People drive from all over the state to see the pink granite rock that rises 425 feet high and can be seen from miles away–and to complete an Enchanted Rock hike. ), 11 Delightful Things to Do in Driftwood, TX. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Copyright ©2021 101 Highland Lakes One of my favorite things to do in the Hill Country is Hiking Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg, Texas. Turn right on Milam St. (RR 965). Even if you can only visit in summer, just make sure you choose your time of day wisely. 4.9 5.4 mi / 344 ft gain Once inside the park, you can't miss either parking lots that are surrounded by picnic tables and well marked signs pointing towards the trails. Enchanted Rock SNA has 35 walk-in sites with water and 20 primitive sites. Enchanted Rock. Once you get past the entrance, park rangers will point you to the headquarters and parking spots. After years of erosion, the top layers of the rock broke away revealing the curved dome underneath. Texas doesn’t typically get extreme winters so hiking during winter will provide you with cooler weather and in the fall, maybe even a chance to glimpse some trees changing color. One last note: Legend states that “bad fortune and death will befall anyone who climbs the rock with bad intent,” according to the Texas State Historical Association. The most well-known trail at Enchanted Rock Natural Area is the Summit Trail. 19 Best Austin Swimming Holes in (+ Near) the City, Stargazing in Texas: Dark Sky Locations + Tips. It is a very doable hike, really. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable hiking shoes. I relaxed in my solitude, taking in the pure, unadulterated nature around me. Before you go: Reserve your Save the Day Pass online or by phone (512) 389-8900 in advance. There have been many rescues on Enchanted Rock where people have gotten to the top, exhausted and dehydrated, and completely drain their energy. The Turkey loop trail allows you to see two other formations in the park, Freshman Mountain and Turkey Peak. Make sure to grab a tripod for some incredible sunset pictures. TRAIL ETIQUETTE Trash your trash. There is no car or RV camping available. The peak at Enchanted Rock feels like an oasis. Bring your camera. So visit Enchanted Rock with good vibes and positive intentions, and you will have an unforgettable experience. The Summit Trail will guide you to the top of Enchanted Rock. All Rights Reserved. Enchanted Rock is a special place in the Texas Hill Country (Edwards Plateau). The Enchanted Rock Batholith stretches 62 squares miles and most of it is underground. Today, the state park remains a popular destination for those looking to commune with nature. Besides Enchanted Rock, there are Little Dome, Turkey Peak, and others that look like a dome as well in the same location. For aggressive rock climbers, consider participating in Granite Gripper, an annual climbing competition each fall. Austin Trails. Take Hwy 290 West to Fredericksburg. Photo by JoAnna Kopp. From San Antonio: Take Hwy 281 North to Johnson City. I could see for miles from the top of the dome. Texas summers are incredibly hot and hiking up a rock in the middle of the day in summer can turn into a miserable experience. Naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts alike travel to Enchanted Rock to soak in the amazing ecosystem that Enchanted Rock offers. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is popular almost year-round, so there will always be a wait on the weekends or holidays. Enchanted Rock covers 640 acres and rises 425 feet. Keep in mind that pets are no longer allowed to hike along the Summit Trail. As you hike up Enchanted Rock you will likely be excessively sweating, so having water to hydrate yourself is imperative. Hike Enchanted Rock. Challenge yourself and climb 425 feet in 0.6 miles. The Loop Trail is four miles long and takes you around the perimeter of the dome. There are also some public restrooms and a truck with some snacks. If you have ever visited Texas in the summer months, you know that temperatures can easily surpass the 100-degree mark. As congested as the park seemed at my arrival, there were no crowds on the dome. Just make sure to keep your pet on a leash! There are so many sites you can choose from, but you must hike in with everything you need as well as leave the site better than you found it. (You cannot swim here or ride bikes on the trails.) Hike the trails of this natural wonder to find a quiet spot, take a deep breath, and open your senses to all that Enchanted Rock has to offer. The park even puts on special hikes such as a moonrise hike or Stargazing 101 with a park ranger. 5.0. Hike to Enchanted Rock. That’s not to say options are limited though. Photo by JoAnna Kopp. Check out R We There Yet Mom for the story of a family who doesn’t whine their way to the top. Visit the park on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid any extra wait time. Enchanted Rock the biggest in a chain of large granite domes (monadnocks) that rise above the landscape in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Please see our, 15 Epic Hikes in Texas (+ Map to Find the Trails! Hike or climb this pristine pink-granite wonderland just outside Austin. Texas summers are incredibly hot and hiking up a rock in the middle of the day in summer can turn into a miserable experience. Enchanted Rock is the huge pink granite dome behind the sign, and can be seen for miles around. Over time this process has continued to happen over and over. There are water fountains located at the bottom of Enchanted Rock near the bathrooms, so filling up multiple water bottles is recommended. The Summit Trail gains elevation quickly so pacing yourself is incredibly important. We respect your privacy.Your information is safe and will never be shared. Although Texas is typically warmer than most areas, the top of Enchanted Rock can also get a cool breeze coming off of it. There are several outfitters and rock-climbing guide services listed on the website. Texas' Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Native Americans believed the pink granite dome had magical and spiritual powers. