrific view of the 780-acre Lake Marble Falls and surrounding Hill Country. This view is said to be the inspiration for a song (“Hills of Home”) written by a local songwriter, Oscar J. Fox. Fox was the author of other famous cowboy tunes “Get Along Little Doggie” and “Home on the Range.”
Dog-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Johnson Park. This shady park is one of our favorite area stops with our dogs for picnics and walks. Located where Backbone Creek and Whitman Branch flow into Lake Marble Falls, the park also features a designated off-leash area. 230 S. Avenue J. Free.
Lakeside Park. Every August, this park is packed for the Lakefest Drag Boat Races , one of the largest drag boat races in the nation, but the rest of the year it’s a relaxing place for you to enjoy a dog walk or a picnic with your pooch. Info: 307 Buena Vista; www.marblefalls.org. Free.
Pottery Ranch. Located halfway between Burnet and Marble Falls, this Texas-sized store welcomes you and your dog to shop for everything from pottery to patio furniture, Texana to teak. Info: 6000 US 281 N. at Rodeo Town, Marble Falls; www.hillcountryteak.com.
Shaffer Bend Recreation Area. One of the largest parks on Lake Travis and one of the top LCRA parks, Shaffer welcomes dog lovers looking for an undeveloped site that offers good lake views, plenty of wildlife, and various kinds of vegetation. The 523-acre park has no potable water so bring some for you and your dog. A mile-long swimming area offers a chance to cool off after hiking. Info: 9 miles east of Marble Falls at 706 County Rd. 343A; www.lcra.org. Fee.
More Attractions
The Falls on the Colorado Museum. Visitors to this local history museum can trace the development of Marble Falls through a collection of historic photographs of the area before the building of the Starke Dam which created Lake Marble Falls. The museum is located in a school building built in 1891. Marble Falls Elementary School, 2001 Broadway St.
Granite Mountain. The pink granite used in the construction of the Texas State Capitol building came from this quarry which is still in operation today just west of town. A century ago, hundreds of stonecutters from Scotland along with gangs of Texas convicts performed the backbreaking work of cutting the stone from Granite Mountain. Today, visitors can’t enter the quarry itself but can view the goings on from a rest stop located just across from the quarry. You’ll find granite items for sale at Stone Design Granite Mountain, a large gift shop located just east of Granite Mountain. Look for everything from kitchen countertops to bookends and paperweights at this shop. Just west of Marble Falls on RM 1431; rest stop is located on the north side of the highway.
Highland Arts Guild Gallery. The Hill Country has long attracted artists who appreciate the area’s natural beauty. This gallery features many of these artists and artisans and it’s a great place to find that special bluebonnet painting. 318 Main St.
Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center. This unique, pie-shaped building makes a good first stop in town for maps and information on attractions and dining in Marble Falls. 100 Ave. G.