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    Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    4.4 (342 reviews)
    Open 6:30 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

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    Melissa M.

    Beginner and family friendly. If you want to start dabbling in hiking, this state park is for you! It is a small park with plenty of simple trails. The summit is the best trail because it gets you to the highest point of the park that overlooks everything! It's such an accomplishment with a grand prize at at end. Once you finish that take time to walk one of the many trails this park has to offer. If you are seasoned at hiking this isn't difficult at all and actually wasn't as great. But if you have never hiked before this will be a great challenge. We did see some areas there do rock climbing, however the park ranger said no. We did see two sets of rock climbers. I wonder why the ranger told us no. We bright our rock climbing sores, but respected her statement and didn't climb. I don't think I need to come back here again. It was too simple for our experience.

    Novalina N.

    The scenery here is always stunning. I usually love hiking this trail, but not so much on my last visit. It was a quieter day with dark clouds overhead, and it felt like it could start raining any minute. I've always been able to find my way back before, but with fewer people around, we kept taking wrong turns. It's surprisingly disorienting up there since there are no signs to help guide you back. I was very concerned my friend and I wouldn't make it back before the rain started, but thankfully we did. Unfortunately, the lack of signage seems to be a common issue in TX state parks.

    Chithra V.

    Visited Enchanted Rock State Park last Sunday and hiked the Summit Trail. such a fun and scenic experience! The trail is just 0.8 miles, but don't let the short distance fool you! it's steep and definitely gets your heart rate up. If you work out regularly, it's manageable, but for first-timers or those not used to incline hikes, it might feel a bit challenging. That said, the views from the top are so worth it. You get a full 360° view of Fredericksburg, and the landscape is stunning, colorful wildflowers, cacti along the path, and the beautiful pinkish granite all around make it feel really special. Would definitely recommend this trail if you're up for a short, steep climb with big payoff views.

    Lots of cacti
    Marla W.

    We did both hikes for a total of just over 6 miles. Did the long one 1st & it was a nice easy beautiful walk- the only part that was a tad sketchy & narrow as well a bit treacherous- this was towards the very end just prior to approaching the full bathroom- We saved the best for last & climbed the summit just during sunset. Highly recommend

    Brooke P.

    Wow! What a fun adventure for a cool fall morning. This steep climb up a granite rock looks daunting but if you take your time (and your water) you'll do just fine and get to enjoy some amazing views at the top. Just about 1.6 miles round trip from the parking lot and it was busy on a Sunday morning. Be sure to reserve a spot online. Even in November, it was getting warm by the time we were finishing, so start early!

    Erika N.

    There aren't enough words to do this location any justice. The Enchanted Rock State Park is a well-known gem in central Texas. When you visit, especially late at night during the holidays, it is not hard to see why. A plethora of stars are visible late at night and I wish my camera had the capacity to take better photos of all the stars that I saw with my own eyes. The rock itself isn't too hard to climb up. I couldn't make it all the way up because of my hip issues, but the views are spectacular. Hopefully my photos highlight just a few of many locations for great photography. Just make sure you wear the right shoes because the terrain has rocks of various sizes. Safety comes first. There are other areas around the rock that you can explore as well if you're not in the mood for a rigorous hike. And during the holidays, I believe you can even take a hike with Santa Claus. !

    Skye P.

    Beautiful view, this hike was pretty easy to locate and their was plenty of parking. The Hike itself was not too bad and the views at the top were stunning.

    On top of Enchanted Rock
    Laura A.

    Great experience. We booked in advance, my hubby is a veteran and when we got there they refunded the money and we didn't even ask! So kind. We went in the afternoon, it was really hot but we made it to the top! Definitely recommend making the climb

    Joan R.

    My son and I went here and had a blast. We hiked to the summit and to the frog pond. I thought the trails were well-marked. The restroom was closed but they had porta-potties which were fine. Be sure to make a reservation if you go on a weekend and wear sunscreen, as there is no shade on the summit trail.

    Frog pond  5/2024
    Sabrina S.

