Trails Information
Trail descriptions and points of interest at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Scenic views, geological wonders, and stunning beauty await.
- Painted buntings
The exciting trails in the park offer more than just a trip to the summit. Hike the trails of this natural wonder to find a quiet spot, take a deep breath, and open your senses to all that Enchanted Rock has to offer.
Trails
All trails are for foot traffic only.
Pets are prohibited on all elevated areas including the Summit Trail. Pets are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas and on the Loop Trail, only.
This list may not include all trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interpretive Loop | 0.5 mi. | 25 min. | Easy | This short trail provides an up-close look at many special plants and animals that live near the base of Little Rock. |
| Loop Trail | 4.6 mi. | 2.5 hrs. | Moderate-Difficult | Carry plenty of water with you on this trek around the perimeter of the park. The granite pathway leads you to incredible views of the natural area. This is the only trail open after sunset. Bring along a flashlight if you're planning to stargaze. |
| Turkey Pass Trail | 0.7 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | This trail gives you great views of Enchanted Rock on one side, with Turkey Peak and Freshman Mountain on the other. |
| Base Trail | 0.9 mi. | 30 min. | Moderate | From the intersection of Turkey Pass Trail or Echo Canyon Trail, take this trail around the back side of the Rock for a different perspective. |
| Echo Canyon Trail | 0.7 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate-Challenging | From the Loop Trail via Moss Lake Trail, hike around Moss Lake and into the saddle between Little Rock and Enchanted Rock. Stop and rest in the shade of massive boulders. |
| Summit Trail | 0.8 mi. | 45 min. | Challenging | The trail winds to the top of the park’s namesake. Look for rare vernal pools at the top. They’re home to the delicate fairy shrimp and rock quillwort, so please don’t disturb these fragile habitats! |
| Scenic View Trail | 0.1 mi. | 10 min. | Moderate | This short hike starting from the south end of the Loop Trail will bring you to a scenic view of the surrounding Hill Country landscape. |
| Frontside Trail | 0.3 mi. | 20 min. | Easy | From the base of Enchanted Rock, take this trail through shaded oak trees and connect to Turkey Pass. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | 360° Views | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interpretive Loop | 30.4984° | -98.8207° | View from the base of Little Rock, halfway along the trail View of the Interpretive Loop trailhead |
This easy 1/2-mile stroll highlights the flora and fauna at the natural area. Get a brochure at the trailhead to learn more! |
| Little Rock | 30.5027° | -98.8240° | View of Little Rock and Echo Canyon trail | Check out the giant boulders and other exfoliation features of Little Rock. |
| Enchanted Rock Summit | 30.5065° | -98.8187° | View from the summit View from halfway up the Summit Trail |
You'll see 360° views of the park and the Texas Hill Country from the 1,823-ft. summit of Enchanted Rock. |
| Buzzard's Roost | 30.5107° | -98.8081° | View of Buzzard's Roost from the Loop Trail View of Buzzard's Roost from the Base Trail |
Crossing Sandy Creek from the south, you’ll see the massive exfoliation sheet on Buzzard's Roost. |
| Moss Lake | 30.5094° | -98.8259° | View from the south bank of Moss Lake | Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Enchanted Rock and Little Rock. Bring along your gear for some relaxed fishing. |
| Echo Canyon | 30.5067° | -98.8218° | View of Echo Canyon | Stop in this beautiful area for some shade under the oaks and a picnic in the boulders. |
| Scenic Overlook | 30.5050° | -98.8325° | View from the scenic overlook | Relax and enjoy a quiet, beautiful Hill Country sunset and views of the surrounding Texas landscape. Bring a flashlight and stay up late for some stargazing! |
Staying Safe
- Know your limits. Prepare for sun and heat. Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate clothing/hiking shoes.
- Drink plenty of water. Your body quickly loses fluids when you’re on the trail. Bring a quart (32 oz.) of water per hour of activity.
- Tell others where you’ll be. If possible, avoid exploring alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- You may not be able to connect. It’s a good idea to take along a cell phone and GPS unit, but don’t count on them.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on trails.
- Know your limits. Watch out for uneven terrain, and don’t venture into areas beyond your ability.
Trail Etiquette
- Trash your trash. Keep the park natural. Pack out all of your trash and Leave No Trace, including dog waste bags!
- Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick and more likely to harm people.
- Take only memories and pictures. Please don't disturb or remove any of the park's plants or rocks.
- Keep pets on leashes for their safety, and to protect wildlife. Pets are allowed in designated areas only.
- Campfires are permitted only in designated rings and not in the primitive camping area due to potential for ground scarring and wildfires.
- Vernal pools are off limits. Please help us protect life in these fragile ecosystems on Enchanted Rock.
