Enchanted rock is one of the best state parks I have been to in Texas. The terrain makes it truly unique and is an oasis of elevation gain for a state that is known as being flat. The large scale drop-offs and sheer granite walls make this site a great destination for rock climbers and hiking enthusiast.

Enchanted rock is located 19 miles north of Fredericksburg Texas - from Fredericksburg, turn right off of main street (highway 290) to Highway 965. The park entrance is clearly marked on the left hand side of the road.

The park is very busy on the weekends, especially in the spring and summer when the weather is nice. Parking is limited so it is best to arrive well before 10 am to get into the park.

The busiest hiking trail is up the face of the largest hill (along summit trail). On a busy day, people look like marching ants huffing their way to the top. It is very enjoyable to explore other trails around the perimeter of the hills. Hiking on the west is much more sparse and enjoyable and the rock formations are great. The perimeter trail (loop trail) around the rocks is around 4 miles long.

It is amazing to see nature find a way to grow in this harsh environment. Trees, shrubs, grass, and cactus sprout up from any crevice in the pink granite.

Enchanted rock is a granite exfoliation dome, where a long process of erosion reveals stone beneath. In this case, a very large mass of stone.

Make sure to take plenty of water on your trip around the "Rock". Water is available around the main camping sites and visitor center on the south, but none is available north of this area. Don't forget water for your dog if they come along.

The Texas Park and Wildlife Enchanted Rock page is informative and a good place to start to set up camping reservations.