20 Best Trails and Hikes in El Paso

The North Franklin Mountain Summit Trail provides a thrilling climb up to a pivotal viewpoint. Ascending to the summit rewards hikers with expansive views that include an amazing 360-degree view of the surroundings.

This trail is completely exposed to the sun, thus you must arrive on time. So, wearing plenty of sun protection is highly advised here.

Although dogs are welcome at Franklin Mountains State Park, the Summit Trail is not recommended for dogs because of loose pebbles here.

• Time: 4 hr 36 min
• Distance: 7.2 miles
  
• Average Speed: 1.8 mph
  
• Uphill and Downhill: 2,325 ft

The Trunk Trail at Mammoth is a strenuous climb through the untamed Franklin Mountains near El Paso. Hikers start their adventure at the Trans-Mountain Road parking spot and wind their way up a canyon, then climb a red rhyolite hillside to the ridgeline.

The walk ends in the unique Elephant's Trunk rock structure, which provides sweeping views of the surroundings.

Owing to the topography, hikers can tailor their experience by choosing from a variety of upward and downward paths. It is also one of the best places for hiking in El Paso Texas.

• Time: 1 hr 15 min
• Distance: 2.9 miles
• Difficulty Level: Hard

A challenging but enjoyable hike, run, or bike ride down McKelligon Canyon Road is found in the stunning Franklin Mountains of El Paso. It is necessary to wear luminous clothing or lights on this paved road, which is shared with cars, to increase safety.

Although the road is universally accessible, people with disabilities might need help because of its continuous five percent rise.

There are three designated accessible parking places at the trailhead, and there are an equal number of van-accessible spaces with corresponding access aisles.

• Time: 2 hr 14 min
• Distance: 4.84 miles
• Average Speed: 2.2 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 650 ft

Hikers can enjoy a striking fusion of natural beauty and history on the El Paso Tin Mines Trail, which is tucked away within the Franklin Mountains State Park.

Despite being rated as a moderate route, hikers of all fitness levels can access it due to its smooth ascent and descent. As its name indicates, leads to the ruins of a once-bustling tin mine, providing an interesting window into the area's mining history.

Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking sweeping views of the surrounding desert scenery and the city of El Paso along the route.

• Time: 3 hr 46 min
• Distance: 8.33 miles
• Average Speed: 2.2 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 925 ft

A rewarding climb into the heart of the Franklin Mountains can be found on Mundy's Gap Trail. With a gentle ascent, this moderate walk offers hikers expansive views of El Paso and the neighboring peaks. Both approaches to the trailhead, the west and the east offer different experiences.

Starting at the Agave Trail, the western approach offers a gradual ascent incorporated with stops to take in the majesty of the mountain.

On the other hand, the eastern side features interesting rock formations and a link to the ancient Tin Mines. The trail gains only a moderate amount of elevation, but hikers are awarded with amazing views that make the effort worthwhile.

• Time: 2 hr 8 min
• Distance: 4.10 miles
• Average Speed: 1.9 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 975 ft

Hiking South Franklin Mountain via Ron Coleman Trail is a classic hiking experience in El Paso. Hikers who complete this strenuous climb, which can be reached from the Franklin Mountains State Park's northern entrance, are rewarded with expansive views over the city and the surrounding desert.

Noted for its rough beauty, the Ron Coleman Trail boasts spectacular vistas, steep inclines, and exposed rock walls.

Hikers experience a variety of ecosystems as they ascend, moving from rocky outcroppings to desert scrub. The trek requires physical fitness, but the satisfaction of reaching the summit is unmatched.

• Time: 2 hr 20 min
• Distance: 3.66 miles
• Average Speed: 1.6 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 1,475 ft

For those who enjoy hiking, the Franklin Mountains State Park's Thousand Steps Trail loop is a strenuous but worthwhile trek. Rightly called for its many steps winding up the mountainside, it is well-known for its hard ascent.

Reaching the summit rewards hikers with expansive vistas of El Paso and the surrounding desert terrain.

