The 1st Wandering – albeit small Enchanted Rock
I figure it’s a good idea to start small and since this is Spring Break in Texas and since my brother in law is here to visit we decided to take a day trip.
All 7 of us got into the van at 9:00. Tony, the kids, Phil and Elaine (my mother in law). I drove. I always drive because I’m a terrible back seat driver. I believe I have a right to be a terrible back seat driver because I’ve been in numerous car accidents – all where I was not the driver. So to calm my own nerves and the nerves of those around me – I drive.
First – a quick look at my Palm to be sure I’m not missing any appointments by going hiking today. Luckily I’ve pretty much cleared the deck. I’ve got my phone, just in case and the cord to charge it in the car.
Enchanted Rock is a state park in Texas that is home to a massive rock formation that you can climb ‘(www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/enchantd/). My favorite part is the view from the top. You really get the feeling of the immense and sprawling Texas landscape in 360 degrees like no other place I’ve ever visited. Be prepared for wind. It’s ALWAYS windy up there. The hike is easy enough that my 5 year old was still sprinting at the end of it. However, it’s hard enough that you do see some folks along the side of the trail sitting and waiting for their family to come back down.
20 minutes into the drive I’m glad to have my phone. My business partner calls in from Connecticut with some important matters to discuss. I’m a bit apprehensive to do a business call with 6 others in the car but the family conversation was quiet enough that it worked fine. Phone reception was good all the way on 290 from Austin to Fredericksburg. After Fredericksburg, I lost reception.
Getting to the park, we were reminded that it was spring break. The crowds were huge. Luckily, we got there early enough that we weren’t shut out. Enchanted Rock State Park closes to visitors when it reaches capacity. By the time we left, cars were waiting on the highway for people to leave so they would be allowed to enter. Adults are $6.00 each, Seniors 1/2 price and kids are free. So all 7 of us got in for $21.00.
In spite of the fact that there were more people there than I’ve ever seen, the park is ever beautiful and we had a great time. Weather was in the upper 60′s. Perfect for hiking. We found a spot on top and sat down, enjoying the view before we descended again.
Afterwards we drove the 17 miles back into Fredericksburg and ate lunch at the Fredericksburg Brewing Company (www.yourbrewery.com). I love sitting near the giant fermenting tanks. The food is German and Texan, the beer is decent. The atmosphere is somewhat loud. Prices are moderate but pretty good for Fredericksburg which tends to be a overpriced. You feel a bit like you’re in a constant Oktoberfest. If you wanted you could stay upstairs in the brewery’s bed and breakfast. No drinking and driving necessary!
Next we headed down to Rustlin Rob’s for the food sample madness.
Phil – "Is it like Hickory Farms?"
Me – laugh "It’s like Hickory Farms on cocaine"
There literally must be thousands of Texan foods you can sample there. Mostly salsas, dips, sauces and jellies. It’s pretty amazing. Everything gets spread on tiny crackers and you can taste until you’re sick. Oh yes, and you can buy the stuff too. (www.rustlinrobs.com)
My 11 year old daughter was playing with the camera on the way home and it was left in the car. I’m to lazy to go get it now, so I’ll post pictures tomorrow.
All in all, a successful beginning!
