Hiking and Camping in the Texas Hill Country

Every year tons of people are drawn to the Texas Hill country.  It’s famous for its Texas bluebonnets and green luscious hills making it popular amongst Texans and non Texans alike, especially in the spring and early summer months.  However most visitors to the area don’t know about Enchanted Rock, a Texas State Natural Area, which is a dome made of batholith that juts forth and creates a bit of a challenge for those wanting a view from the top.

While the main Enchanted Rock hiking trail itself isn’t terribly difficult, it does increase in elevation 425 feet in just a distance over a half mile with no shade to help keep the sun from beating down on you and that is probably one of the things that makes it most difficult. This main trail is very popular and during peak hiking times the park will actually close down because maximum capacity is reached and it is opened again once some of the hikers trickle out.

Most that make the trek never bother to go on the other trails that loop around the dome.  While these trails don’t offer the most spectacular views they offer some less crowded hiking with plenty of views of the dome.  Also, many rock climbing trails sprout off of this trail so you can bring your climbing gear and enjoy climbing near the rock.

The area also has some camping at Enchanted Rock so you can bring your camping tent and get a few days off from your busy schedule back home.  They offer some campgrounds that are primitive and some with a few more amenities depending on how much of a luxury trip you want. If you aren’t interested in camping Fredericksburg is nearby and has plenty of motels and bed and breakfasts.  The town itself was settled by German immigrants and has lots of authentic cuisine and eclectic shops.