Best Places to hike in El Paso, Texas
El Paso is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but those who take the time to explore the city will be rewarded with a wealth of hidden gems.
El Paso is a city worth exploring, from the picturesque mountains and canyons to the vibrant arts and culture scene. And what better way to do that than by hitting the trails?
There are several great hiking trails in and around El Paso, so whether you’re looking for an easy hike or a challenging trek, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your needs.
Here are just a few of the best hiking trails in El Paso:
1. Mammoth Rock
Length of Trail: 1.04 miles
Cost: Free
Location: El Paso, TX 79912, United States
Located on Ron Coleman Trail, Mammoth Rock is considered one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The trail itself is a moderate hike, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Rock formations, cacti, and desert flowers line the trail, making for a beautiful hike. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way.
The mammoth-shaped rock formation is the trail’s highlight, and it’s worth the climb to see it up close. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no shade on this hike.
2. Mundy’s Gap Overlook
Length of Trail: 3.91 miles
Cost: $5
Location: Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso, TX 79930, United States
Phone: (915) 444-9100
Franklin Mountains State Park is home to several great hiking trails, but Mundy’s Gap will take your breath away.
The trail is a moderate to strenuous hike, but the views are worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas of the Franklin Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape. While it has a low elevation gain, the Mundy’s Gap trail can be challenging due to loose rocks and sand. Be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
3. Rio Bosque Wetlands Park
Length of Trail: 0.8 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 10716 Socorro RD, El Paso, TX 79927
Phone: (915) 747-8663
A park in the middle of the desert? You bet!
Rio Bosque Wetlands Park is a wetland oasis in the heart of El Paso. The 372-acre park is home to various flora and fauna amidst a desert landscape.
The park has several different hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. But regardless of which path you choose, you’re sure to be amazed by the beauty of this hidden gem.
Be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to snap many pictures of the stunning landscape. Don’t forget your binoculars — you might spot some of the park’s resident wildlife.
4. Palisades Canyon Loop
Length of Trail: 5 miles
Cost: Free
Location: El Paso, TX 79902
If you are new to hiking, the Palisades Canyon Loop is a great place to start. The trail is easy, with a gentle elevation gain, making it ideal for beginners. You can enjoy the views of El Paso and Juarez, the Mexican city across the border. Sunset is the best time to hike this trail, as you can watch the colors change on the mountains.
If hiking at night, you can also see thousands of lights shining from the city below — a sight to behold. Just be sure to bring a flashlight and wear proper footwear, as the trail can be slippery after rain.
5. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Length of Trail: 1.9 miles
Cost: $7
Location: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938
Phone: (915) 857-1135
Spanning more than 800 acres of desert landscape, Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site is a must-visit for any nature lover.
From bird-watching to rock climbing, Hueco Tanks State Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park’s highlight is the unique rock formations — some more than 20 million years old! Boulders are scattered throughout the park, providing ample rock climbing and picnicking opportunities.
6. Pipeline Road Trail
Length of Trail: 3.7 miles
Cost: $5
Location: Pipeline Rd, El Paso, TX 79934
Previously used for pipeline inspections, the Pipeline Road Trail sits on private property and is now open to the public. The trail is easy since it is leveled and has a smooth surface. Hikers, bikers, and runners are all welcome on this trail.
Don’t forget to clean up since there are no trash cans along the way. Dogs are also welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
7. Aztec Cave Hiking Trail
Length of Trail: 1.2 miles
Cost: $5.00 single-person rate, or $2.00 per person in groups
Location: Franklin Mountains State Park, El Paso, TX
While the Aztec Cave Hiking Trail is uphill and steep, it is moderately easy and short. This is an excellent trail for beginners because it’s not too long or complex but gives you a good workout.
The caves are also the main attraction here and are worth checking out. Be sure to bring a flashlight so you can see inside the caves!
8. B-36 Crash Hiking Trail
Length of Trail: 2.3 miles
Cost: $5
Location: El Paso, TX 79902
Since it’s a part of the Franklin Mountains State Park, the B-36 Crash Hiking Trail has an entrance fee. The trail is named after a B-36 bomber that crashed into the side of the mountain in 1950, and you can still see some of the wreckage along the route.
