About
Enchanted Rock State National Area is a quick drive from Fredericksburg, TX, and certainly worth the trip for those who want to explore the outdoors.
The park is noted by its huge pink granite dome and incredible nature landscape.
This dome-shaped hill is an impressive sight and not just from the base but once you reach the top as well. The views of the surrounding valleys and terrain are majestic. It’s worth the moderately difficult hike to get there.
For most people, a visit here is all about the hiking. There are 11 miles worth of hikes available to explore from beginner to advanced skill levels. The trails are open throughout the day (you can sometimes get there early enough to watch the sunrise), and they close about 30 minutes after the sun sets.
One thing I discovered when visiting on a rainy day is that you’ll want to avoid the Summit Trail. It’s often closed because the path is unstable, and that makes for a very messy experience.
Or, if you’re more of an adventurer and prefer to traverse and rappel, you can even go rock climbing here.
I recommend checking in with park headquarters for access, route maps, and all of the climbing rules you need to follow. This is a challenging experience, and you’re rather on your own, so it’s best left to those who have more experience.
And while many people only come here to hike, there's truly so much more. You can go geocaching throughout the park, picnicking, do lots of birding (you’ll see groups of people sitting and waiting for unique species to come into view), and you can even shop.
There’s actually a small store located on the park grounds that provide the basics, including firewood, in case you forget to bring it for your campsite s’more roast.
Fun Facts
If you believe in the otherworldly powers, this may be the place for you! Many locals believe the location of Enchanted Rock to have mystical powers (though some may call it haunted as well).
With a rich Native American history and over 400 archeological sites in the park, there are a lot of legends in the area about who (or what) lives on the mountain and in the surrounding forested area.
So if you have the time, I recommend doing a guided tour; that’s the perfect way to experience it all up close and learn some of that local lore.
Getting There
Enchanted Rock State National Area is about 25 to 30 minutes from Fredericksburg. It’s also a super easy trip right down Ranch Road 965. The destination will be right on the left.
Cost
- $8 per person for the day for those 13 years and older
- Kids 12 and under are free
You can also use a Texas State Parks Pass, which is $70 for the year.
Local Tips
- Be sure to check out the guided summit trail hikes when available (these are available throughout the spring and summer months.)
- For those planning to visit, especially on a warm, comfortable day, it’s best to get reservations since the park can fill up quickly.
- Some of the park is not accessible or wheelchair friendly. There are some walk-in campsites available, but visitors still have to go over a small footbridge to get there.
- Be careful walking throughout the area. The ground is rough and uneven throughout, making pushing a stroller, wheelchair, or other device hard to do.
- Visit Llano, which is about 14 miles away, for a few small restaurants and shops.
- If you plan to bring your dog along, be careful about the restrictions. You can only bring them into day-use picnic areas, the campgrounds, and along the Loop Trail.