Enchanted Rock [Suggest Edits]

Description

The massive granite dome known as Enchanted Rock is perhaps the premier feature in Texas Hill Country. It is the largest pink granite monadnock in the USA, towering about 425 feet high above the park to a height of 1,825 feet. The "Enchanted" part of it's name comes from spiritual powers that the Tonkawa, Apache, and Comanche tribes believed the rock possessed. Enchanted Rock is surrounded by a network of trails that offer a wide variety of views of the beautiful dome, but the best way to appreciate Enchanted Rock is to climb to the top! The climb is a lot of fun and not technical, and the summit views go on forever.

Short Hike: Enchanted Rock is the highlight of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 95 miles west of Austin, 18 miles north of Fredericksburg, and 24 miles south of Llano, Texas. A 0.6 mile trail leads from the main parking area to the summit, climbing about 400 feet as it goes. The trail is not technical, but is strenuous compared to most hikes nearby. Numerous other trails offer great views of Enchanted Rock without climbing it.

Family Friendly: Kids will love climbing this huge dome and playing on the rocks and boulders en route.

Gem Type: Geologic Feature