One of my favorite places to go in Texas when the weather is permitting is Enchanted rock. Its a giant pink granite batholith located in central Texas. Its great for rock climbing, nature, hiking and star gazing. Legend states Tonkawa Indians named this place and believed it was haunted. The rock heats up during the day and night , then it cools and contracts and will make weird noises at night. There lots of wildlife and the views are wonderful atop the summit.
The best part about this place is that's its so quiet. Since I live in Austin in the bigger city, its nice to have some down time to relax and enjoy the country. Its best to come to this place early spring or fall or even during the Texas winter that is mild anyhow. If you come out here when its a 100 degrees you wont have as much fun!
I believe its about 460 feet to the highest point. The boulders here are as big as cars and houses. I incline is very steep and it will get them legs burning for sure
This is a smaller summit. I have only been up on that side once. There is two small lakes at the bases and a stream that goes thru the base as well. During the wet season there is running water but it dries up during the summer unless there is good rains
There is even some cool looking flowers out here as well. During the spring its loaded with wildflowers
I also ran across lots of lizards,manage to get one to get a picture of his blue belly. There were other lizards as well with stripes and orange markings. Even the snake was a colorful.
This Guy in the parking lot was the really friendly. He would follow you for food.
My daughter is having fun. A top the summit there are caves and you can explore them with flashlights and come out on other part of the summit.
Getting to the top is the best part. There is also I nice breeze every time I am at the top. The view is always nice for the eyes to enjoy. You can camp out here as well to see the stars all come out at night. I can barley see any stars in Austin so its nice to see the milky way when I have the chance.
The back side offers the best view to the Texas hill country. You can come up here and relax, feel the wind in your face and have the freedom to think about whatever you want to. Its a great stress reliever and I always want to come back. So if your passing thru Texas , or live here and never been give it a visit. Hope every one enjoys it and take care guys!!