The arid, mountainous area around El Paso, Texas, is packed with trails for new hikers, experienced people, and experts who want to tackle the toughest paths. You can get some exercise, spend time outdoors in natural light, and see beautiful scenery! Here are some of the best places for hiking trails near El Paso.
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The El Paso Tin Mines Trail
The 6.6-mile El Paso Tin Mines Trail is a relatively easy hike inside Franklin Mountains State Park. You can see desert wildflowers near the trail, and bird watching is popular there. This trail’s highest elevation is 1,023 feet. It’s perfect for families with kids, dogs, and you can go horseback or bike riding. There’s no shade nearby, so you should bring plenty of water and use sunscreen. If you bring a flashlight and watch out for bats, you can explore the only tin mines in the United States. However, this part of the trail may be too difficult for young kids.
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The Aztec Cave Trail
This trail is also in Franklin Mountains State Park. It’s only 1.2 miles long, but it could be difficult for many people. There’s a steep incline leading to the cave, and most individuals take about two hours to make a round trip. The Aztec Cave Trail is mostly covered in gravel, and the view at its peak elevation of 5,559 feet is impressive. Benches near the trail give hikers plenty of places to rest, and you’re likely to see a variety of wildlife.
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The Ron Coleman Trail
The 7-mile Ron Coleman Trail stretches between two canyons, and it has lots of rugged terrain. The impressive rock faces nearby make it popular for climbers as well as experienced hikers. It’s an ideal day hike as there are two caves nearby and the views are amazing. On a clear day, you can see three states and part of Mexico. The highest elevation is more than 3,000 feet, and you should be prepared for a challenging climb.
If you get to the top of a jagged rock face, you can see The Window, a hole in the side of the mountain that gives you a great view of the east side of El Paso. Check the weather before you leave to avoid uncomfortably windy days, and remember to watch for roadrunners, golden hawks, and other wildlife.
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The North Mount Franklin Trail
The North Mount Franklin Trail is one of the most challenging in the area. It covers 8 miles, and its elevation is 7,192 feet, the highest in the area. There are benches along the trail, and leashed dogs are allowed. At the top of the mountain, you can see an old radio tower. The trail is closed in bad weather.
The trails around El Paso, Texas are ideal for fun hikes, seeing local plants and animals, and taking interesting photos. You can explore the area, learn more about the ecosystem, and stay in great shape without venturing too far from the city!
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