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. Check the stargazing calendar for events. Bring your telescope and attend a Rock Star Party led by the Hill Country Astronomers. Enchanted Rock has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. Stargazing: Scale the dome at sundown for a stunning view of the Milky Way. Bring your binoculars and grab a bird checklist from the park headquarters. For aggressive rock climbers, consider participating in Granite Gripper, an annual climbing competition each fall.īird-watching: Bird enthusiasts can observe more than 20 species of birds, including roadrunners and woodpeckers. There are several outfitters and rock-climbing guide services listed on the website. Rock climbing: Enchanted Rock has hundreds of routes that fit every skill level of rock-climbing enthusiasts. Photo by JoAnna Kopp Things to do besides hiking the dome: Katz visited Enchanted Rock from New Braunfels with her friend Dejai Jones. 'Started from the bottom, now we’re here,' said Lauren Katz, quoting the musician Drake. Just make sure to keep your pet on a leash! However, pets are still allowed in designated day-use and camping areas as well as on the Loop Trail. New regulations have been put in place to protect the vernal pools and other sensitive habitats at the top of the dome. Keep in mind that pets are no longer allowed to hike along the Summit Trail. I relaxed in my solitude, taking in the pure, unadulterated nature around me. I felt so small, and I swear I felt some of the magic of which ancient Indian tribes swore. Any people within eyesight were mere ants compared to the gargantuan views. As congested as the park seemed at my arrival, there were no crowds on the dome. I could see for miles from the top of the dome. The view from the peak of Enchanted Rock is a sight to behold. However, I completely forgot about the struggle once I reached the summit. I could feel it in my calves, thighs and glutes the whole way up (and a few days after). Photo by JoAnna KoppĬonquering the sharp incline of the Summit Trail was a workout, to say the least. Or, just go straight to the top! Take the Summit Trail, where you’ll climb a steep 425 feet in 0.6 miles.Ĭhallenge yourself and climb 425 feet in 0.6 miles. It’s an easy walk, so I recommend it if you have the time. The Loop Trail is four miles long and takes you around the perimeter of the dome. Pick up a park map when you’re inside the park headquarters. Once you get past the entrance, park rangers will point you to the headquarters and parking spots. Visit the park on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid any extra wait time. Depending on how busy the park is, you could wait as long as 30 minutes in line - it’s worth it, I promise. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is popular almost year-round, so there will always be a wait on the weekends or holidays. This is the waiting line to get inside the park (don’t cut). Once you get to the entrance, you may see a line of cars on the side of RR 965 facing west. The entrance to Enchanted Rock is located at 16710 RR 965 north of Fredericksburg. Native Americans believed the pink granite dome had magical and spiritual powers. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is home to the one of the largest batholiths in the United States.
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