View the heavens at Enchanted Rock

While the majestic, pink granite dome brings visitors to the Enchanted Rock State National Area, it’s the site’s expansive views and native wildlife that keep visitors coming back for more.

04/26/2023 01:35 PM (update 07/21/2023 10:59 AM)

Enchanted Rock attracts thousands of hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts each year. — Standard-Radio Post/Reese Griffin

The natural attraction towers 1,825 feet in elevation and attracts hundreds of thousands of hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts each year.

Enchanted Rock SNA offers opportunities to not only hike, but to rock climb, boulder and stargaze.

It is one of the best places in the area to see the night sky in its clearest state, as Enchanted Rock is one of only a few Texas Parks and Wildlife Department properties that are certified “Gold Tier” Dark Sky Parks.

This designation means Enchanted Rock complies with the International Dark Sky Association requirements, which conserves energy for the natural area, and guarantees visitors will have an undistracted view of the night sky. It helps the area cut down on light pollution, and promotes low-impact ecotourism as one of the surrounding area’s most sought destinations.

Along with protecting the natural area from light pollution, Enchanted Rock also asks visitors to protect the property from unintentional pet-inflicted damage.

In the natural area, pets are only allowed in the designated day-use picnic areas, the campgrounds and on the Loop Trail. Pets are not allowed on any other trail.

Visitors can check the event page for special hikes and events at https://tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks/enchantedrock/ park_events.

Those interested in technical rock climbing or bouldering can find more information online at https://tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks/enchantedrock/ more-info/rock-climb.

Enchanted Rock’s peak season ranges from September through May, though day-use entrance permits may sell out at any time of year. On weekends and holidays a reservation for day-use or camping is required to visit. Make reservations at TexasStateParks. ReserveAmerica.com.

Flashing signs on approaching roads will alert visitors that a reservation is required to enter the natural area. One sign is located north of Fredericksburg on Ranch Road 965, the other are on Texas 16 near the RR 965 intersection.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located at 16710 RR 965, 18 miles north of Fredericksburg. Information is available at (830) 6853636 or by visiting https:// tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ enchanted-rock.

ROCK FACTS

The Rock sits at just 1,825 feet. Hikers can be challenged due to the steep incline of Enchanted Rock.
The main campground has restroom facilities, but there are more remote sites scattered along the trails. Due to a critical water shortage, the restrooms may also be closed but portable toilets will be made available.
Even though drinking water is available for purchase, visitors are highly encouraged to bring their own water and enough for the visit.
Trails, varying in length and difficulty can be found in the natural area. The Loop Trail winds around the natural area a lengthy 4.5 miles, while the trek to the top of the Rock is only a threequarter mile climb.