Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

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Trails Information

Scenic views, geological wonders, and stunning beauty await.

Male and female bunting perched on tree limb
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.
List of Trails

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!
List of Points of Interest

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.