Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock is a huge, pink granite exfoliation dome, that rises 425 feet above ground, 1825 feet above sea level, and covers 640 acres. It is one of the largest batholiths (underground rock formation uncovered by erosion) in the United States.

Enchanted Rock

Tonkawa Indians believed ghost fires flickered at the top, and they heard weird creaking and groaning, which geologists now say resulted from the rock's heating by day and contracting in the cool night. A conquistador captured by the Tonkawa described how he escaped by losing himself in the rock area, giving rise to an Indian legend of a "pale man swallowed by a rock and reborn as one of their own." The Indians believed he wove enchantments on the area

Enchanted Rock

The park is now a National Natural Landmark and part of the state park system, one of the most popular sites in Texas for several reasons - the scenery is unusual, the summit is easily reached and has fine views over the countryside, different habitats harbour varied wildflowers, cacti and other plants, and there are good hiking trails and rock climbing routes.

Enchanted Rock

Near the park entrance there is a 46 site campground, for tents/cars only. Two trails start nearby and almost everyone who visits tries one of them: Summit Trail - an easy, fairly direct route to the top of the highest rock (half a mile, elevation gain 425 feet).
Loop Trail - a circular 4 mile path that passes around most of the different granite peaks.

Enchanted Rock

On cool nights, as the rock contracts due the the dropping temperature, eerie, creaking noises can be heard. These noises coupled with the majestic visual impact of this vast exposed mass of pink granite make it easy to imagine the source of the tales and legends surrounding this unique area.

Enchanted Rock

The first well-documented explorations of this area did not begin until 1723 when the Spanish intensified their efforts to colonize Texas. During the mid-1700s, the Spaniards made several trips to the north and northwest of San Antonio, establishing a mission and presidio on the San Saba River and carrying out limited mining on Honey Creek near the Llano River.

Visitors can enjoy primitive backpacking, camping, hiking, technical and rock climbing, picnicking, geological study, bird watching, and star gazing (minimal light pollution). Remember, at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, do not disturb plant or animal life, geological features, or Indian or historical artifacts. These park resources are protected by law! Bring your own firewood. Rock climbers must check in at headquarters; route maps and climbing rules available.