    Highly recommend! Located about 20 min north of Fredericksburg Make sure to wear good hiking shoes with traction and grip, bring lots of water, and a hat for coverage would be good too! Upon entrance, you'll hit the range/visitor station. There you'll find water to purchase, a gift shop, restrooms, maps, and rangers to help answer any questions or provide guidance. Super friendly ranger, she helped guide and direct us to the east loop trail and summit. Take the east loop trail for bird sightings and beautiful wildflowers. You are literally immersed in chest high coreopsis amongst other flowers. So pretty. We did not finish the trail completely, but turned around, back tracked over to frog pond, and made a turn, so that we eventually hit summit trail. After all, summit trail is what we came here for. Can't go home, until, you've hit the summit. Per the ranger, enchanted rock is STEEP, "it's like climbing 40 flights of stairs." It was definitely steep, we took a few breaks, and made it. Once at the top, the views are breathtaking, all of hill country was exposed. The area at the top was quite large to roam and explore. Beautiful small ponds have formed with plenty of plant life finding its habitat in cracks between the rocks. Fortunately we had an overcast day, but we freaked out a little when it started to rain. Enchanted rock is super slick and slippery when wet. Trying to find our way back down wasn't easy. Posted signage would be nice for guidance! Just sayin But, we came across a local, who guided us to another route down, that wasn't as steep as the original way up. Definitely take your time going down, especially when wet. Took a different trail back to parking, where we came across a cool gazebo (perfect for picnics), and stepping stones across a small river. Enchanted rock is worth the drive and plan accordingly for weather. Freee entrance with military ID.

    Pano on the interpretive loop trail - this trail is v short, and has lots of little signs about plants and wildlife :)
    Stephanie W.

    Enchanted rock is SO stunning. I've lived in Texas my whole life and just never made it out there and until recently. My goodness did it remind me how beautiful this state is!! There are several trails, including a decently flat one that is very long, but affords people the option to hike part of it and then turn around or find another trail to get back. That's the loop trail - it is 4ish miles and wraps around the whole park, and is open after sundown for stargazers. When I came, I wanted to hike the summit trail which is considered "challenging," but my mother was with me and she has knee pain so I knew that steep climb would not work for her. Instead, I got her a map and she walked a chunk of the loop trail, which ended for her at the scenic view trail which is very short, but leads to a nice lookout over the park (MUCH less challenging to get to than the summit trail). She did that hike, while I went for the summit. Will note that people online mention the summit trail takes about 45 min; I went on a cool day in Jan and was able to get up to the peak in about 20 min. It was VERY windy up there; by the time I reached the top I felt very warm/almost hot despite the fact that it was like 50F with windchill so just be aware. The top of the rock at the end of the trail has STUNNING views over the whole hill country and the neighboring rock formations, really it's gorgeous! Just note it is VERY steep to get up there and come down, so wear decent tennis shoes or hiking boots (I work hiking boots, and felt very secure). Also note if you have any allergies whatsoever you'll need tissues; the wind was making my nose run even though I wasn't congested that day. And last note - there is camping available here. Both for campground usage and just day passes, you really need a reservation because it sells out any time the weather is decent which is fairly often! You can make your res online on the Texas state parks website, and it costs $8 per person. The $ goes toward preservation of the land and nature area and be aware they do have some shower areas near the camgrounds +- indoor restrooms but the day we came these were literally just locked. They had portapotties just outside which we used; they were actually decently clean (clean as portapotties get anyway). They had sanitizer and a little water faucet there too so you can rinse/cleanse your hands. And there was plenty of parking available near the trails! Probably because there is a cap on the # of folks that can enter the park at one time -- again make a reservation for peace of mind cause if you just go and they're full, they have to turn you away. 10/10 rec a visit to enchanted rock, it's a chill hike in my opinion and the area is just beautiful!!

    Enchanted rock hike
    Cristina B.

    I can't really put into words how at peace I felt here, held by the very potent and deeply felt energy here. It makes perfect sense why this place is called "enchanted rock" enchanting is exactly what it is. The state park has so much to offer overall. A reservation is required and it is either for a day pass or there is also a camping overnight option, which is awesome! They do offer military discount fyi! My hubby and I came here to hike just for the day! We did the summit trail which is a short hike with moderate difficulty! What I love about hiking is that regardless of your hiking experience, you can go at your own pace! There is absolutely no rush! There is a semi steep incline for the summit trail and it was very windy yesterday when we went but worth it for me! The views at the top are literally breathtaking! There are also vernal pools throughout the summit that hold in rain water! Super cool sight on the hike! Another trail here is "echo mountain" and we learned why it's called that as well after hearing a loud (echo) of a cow "moo" way in the distance across the summit (lol). The weather was perfect this time of year (Early Feb) sun was out but the air was crisp! I saw signs in the restroom that said it gets dangerously hot during summer! FYI! Pets are allowed throughout the park and in camping areas (leashed) but not on the trail. FYI Highly highly recommend! Can't wait to return and camp here and try doing another trail!

