Enchanted Rock: The Mystical Bedrock of Texas

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Originally written for RootsRated

A mere 90 minutes from Austin, Enchanted Rock is one of the best outdoor playgrounds in Central Texas and a local favorite for many Austinites. It offers great camping, plenty of trails suitable for anyone—from children and the elderly to hardcore hikers and trail runners—and about 50 different climbs for avid rock climbers.

Summiting Turkey Peak.
Summiting Turkey Peak.

David

Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite dome that rises up from the green hills midway between Fredericksburg and Llano, the two major gateways (southern and northern) to more rugged country. I enjoy making a big Enchanted Rock loop weekend trip, driving out through Fredericksburg early in the morning, stopping for a hearty breakfast at one of the many German eateries, such as Rathskeller (try the duck hash). Then make it to the park, set up the tent, and beat the crowds to the summit. Spend the night under the stars, have a morning on the trails, and then drive up to Llano for world-class BBQ at Cooper’s . Then try to make it home through the food coma.

Enchanted Rock is popular for many reasons, and sometimes the crowds are proof of that. If you don’t get out there early enough, expect to find long lines of cars out on the highway waiting to get in. The lot has capacity limitations, so get there early, especially on summer weekends.

Below is an overview of the main trails and sites. It's definitely not an exhaustive list, as there are many little side trails not indicated on the park map, but this will get you started.

Vernal Pools harbor fragile life in little craters atop Enchanted Rock.
Vernal Pools harbor fragile life in little craters atop Enchanted Rock.

satanoid via Flickr

1. Visitor’s Center – First, too many people overlook the visitor’s centers at parks. I think it’s important to know the natural and human history of the ground your standing on, or the massive batholith you’re about to climb. Besides picking up your trail map, the displays here are really good at giving you a picture of just how old and special Enchanted Rock really is. The entire state (and surrounding states), which previously existed as a sea bed, formed around this ancient rock over millions of years. You’ll also learn about the rock’s fragile vernal pools and endemic biology, all of which trust you to tread carefully. And there's plenty of interesting Native American folklore as well, which stretches as far back as 11,000 years. So taking the time to learn about all of it will give you even more appreciation for your experience here.

2. Summit Trail – The park’s main trail is a steep and solid uphill for a good 30 minutes, but depending on your condition, this is a relatively simple uphill jaunt. If you dare, this makes an absolutely perfect calf-burner trail run. Whether going slow or fast, the view from the top is one of the most rewarding in Texas.

Crowds have no problem going downhill.
Crowds have no problem going downhill.

satanoid

3. Loop Trail – Just as its name implies, this is a nice, 4-mile, easy route around the whole park, perfect for trail running. A little flat and boring for those who prefer sturdier hiking, but going the whole length can offer some random surprises. Because not as many people do the whole loop, the quieter, more isolated back corners can hold some amazing wildlife encounters.

4. Echo Canyon Trail – This is a cooler spot for pleasant midday, mid-summer hikes when you find yourself not able to get into the park until noon. A stream coursing most of its length, little watering holes, and lots of vegetation (in places) make this one a personal favorite.


satanoid via Flickr

5. Turkey Peak – Though not as heavily visited by most guests, Turkey Peak offers a unique view of the area. There are a few ways to get to the top of Turkey Peak, including difficult rappelling-only routes for real climbers. This peak is especially nice around sunset.

It's also very possible to create your own route and combine a bit of everything by making the summit hike, then wandering down the southern slope down to Echo Canyon. Follow Echo Canyon around the wooded back side of the main rock, around to Turkey Pass trail, and climb to the top of Turkey Peak. Hike back toward the parking lot with a stop at the Frog Pond, for a great end-of-day meditation.

Of course, more trails and rocky peaks surround Enchanted Rock. But I’ve left some out for you to discover on your own. Enjoy!

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Ed Schipul

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