This was something to see. I wish I had had hiking boots with me. It was a slick day due to previous rain. Also, when you drive up and have to park and go in and then pull out and repark .. it's kind of a hassle - silly system. But the nature there is fabulous - and the rock is an experience. Takes longer than one would think.
We attended a ranger lead walking tour up the rock. Our guide was very enthusiastic and helped us better understand this unique and fragile environment. In addition, the locals we met on the tour were very friendly. We also enjoyed a hike on the back trails where significantly fewer people go. This is a popular park on a nice weekend day, as the line of cars to enter the park had become long by the time we were departing around lunch time.
A must see if in the area. Nice facilities. Food truck on site. Recommend comfortable shoes and backpack!
This was our second visit in 22 years. My recollection from the previous visit was a somewhat strenuous climb to the top so I was a bit hesitant to visit again. This time we took the loop trail which goes around the base of the big rock. This was a beautiful walk, not only nice scenery and plants, but it was not difficult at all. We did not have enough time to do the whole trail which is about 4 miles, but instead we took a short cut that required a bit of scrambling to get towards the top of the rock. Not quite to the top but high enough to enjoy some nice views. Got lost a bit trying to find the trail to return to the bottom, but we looked for the trail markers and eventually found the better trail down.I think that most people come to this park and climb to the top of the rock, did not see many people on the loop trial even though the parking lot was full.The entrance fee is a bit high at $7 per person per day so it is best to go early and take your time. There are picnic areas.We also noticed there are some primitive campsites along the trail loop. This is not a difficult walk so it may be fun to camp there even though you have to carry your camping gear to the site.We enjoyed our 2 hour walk and would return to the park. We would try to avoid weekends and spring break and perhaps summer as well as this is a very popular place and it can get crowded.
Wear good solid walking shoes, pack some water, and get ready for some great photo opportunities! If you own a walking stick, take it. My 40-something year old knees wished I'd had one when scaling the rock. Make sure you have a hat and sun protection as there aren't many shaded areas as you climb. We went on a sunny, 65 degree day and we were HOT!! Absolutely beautiful park and the drive out from Fredricksburg is scenic.
I brought my son and toddler daughter and they both really enjoyed themselves. The toddler was a little to young to tackle the summit but it was perfect for my school aged son.
Excellent way to get out and enjoy the hill country of Texas. The park is well maintained and the scenery is beautiful. Pack a lunch and plan a day because you will not want to leave any time soon.
1st we did the Willow Loop - close to enchanted rock. Then to Enchanted Rock. Go here, do this! We are in our mid and late 40's. We had no issues. We had to stop for a breather - but that gave us more time for photo-opps. Climb to the top and find the metal plate (see pics). Be sure to play with the fun camera angles. We did some awesome fake rock climbing photos. It was oddly cold and windy when we went. Take a bottle of water. Stop, take a deep breath and JUST BE! Look at all the plants, stones and surrounding beauty. This was truly a highlight and a must do again and again. This was recommended to me on facebook from a former Texas resident and friend as a must do, if in the area! I am super thankful we did this!
We had a great time climbing to the top of the rocks and walking the paths! I grew up in the foothills of Colorado and this place reminded me of that area. It is unique to Texas. It can get busy it the park, so you might want to call first if it is busy travel season.
This is an spectacular place with lots of views and you cab enjoy in an easy walk. There is a cave just overpass the top and you can get in those, kids were delighted and had lot of fun, it need some good shape to move around and it worths the effort.If you are visiting during a weekend it could be crowded, I suggest to arrive early morning before 9 and you can enjoy the place, otherwise come later to avoid the long wait on car line outside the park.