Visiting Enchanted Rock in Texas
The Texas Hill Country is famous for beautiful, green rolling hills. One of the hidden treasures found there is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area which is part of the Texas State Parks.
Enchanted Rock is a large dome that jets up to 425 feet in a short 0.6 mile hike. It was named be Indians from the Tonkawa tribe who believed ghosts enchanted this rock and burned fires at the top. Making the hike up the main Summit Trail is not an easy feat for those who are not used to hiking, especially since the Texas sun unabashedly beats down on you on your journey up. It is worth all of the effort though when you get to the top and look down and see miles and miles of the beautiful rolling hills of Texas. As busy as it is you can set out along the top and find your own area to appreciate this spectacular view. Your way back down the rock isn’t much easier than your ascent. It is very steep and you can often hear many people wondering how they are going to get back down.
Along with the Summit Trail there are quite a few other trails you can hike along. Many of them are less busy then the main trail and offer various views of the dome from different vantage points. There are also a few places for rock climbing and camping. There are many walk-in sites that are only about 25-100 yards from parking with some facilities available and a few primitive campsites.
This area of Texas is a great place for family camping and offers many other things to do. The town of Fredericksburg is located nearby and has many small shops and authentic German food. You can also visit Johnson City which is only a short drive away. Here you can tour the ranch of former President Lyndon B. Johnson. The site also features tours of the Texas White House. If you are looking for some great Texas BBQ just check out Cooper’s in Llano. Austin, Texas is only about 60 miles away too if you want to hear some great live music and see the Texas State Capitol.
