Visitors Can View the Heavens at the Enchanted Rock Dome Even though 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. 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 climb 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 two Texas Parks and Wildlife Department properties that are certified “Gold Tier” Dark Sky Parks.
This designation means that Enchanted Rock complies with the International Dark Sky Association requirements, which not only conserves energy for the park, but also guarantees visitors will have an undistracted view of the night sky. It helps the area cut down on light pollution, and promotes lowimpact ecotourism as one of the surrounding area’s most sought destinations. Along with protecting the park from light pollution, Enchanted Rock also asks visitors to protect the property from unintentional pet-inflicted damage.
In the park, 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.
About the Rock: • 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 throughout the park. Due to a critical water shortage, the restrooms may also be closed but portable toilets will be made available.
Enchanted Rock attracts thousands of hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts each year. Standard-Radio Post file photo
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Fall&Winter2021