This is a more challenging trail, so proper footwear is a must. The trail is also quite rocky, so be careful not to trip and fall.
Flowers bloom along the trail, which makes for a beautiful hike, but be sure to bring plenty of water since there is no shade along the way.
9. El Paso Tin Mine Trail
Length of Trail: 6.6 miles
Cost: $5
Location: Tom Mays Park Access Road, El Paso, TX 79930
An easy hike that is great for all skill levels, the El Paso Tin Mine Trail is one of the most popular trails in the area.
At the trail’s end, you can visit the numerous mining shafts used to mine for tin.
Early mornings are the best time to hike this trail since it can get quite hot in the afternoon. Otherwise, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
10. Lost Dog Trail
Length of Trail: 7.7 miles
Cost: $5
Location: 6936 Cactus Thrush Drive, El Paso, TX 79911
Wildlife and cacti abound on the Lost Dog Trail, making it an excellent hike for those who want to see some of the local flora and fauna.
Mountain bikers and hikers alike will enjoy this trail but should be warned that it is pretty long. If you are hiking, be careful of the mountain bikers since they will come down the path quickly.
Aside from that, the Lost Dog Trail is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery of El Paso.
5 Tips When Hiking in El Paso
El Paso is home to some beautiful hiking trails. The Franklin Mountains State Park alone has over one hundred miles of trails! But before you lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are five tips to help you make the most of your hiking experience in El Paso.
1. Invest in Proper Footwear
This may seem like a no-brainer, but having the proper footwear when hiking is important. Hiking boots or shoes with good traction are necessary since some trails can be quite rocky. It’s also important to choose footwear that will keep your feet dry, as wet feet can lead to blisters and other problems. Socks made from moisture-wicking materials can help with this, as can choosing shoes with good ventilation. Finally, make sure to break in your shoes before hitting the trail, as new shoes can rub and cause pain.
2. Dress in Layers
El Paso is located in the Chihuahuan Desert so the weather can be quite unpredictable. Even if it’s sunny when you start your hike, it could be cool by the time you finish. The best way to be prepared for any weather conditions is to dress in layers. Wear a base layer of light, breathable fabric to keep you cool, followed by a sweater or jacket to keep you warm. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. By dressing in layers, you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather throws your way.
3. Bring Plenty of Water
It’s essential to stay hydrated when hiking, especially in the desert. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you, and drink often. If you’re going on a longer hike, consider bringing along a water filter or purifier so you can refill your water bottle as needed. And if you’re hiking in the summer, be sure to hike early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Otherwise, bring plenty of sunscreen and apply it often.
4. Watch Out for Wildlife
El Paso is home to various wildlife, including snakes, spiders, and scorpions. While most of these creatures are harmless, some can be dangerous. Stay on the trail and watch where you step to avoid surprises. If you see a snake or other creature, give it plenty of space and do not try to capture it. If a creature bites you, seek medical attention immediately. It may be a good idea to bring along a first-aid kit. If you’re hiking with dogs, keep them on a leash at all times. Snakes and other creatures can be attracted to dogs, so it’s best to keep them under control.
5. Be Prepared for an Emergency
Hiking is a great way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies. The first thing to do is to familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be hiking in. Make sure you know the route and are aware of any potential hazards. Packing a few essentials, such as a map, compass, and first-aid kit, is also a good idea. If you’re hiking in a remote area, make sure you have a way to communicate with emergency services. A satellite phone or two-way radio are good options. This way, if something does happen, you can get help as quickly as possible.
Conclusion
El Paso is a city in Texas best known for its desert landscape. However, the city is also home to a variety of other landscapes, including mountains, forests, and grasslands. This diversity of scenery makes El Paso a great place to go hiking.
There are trails of all difficulty levels, so everyone from beginner to experienced hikers can find a trail that suits their needs. Because El Paso is located in the southwestern United States, the climate is mild year-round, so hikers can enjoy the outdoors any time of year. Check this blog post again if you’re planning on hiking in El Paso soon, as we’ll be sure to update it with any new trails or tips!