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View the Heavens at Enchanted Rock
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.
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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.
• Even though drinking water is available for purchase, visitors are highly encouraged to being their own water and enough for the visit. • Trails, varying in length and slope can be found in the park.
The Loop Trail winds around the park a lengthy 4.5 miles, while the jaunt to the top of the Rock is only a half mile climb.
Visitors can check the event page for special hikes and events at https://tpwd.texas.gov/stateparks/enchanted-rock/park_ events.
Those interested in technical rock climbing will need to check in at the park headquarters to read all climbing rules and sign all of the required climbing waiver.
The park’s peak season ranges from September through May, though the park might reach full capacity at any time of year.
When the parking lots are full, the park will declare full capacity and close for at least three hours. Park closures are more likely during holidays.
Flashing signs on approaching roads will alert visitors when the park has closed. One sign is located north of Fredericksburg on Ranch Road 965, the other is on Texas 16 North near the Ranch Road 965 intersection.
The park’s Facebook page — https://www.facebook.com/ enchantedrock/ — will also update visitors on the status of the park.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located at 16710 Ranch Road 965, 18 miles north of Fredericksburg.
More information is available by calling (830) 685-3636 or by visiting the park’s website at https://tpwd.texas.gov/stateparks/enchanted-rock.
