Being a mountain dog, I was eager to explore Texas hill country when we lived there. My humans were kind enough to plan a trip to Fredericksburg so we could do just that. The drive is a little over four hours from the Houston area, but we stopped in a lovely town called Boerne. They have a great walking path along the river. I got to see ducks and turtles in the water! You can park right along the road, and it was the perfect opportunity to stretch the old legs…and leave my calling card everywhere!
We arranged to stay at the LaQuinta in Fredericksburg, a dog-friendly hotel, but they mistakenly quoted us 
the rate, and it was outrageous, whatever that means. We left and drove the twenty-four miles to the Kerrville LaQuinta. My humans said they got three nights for the price of one in Fredericksburg…with the same amenities. We drove back to Fredericksburg and walked around town. The drive was so worth it because we discovered a store just for me—and all my canine friends! Dogologie is located at 148 East Main and has the best treats! I pulled out all my best tricks and was celebrated by all. Sadly, we had to eventually leave this utopia of all-things dog.
The trip just kept getting better, though. We drove through the hills, all colored with reds and yellows, and up to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. I immediately knew this was going to be awesome since I saw so many soon-to-be canine friends! We were warned to arrive early as the park limits those who come in. By 11:00 am, they may shut the gates, especially during peak seasons March to June and October to December. The cost is $6.00 per human; dogs are free.
Thankfully, the weather was on the cool side, so my mom and I could about run up the 425-foot pink granite rock. Oh I was in my element! We had a couple of slow poke humans with us, though, but we were nice enough to wait for them. No matter, that gave me time to sniff, swirl, and properly introduce myself to all the other dogs. Dogs are definitely welcome but need to be on their leash. Your humans will want to bring water; you’ll work up a thirst. Enchanted Rock is steep without a specific path outlined. We’ll know exactly where to go—up—but your humans will want sturdy hiking shoes.
At the top, the views of the surrounding area are quite beautiful. We could see for miles. The humans had to catch their breath before we headed down, but that allowed plenty of other people to come say hello to me. Have I told you I have fans everywhere? It’s true. Anyway, we didn’t require nearly as much time hiking down as we did going up. Humans had to go easy on their knees and watch their footing.
Even though we stayed in Kerrville, we did head over to walk around Fredricksburg. It was decked out for Christmas, and that’s my mom’s favorite time of year. The town was very dog friendly with a store specifically for canines like me. Woof! How cool was that? I’m always up for free treats! Then we sat down to meet Santa, although he kinda smelled funny.
My humans ate some yummy German food, which is the heritage of this town apparently. As the sun went down, the
lights came on. It was nice and chilly, but I did find a nice place to warm up. After a very big day, I was ready to snooze. Our hotel was comfy, and the drive home went by quickly. This area of Texas is really neat, and if you haven’t been at Christmastime, put it on your list. Ho ho ho! May Santapaws bring you lots of bones!
Hi! I am Kumaito (Kuma for short), a multi-tan Shiba Inu. My breed is one of the oldest and purest from Japan. I personally was born in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, moved to Friendswood, Texas, and now call Phoenix, Arizona home. I enjoy running or hiking almost every day with my mom, chasing rabbits out of my neighborhood, playing with toys, pestering my brother Edmond, eating, napping … well, I love just about everything and everyone!
My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith (Founder of the FIT Leader Formula™) is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures, big and small. My mom is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, business consultant, executive coach, behavioral-wellness expert, and author of eight published books. More importantly, she’s the best doggy mom ever!
Enjoy my blog at https://www.lorrainebosse-smith.com/category/kuma/ and be sure to follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kumathedog
Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross. Happy tails!
