One of the biggest draws to the Hill Country is the natural beauty. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (ERSNA) is a towering example of this. The area, run by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), is one of the most popular parks in the state. Situated 18 miles north of Fredericksburg, it draws an average of 300,000 visitors each year.
Enchanted Rock is the umbrella term for the surrounding trails and camping sites at the foot of the eponymous rock. The pink granite batholith reaches an elevation of 1,825 feet. The most popular of the area’s hiking trails, summit trail challenges hikers with steep inclines. Including summit, hikers can enjoy the nearly 11 miles of hiking trails, which range in difficulty. Rock climbers can try their hand at conquering the rock, after notifying the park office. Enchanted Rock is one of the TPWD International Dark Sky Sanctuaries, making it ideal for stargazing.
The natural area announced last year that it will nearly triple in size after acquiring two adjacent land parcels. ERSNA added 630+ acres to the park’s south and purchased a 3,000-acre ranch on the park’s north side. Both promise more future hiking trails and camping opportunities.
Rock climbers also use the park to practice their skills. (Check with the headquarters for details.) For nature lovers, the park contains more than 500 species of plants, including the light blue basin bellflower found in only three Texas counties.
Friends of Enchanted Rock raises funds to restore trails. Read more or donate to them at friendsofenchantedrock.com.
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