The route is challenging, but it's also well-maintained and provides opportunities to see a variety of plants and animals. The Thousand Steps Trail is the perfect option for anyone looking for a difficult physical challenge combined with beautiful views.

• Time: 1 hr 27 min
• Distance: 2.68 miles
• Average Speed: 1.9 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 700 ft

Hiking El Paso's Ranger Peak Loop via Thousand Steps Trail is quite a challenging but worthwhile experience. The first part of this loop, the Thousand Steps Trail, is known for its rugged climb. It requires physical effort but then also offers stunning views.

After reaching the top, hikers have the option to carry on along the Ranger Peak Loop, where the terrain changes to a more moderate pace.

This circuit offers an exceptional chance to enjoy the pleasure of finishing a strenuous course while also fully immersing oneself in the desert environment.

• Time: 2 hr 45 min
• Distance: 4.74 miles
• Average Speed: 1.7 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 1,525 ft

In the middle of El Paso's bustling cityscape, the Ascarate Lake Loop provides a serene haven. This leisurely trail circles the scenic Ascarate Lake and offers hiking, jogging, and cycling enthusiasts a great experience.

Because the path is mostly level, people of various fitness levels can use it. Walkers and runners are blessed with spectacular views of the surrounding vegetation and water as they take in the soft beat of their footsteps.

The serene atmosphere created by the lake is perfect for rest and renewal, especially when combined with the chance to see wildlife.  Ascarate Lake Loop is among the best hiking trails in El Paso Texas.

• Time: 38 min
• Distance: 1.51 miles
• Average Speed: 2.4 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 50 ft

Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain, a prominent feature in the Franklin Mountain Range of El Paso, is an adventure not to be missed. In contrast to the nearby summits under the management of the Franklin Mountains State Park, Sugarloaf is free to the public.

But this freedom requires very little upkeep and control. Rising atop the daunting McKelligon Canyon eastern wall, Sugarloaf offers a strenuous but worthwhile climb.

Hikers who complete a self-navigated trek to the summit are rewarded with expansive views over the city and neighboring mountains. Reachable from Davis Seamon Road and McKelligon Canyon Road crossroads, where free parking is also available.

• Time: 1 hr 40 min
• Distance: 1.70 miles
• Average Speed: 1.0 mph
• Uphill and Downhill: 800 ft

Hikers can have an exciting adventure through the stunning terrain on the Aztec Cave Trail located within the Franklin Mountains State Park. Adventurers who take on the moderately difficult path are presented with sensational views of the surrounding mountains.

The rugged landscape of the journey adds mystery and culminates in the breathtaking Aztec Caves. As relics from the area's geological past, these natural formations offer a rare chance to understand the untainted force of the natural world.

This Trail provides a satisfying outdoor experience for those looking for either physical activity or a deeper connection to the environment.

• Time: 1.5 hr
• Distance: 1.2 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Situated in a gorgeous natural area, Lost Dog Trail Head is a fascinating getaway for wildlife lovers. Located in west El Paso, this trail is well-known for its varied appeal and moderate difficulty.

Although the trail is most known for being a mountain biker's paradise, walkers, runners, and hikers are also welcome to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Lost Dog Trail Head is a beloved place for those looking for adventure and peace in the middle of the city. As visitors travel the undulating terrain, they are surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

• Time: 1 hr 38 min
• Distance: 4.2 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

A tranquil getaway into the heart of the Franklin Mountains may be found on the Lazy Cow Trail. Hikers of all skill levels should consider this 6.8-mile round-trip course, especially those looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert scenery as they make their way across the mild terrain. The walk is a colorful mosaic of cacti and wildflowers, offering an enthralling display of the area's distinctive vegetation.

In the middle of El Paso's natural splendor, the Lazy Cow Trail offers a peaceful escape for those, looking for solitude or a casual outdoor experience.

