The "Enchanted Rock"

Enchanted Rock (16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg TX) is an enormous pink granite pluton located in the Llano Uplift approximately 15 miles (24 km) north of Fredericksburg, Texas, USA and 15 miles (24 km) south of Llano, Texas. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, which includes Enchanted Rock and surrounding land, spans the border between Gillespie County and Llano County, south of the Llano River. Enchanted Rock covers approximately 640 acres (260 ha) and rises approximately 425 feet (130 m) above the surrounding terrain to elevation of 1,825 feet (556 m) above sea level. It is the largest such pink granite monadnock in the United States. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a part of the Texas state park system, includes 1,644 acres (665 ha).

Today turned out to be another amazing day during my Texas experience. With my "Giant" mountain bike now just a very pleasant memory. I turned to another enjoyment of mine. That would be hiking. The weather was perfect for a day to be out and about. To enjoy this place that is called Texas. I would not be alone for this adventure. My new friend Mike Bykov from Minnesota. Would be part of the Enchanted Rock expedition.

We set out after breakfast, and had a pleasant drive to a small town, located about 30 miles from Austin. We then decided to stop at a local restaurant to enjoy a nice lunch. That we did. Mike enjoyed an excellent cheeseburger. I enjoyed a nice plate of liver and onions. Then we continued on to the town of Fredricksburg. From there we headed north to the state park, where the "Enchanted Rock" is located.

After we entered the park. The excitement of the day was at hand. Mike and I headed out on a hike. We intended to hike to the top of the Enchanted Rock. We never made it to the top as we got lost several times. Even though we tried hard to read the map, provided to us by the park Rangers. Also trying to follow the trail became very difficult. as the trails were very poorly marked.

However we did enjoy a very special walk. That only hiking in a beautiful place in nature can provide.

Our route for this hike. Actually brought us partially around the Enchanted Rock. Then we veered down off the "Rock", and off of the trail. Over some very rough terrain. We then finished in the place we were suppose to start. From the beginning of the hike. The experience was a lot of fun and and created a great day!

Dinner was another very pleasant experience. Mike and I would up eating in Fredricksburg. In a restaurant that brewed there own beer. The food was very good, and the beer even better.