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Scenic views, geological wonders, and stunning beauty await. But there’s more at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area than just the dome. Because most of the trail is literally walking up Enchanted Rock, the trail to the top is typically labeled with trail markers attached to the rock all the way up. Take An Easy Out-And-Back Trail To Enter Another World At Enchanted Rock In Texas. Taking the time to plan accordingly by bringing plenty of water as well as choosing a time of day, There are so many sites you can choose from, but you must hike in with everything you need as well as leave the site better than you found it. About 15 minutes outside of Fredericksburg is Enchanted Rock State Park. Enchanted Rock is one of the best places in Texas to stargaze because of its dark nights. Photo by JoAnna Kopp. Staff at Enchanted Rock work hard to minimize night lighting so you can sit back and stargaze with ease. - See 2,265 traveler reviews, 1,735 candid photos, and great deals for Fredericksburg, TX, at Tripadvisor. The beautiful scenery and interesting geology that surround Enchanted Rock are remarkable, and choosing what time of year to visit is incredibly important. Enchanted Rock State Park (officially Enchanted Rock State Natural Area) is an easy day trip from Austin to Fredericksburg area. Enchanted Rock has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. Turkey Loop trail also guides you to the back of Enchanted Rock where many people go to rock climb as well as explore different caves within Enchanted Rock. The thru-hike is typically done from the Stuart Lake trailhead, because it reduces the total elevation gain by 2,600 feet relative to going the opposite direction (although it still takes in the punishing climb up Aasgard Pass, which rises 1,900 feet in less than a mile). Subscribe to our E-mail newsletter today to receive updates on the latest news. You can hike, backpack, camp, rock climb, picnic, bird, study nature, geocache and stargaze. Enchanted Rock is an exfoliation dome. All of which are fairly short and family-friendly. Bring your telescope and attend a Rock Star Party led by the Hill Country Astronomers. The massive pink granite dome rising above Central Texas has drawn people for thousands of years. Loop Trail: The trail is the longest trail in the park and takes you around the perimeter. While the summit of Enchanted Rock can be reached via a simple hike, the dome is well … Check it out! If you have ever visited Texas in the summer months, you know that temperatures can easily surpass the 100-degree mark. Stargazing: Scale the dome at sundown for a stunning view of the Milky Way. People drive from all over the state to see the pink granite rock that rises 425 feet high and can be seen from miles away–and to complete an Enchanted Rock hike. Humans have been visiting this rock for 12,000 years, and some believe it has spiritual significance. Although it may look like you are in for an easy climb, it actually is more like climbing a 30 story staircase and should be planned out accordingly. It’s an easy walk, so I recommend it if you have the time. Lower loop trail is longer at 4 miles and easier on knees, less exposed. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area consists of numerous peaks, each of them a separate highpoint of the granite bubble, most of which continues to … Keep in mind that most trails close 30 minutes after sunset (the Loop Trail remains open), so plan ahead if you hope to enjoy the night sky here. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: Enchanted Rock Hike - See 2,265 traveler reviews, 1,735 candid photos, and great deals for Fredericksburg, TX, at Tripadvisor. Rock climbing: Enchanted Rock has hundreds of routes that fit every skill level of rock-climbing enthusiasts. If you click through a link on Lone Star Travel Guide, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Take the Summit Trail, where you’ll climb a steep 425 feet in 0.6 miles. The park has been a … The rock is said to be "enchanted" because it "sings" at sundown - creaking and groaning caused when the granite cooks in the Texas heat all day, then cools rapidly after the sun dips below the horizon. Pick your poison; enjoy the rewards. Texas definitely has no shortage of beautiful hikes to embark on, but many are extremely long, difficult, or located in areas far too remote to access easily. The hiking location is about 18 miles north of Fredericksburg Texas. Enchanted Rock is considered an exfoliation dome, which means it is constantly eroding and changing to this day. Pick up a park map when you’re inside the park headquarters. The domes are a small and visible part of a huge underground area of granite called a batholith. You can hike, backpack, camp, rock climb, picnic, bird, study nature, geocache, and stargaze at the Enchanted Rock … We respect your privacy. Most of the time there will be lines of cars waiting to get into Enchanted Rock to hike and explore for the day. Not paying attention to where you are