• Time: Around 2 hours
• Distance: 6.8 miles
• Difficulty Level: Easy

For those looking for a moderate challenge, the Arroyo Trail to Palisades Canyon offers a fascinating outdoor experience. Cradled close to El Paso, Texas, this 7.1 km circle trail is a favorite with hikers and mountain bikers.

There are quieter times of year along the trail, even though it is often used by outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers and cyclists who follow this path are presented with amazing views of the canyon and a variety of landscapes.

Hence, this beautiful excursion is open to allow dogs, making it a fun family outing for the whole family.

• Time: 1 hr 54 min
• Distance: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

The Maze-Cardiac Hill Loop Trail takes hikers on a thrilling adventure through the center of El Paso's desert. This trail is a moderately difficult route, that blends two different routes into one for a well-rounded outdoor adventure.

Hikers start at the Old Tin Mine Trail Road park entry and immediately encounter the Maze Trail, which follows the road alongside and then connects with the Cardiac Hill ascent.

Hikers can experience a range of terrain on this dynamic loop, from twisting pathways through the desert to the strenuous ascent up Cardiac Hill. Participants will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound appreciation for the area's natural beauty as they travel this picturesque path.

• Time: 2 hr 5 min
• Distance: 4.9 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

The B-36 Crash Hike is an unusual and strenuous historical tour of El Paso. The moving remains of a 1953 US Air Force B-36D plane that was tragically destroyed in a dust storm can be seen along this track.

Hikers come across strewn wreckage, a sobering reminder of the catastrophe, as they make their way across the difficult terrain. Because of its rough terrain, the trail itself requires appropriate footwear, which heightens the adventure.

Even though climbing is physically very demanding, individuals looking for a combination of meaningful contemplation and outdoor exploration will find the historical significance of the location to be a fascinating draw.

• Time: More than 1 hour
• Distance: 2.29 miles
• Difficulty Level: Hard

In the center of the desert is the mesmerizing Cottonwood Spring Trail, with magnificent mountains on either side, this charming road winds through a valley and offers dazzling views around every corner.

Although there is no denying the trail's appeal, hikers are encouraged to arrive prepared. The trail is exposed, so it's important to have enough of water and sun protection. The terrain is rough, so strong footwear is required.

Hikers are invited to enjoy the moment and fully immerse themselves in the distinctive beauty of the desert terrain as they travel along this dramatic path.

• Time: 1 hr 42 min
• Distance: 3.10 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

The fairly difficult Schaeffer Shuffle Trail offers the best chance to fully immerse oneself in the native flora and fauna as it meanders through scenic canyons and washes.

The trail is well-planned, with educational information emphasizing different plant species and plenty of places for hikers to stop and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The trailhead descent marks the start of the route, which offers a variety of terrain and spectacular views as it advances over a succession of ascents and descents. Hikers are rewarded with expansive vistas of the surrounding desert terrain as they make their way through the canyon and up to the peak.

• Time: 1 hr 29 min
• Distance: 2.6 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

South of El Paso, Gilbert's Trail provides an exciting outdoor experience. Mountain bikers and hikers share this multi-use path, offering chances for varied exploration.

Along the way, hikers can expect to see rare native plants and animals as well as beautiful views of the desert.

A variety of outdoor enthusiasts can reach it due to its mild topography, and there are extra spur trails for those looking for shorter or longer adventures. Gilbert's Trail serves as a tribute to the city's central natural beauty and leisure options.

• Time: 2 hr 7 min
• Distance: 5.5 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

The Trans-Franklin Mountain Trail is a long walk that winds through the range from west to east, finishing at Mundy Gap and going past the old Tin Mines.

The trail offers its travelers expansive views of the desert terrain, making it the perfect choice for experienced hikers looking for a significant challenge. Hikers discover a beautiful tapestry of indigenous plants and animals as they go through a variety of environments.

Because the trail is exposed, it is imperative to wear enough sun protection. This amazing journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fully experience the splendor of the Franklin Mountains.

• Time: 6 hr 28 min
• Distance: 12.8 miles
• Difficulty Level: Hard