    Maria W.

    I've been here twice. Once in community college with San Jacinto South campus science club and another time with the siblings as well as Pocky. This park is beautiful no matter what angle you look at it from. It's breathtaking too! It can get very crowded especially in the summer or spring. At which, both seasons I visited. Once I attempted to visit in the summer and without reservation, I was turned away and had to go to another nearby SP. The highlight of this state park is the giant granite dome that you can hike to the top. I wouldn't bring trekking poles for this one, but I will say please make sure you stretch your legs before you start the hike because if not you'll be experiencing pain later. Yes, I accidentally made this mistake once and "paid" for it later. After hiking and crying to get to the top, I had finally made it and whew, I was glad I did. The view on top outlooks the general area and is covered in vast trees. The fun part was hiking down since it isn't as bad as the hike up. The dome isn't the only thing about the park, but the most frequent thing that most visitors check out. Be sure to check out some of the caves and other trails. During my first visit, a boy scout wanted me to be apart of their "buddy system" and we explored this cave that is behind the dome. The cave was tight, slippery, and wet, but it was a lot of exhilarating fun!! Once inside the cave, there aren't any hidden crystals or anything, just more rocks. I think you can hike at night with a park ranger and a group. I seen some people do it since I was leaving the dome by night. I was surprised, but it helps to have a headlight. The restrooms at the parking lot are clean and flush on a dime. Enchanted Rock is one of the most popular state park. Please make sure you secure reservations at all times. Cell signal is sparse. There's plenty of parking.

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    Page 1 of 9

    Ask the Community - Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    Are there any nice picnic areas?

    Yes, plenty. Closest to entry are near the restrooms and where the trails start.

    Cell phone reception?

    On and off throughout the park for AT&T

    How long do people usually stay here for?

    Bring a picnic lunch and plan to stay for most of the day. Or just bring a water bottle, hike a couple of hours and then head over to Fred for some great food and wine. It's really beautiful and there are several hiking paths. The climb to the top… Read more

    Is the route to the summit outlined, with signs, for first-time visitors?

    There is a map at the base and a few arrows to show the direction to the summit. There isn't a defined trail all the way up but it is not too strenuous

    Are you allowed to fish there?

    I don't think it is explicitly prohibited, but it would not be a great place to do so. Other than vernal pools and some shallow streams like Sandy Creek that aren't going to hold more than some small minnow-like fish, the only body of water is Moss… Read more

    I want to take my wife on the hike for our honeymoon in July, but she will 24 weeks pregnant. Is the hike too intense?

    Yes, it is quite steep, especially coming down. We saw a boy skid and scrape his leg. Be careful.

    View All 8 Questions

    Review Highlights - Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    Keep in mind that the backcountry is a bit remote and hot, so make sure you're up for the challenge.

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    I think I finally got my new hiking spot here in San Antonio/Boerne! Such a nice spot to get some…read morefresh air and exercise while being out in the outdoors! Everything is super maintained than most parks I've been before! I usually go with my MIL, my baby girl and our dogs to get them some exercise as well and try to do 1-2 miles each time we are here. Depending on what trails you walk/hike on, theres some with shade and some that you will hit up the blazing sun, but with fall upon it hasn't been horrible! Everyone who hikes here are really respectful with the trails/area which is such a pleasant thing as there's usually not a lot of people who do that now a days. Will of course be returning weekly to get our steps in and vitamin D!

    This was actually a great place to come visit with the family on spring break! The weather was…read moreperfect, wasn't overcrowded, plenty of places to sit and enjoy fresh air. Loved they had a dog park and a playground you can take your kids to. There are places you can even go fishing if you want or just sit by the water to relax. Loved how there were plenty of signs around too talking about the animals and plants common there. Good information about the park too and didn't feel I would get lost either (good flat paths you can take). I barely saw any trash flying around either and could tell they keep this park well kept. I absolutely plan to come back here in the future when I have time. Definitely worth the visit!

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    Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - parks - Updated July 2026

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