Enchanted Rock & Beginnings
Each year, around my birthday, I make time for a long solo hike or trail run. It's become my little tradition to reflect on the past year: no music, no distractions, just some quiet time in nature.
It's not lost on me what a privilege it is to feel comfortable alone outside. There are so many factors that contribute to preventing people from getting outside: lack of access, lack of knowledge, and lack of encouragement. It's hard to step into an unwelcoming space; sadly, for many, that is the outdoors.
Even as an Eagle Scout who grew up camping, it still feels like I'm behind. Do I know what to pack? What does Poison Oak look like? Am I bringing enough water? Do I need a permit?
I’ve always felt this joy in sharing my love of nature, in making the outdoors more approachable and hopefully a little more equitable. Some of this work comes to life as a volunteer mentor with Explore Austin, and I want to take it a little further.
I want to start sharing more of my favorite spots. Really make it a point to seek out the best places to sneak away for the day and share those with more people. Be a resource to help others fast-track being more comfortable and confident getting a little lost.
So here it goes, follow along as I hike through Texas, mostly day hikes and the occasional wilderness adventure beyond the Lone Star State. Starting with my recent day trip to Enchanted Rock.
Since moving to Austin, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has been on my bucket list. Known for its massive pink granite dome, Enchanted Rock State Park, located in Fredericksburg, TX, is an hour and fifty-minute drive from Austin. Enchanted Rock attracts thousands each year, so as a best practice, plan ahead and book a day pass in advance through the Texas State Parks website. I went on a Monday and had no problem booking the morning before I headed out, but booking that day is not a solid plan if you want to tent camp or go on a weekend.
In general, if you plan on going to any Texas State Park, get your day passes and make your reservations as early as possible.
From a bird's-eye view, hikers can explore over 11 miles of trails, including the iconic summit trail leading to stellar panoramic views. Campers have access to both walk-in sites and hike-in primitive sites. Enchanted Rock is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, so an overnight stay gives you access to some of the best stargazing in the world. If a day trip is more your speed, the unique geologic formations make this park worth the drive.
I cobbled together a few trails and ended up with a 4-ish-mile hike surrounded by the beginnings of wildflower season. The Summit Trail is a must-do and is on the most challenging part of the hike due to the continuous incline.
One thing to note, Enchanted Rock doesn’t permit dogs on all of their trails. I spent some time on the Loop Trail which is dog-friendly with a pretty even well-maintained surface. If you are bringing a dog, grab a map at check-in to see where you can go.
Overall, even with the almost two hour drive Enchanted Rock lived up to the hype. I’m adding it to my “need to tent camp here” list and will be back to trail run the Loop Trail.
Take your time, bring more water than you think you need, and stop to appreciate the view.
- Matt