Adventure Awaits: Exploring El Paso's Outdoor Paradise

One of El Paso’s most special features is its thriving outdoor community for exciting adventure, picturesque views, and hundreds of miles for hiking, biking, and more. With year-round sunshine, warm temperatures, and a mild climate, the Sun City is the perfect destination to enjoy countless outdoor activities. Start planning your next visit to El Paso by making an itinerary to check out some of the city’s most popular outdoor attractions and trail and become one with the desert landscapes of El Paso.

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

Within its city limits alone, El Paso is home to the majestic Franklin Mountains State Park, 27,000 acres of rugged desert land and vegetation, miles of hiking trails, and curious species. A car ride through Transmountain Road will take you to the entry gates of the state park. Pack your overnight bag, tent, and supplies to camp under the stars in the Franklin Mountains. The Franklin Mountains offer residents and visitors convenient access to great hiking, biking, rock climbing, and camping. Either visit for a few hours to hike to the Aztec Caves, rock climb at McKelligon Canyon and Sneed’s Cory, or reserve a campsite in the Tom Mays Unit. Spring, summer, and fall are the busiest times of year, so reservations for both camping and day use are highly recommended.

Aztec Cave Trail - Hiking to the Aztec Caves offers adventurers a captivating blend of natural beauty and geological wonder. As you embark on the moderate trail, expect to traverse rocky terrain amid panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The caves provide a unique glimpse into the rugged landscape's geological history, offering a sense of awe for the forces of nature.

McKelligon Canyon 

Nestled on the southeastern side of the Franklin Mountains and surrounded by desert canyon walls, McKelligon Canyon is a popular destination known for its rock climbing, hiking, running, walking, and biking. All hiking trails including the Ron Coleman Trail begin at the end of McKelligon Canyon and are open year-round.

Tin Mines Trail 

Tucked away in the Franklin Mountains is the challenging and popular 6.6-mile Tin Mines Trail. The trail takes visitors to the site of abandoned tin mines, open for visitors to explore and offers views of the sprawling mountains and city.

Mundy’s Gap Overlook 

A 3.9-mile trail considered very challenging, it takes about 2 hours to complete, this trail is very popular for hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Ideal times for visiting are September through May. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Lost Dog Trail Head 

Amid the beauty of this nature preserve, Lost Dog Trail Head is a 7.7-mile loop in west El Paso. The moderately challenging trail is most popular for mountain biking, but visitors are welcome to hike, run, or walk the trail and through the surrounding area.

Rio Bosque Wetlands Park

Rio Bosque is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning over 370 acres, this scenic park is a flourishing riparian habitat, with trails winding through wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands that bring the native landscape of the Rio Grande Valley to life. Known for its rich biodiversity, Rio Bosque is home to a variety of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, as well as unique flora like cottonwood trees and desert willows. Visitors can hike, bird-watch, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park’s ponds and waterways. Guided tours offer insights into the park’s ecosystem, its conservation efforts, and its role in preserving the region’s natural heritage.