Starting Tuesday, hikers at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area will be able to explore the park’s Backcountry Area on their own for the first time, marking a major expansion of public access at the popular Central Texas destination.
The opening marks the first phase of self-guided day use in the Backcountry Area. Under the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s timeline for properties acquired through the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, facilitated activities such as guided hikes begin around the 12-month mark, followed by expanded public day use about six months later.
“This first wave of development will be a good fit for true adventurers who want a more rugged experience than what they’ve been currently experiencing at Enchanted Rock,” Superintendent Doug Cochran said. “Future phases will see close parking so people of other experience levels can enjoy the beauty of the Backcountry.”
New trail maps are available at park headquarters and online. The Backcountry Area will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., different from the hours for Enchanted Rock’s main park area, which are 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Park officials are warning hikers that the new trails aren’t for the unprepared. The terrain is rugged, and shade is limited, making water and sun protection especially important during the Texas summer.
“Patrons should bring plenty of water, salty snacks, and plan for sun coverage such as sunscreen and long shirts,” officials wrote. “It is also recommended to hike with a buddy, make a hiking plan beforehand and have your cellphone on you.”
Two water refill stations will be available in the Backcountry Area. One is located at the entrance, while the other sits farther into the property at the intersection of Ringtail Loop and Songbird Trail. A portable restroom is also available near the central water station.
Straddling Gillespie and Llano counties, Enchanted Rock is best known for its massive pink granite dome, which rises 425 feet above the surrounding landscape.
TPWD recently added more than 3,700 acres to the natural area, more than doubling its footprint to 5,388 acres. The newly acquired land includes granite uplands with sweeping Hill Country views, rolling prairies overlooking the iconic dome and areas along Sandy Creek.