The main dome, Enchanted Rock proper, is one of many outcrops both within and outside of the park. With an abrupt rise of several hundred feet and a largely bare rock surface, the dome gives tremendous views of the surrounding hill country. The rock is important not only geologically but also supports several rare plants. This hike will follow the main loop trail, plus a side trip up to the summit of the dome. The broad trail starts from the loop at the end of the road and drops down into Sandy Creek.
Signs mark a junction in the creek bottom.
The loop trail goes right, down the wash, while the summit trail climbs straight north up the dome. Anyone who visits Enchanted Rock will be unable to resist climbing the dome, so follow the summit trail for now. Once you get up onto the bare rock surface, just charge straight ahead until you're on the highest point. Enjoy the view. After you tire of watching the vultures circling high above, retreat back down to the loop trail and continue the counter-clockwise circle of the rock.