walking can result in a sprained ankle or injury. Hiking Enchanted Rock. Editor's note: This article was updated to reflect the March 1, 2016 changes and January 26, 2019 changes from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. I hope ya'll enjoyed the video well more like pictures of my hike with my boyfriend and friend at Enchanted Rock here in Texas. Unsubscribe at anytime. Enchanted Rock (16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg TX) is a pink granite mountain located in the Llano Uplift about 17 miles (27 km) north of Fredericksburg, Texas and 24 miles (39 km) south of Llano, Texas, United States. As of January 26, 2019 Texas State Parks uses a reservation system which is very helpful during peak seasons. When you are hiking Enchanted Rock, at first it may not look like a hard or long climb. This is also the only Enchanted Rock hike that allows pets. There are multiple pathways off of the rock beside the marked Summit Trail, just know if you decide to take a different trail that they are often a lot steeper and should be hiked with extreme caution. The avid hiker, camper, or photographer can all get their fix, and it's a place that can be equally enjoyed by beginners. The Enchanted Rock batholith stretches 62 miles — mostly underground. Hiking info for Enchanted Rock Summit Trail, located in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Texas. If you’re a fan of camping, backpacking, rock climbing, geocache, stargazing, photography and birdwatching, you’ll love this area as … 'Started from the bottom, now we’re here,' said Lauren Katz, quoting the musician Drake. Make sure to watch where you step especially if you go down different sides of the rock, to help keep you and your family safe. Check the stargazing calendar for events. As an Amazon Associate, Lone Star Travel Guide earns from qualifying purchases. However, no matter when you visit, we recommend arriving as early as possible–once the park is full for the day, the park rangers will cut off access, and you may miss your chance to visit. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting (and hiking) Texas’ Enchanted Rock, from what to expect to what it exactly it is in the first place! Visitors have been coming to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for centuries and it remains one of the most popular things to do in Fredericksburg. It offers park camping, picnicking, 8.4 miles of hiking trails, a nature trail, interpretive exhibits, rock climbing, watchable wildlife and a park store. This short and sweet trail will allow you to get glimpses of many of the plants that grow in the diverse area of Enchanted Rock. Enchanted Rock is a perfect destination for rock climbers, hikers, and even for those that simply want to sit back and enjoy the scenery on top of a beautiful piece of pink granite. One of the longest hikes in the park, the loop trail will take you around the perimeter of the park allowing you to trek through many ecosystems and landscapes. ), 31 Best Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX, Hiking in San Antonio: 13 Trails In + Near San Antonio. At Enchanted Rock State Natural Area camping is a little different than some of the other parks I’ve written about. It is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers alike. Climb atop the ancient dome at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, just 20 miles north of Fredericksburg. Katz visited Enchanted Rock from New Braunfels with her friend Dejai Jones. As you continue to the top though, it becomes steeper and in multiple places slicker. For aggressive rock climbers, consider participating in … Travel 17 miles north to Enchanted Rock. An important consideration when planning a trip is just how popular Enchanted Rock is all throughout the year. Colorado Bend State Park Guide: Waterfalls, Caves + More. ~I'm linking up with Budget Travelers Sandbox, R We … If you are wanting to experience primitive camping within Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, then Moss Lake is the trail for you. It was for sure fun! The short, stunning summit trail in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the most popular hikes in Texas. Good Times All Around. Just North of Fredericksburg, TX offers great views and fun bouldering. Just like the name, the Enchanted Rock Area allows you to climb the ancient and historical pink granite area for amazing Hill Country views. Bring your binoculars and grab a bird checklist from the park headquarters. What to bring: There is no shade on the massive dome, so bring sunscreen. This is the waiting line to get inside the park (don’t cut). Taking your time and pacing yourself will allow you to get to the top and enjoy the surrounding scenery without being too exhausted. However, I completely forgot about the struggle once I reached the summit. I hope to add more information for this trip report soon. Staff photo by Daniel Clifton. Taking the time to plan accordingly by bringing plenty of water as well as choosing a time of day that the temperatures are lower is an important step to take. Hike to Enchanted Rock. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is home to the one of the largest batholiths in the United States. There are several outfitters and rock-climbing guide services listed on the website. What to do in enchanted rock: Hiking: While Enchanted Rock is a relatively small park, there are still over ten miles of hiking trails to explore. Of my favorite Things to Do in Fredericksburg, and some believe it has spiritual significance Delightful Things Do! 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