Lantern-Lit Copper Mine Tour

January 4, 2026

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

2900 Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso TX 79911

Admission: $8.00 per adult 13 years of age and older, $3.00 for Texas State Park Pass holders, and $1.00 for children between the ages of 5 and 12. Payment can be made at the Visitor Center as you enter Tom Mays.

Step back in time and explore the copper prospecting mine by lantern light.

Join your park ranger turned turn-of-the-century guide on a historical exploration of an old mine shaft in the Franklin’s. We will meet at the West Cottonwood Springs Trailhead in the Tom Mays unit of Franklin Mountains State Park.

Reservations required; to reserve your spot, call the office at (915) 444-9121.

Note Due to the small size of this mine, only 14 participants are allowed per tour.

Bring: water, snacks, hiking boots/shoes, and comfortable clothes. If you are sensitive to oil lamp smoke, a face mask is highly encouraged.

Optional: climbing/biking helmet or hardhat, hiking stick, camera, and a map.

Contact Name: Lydia Pagel

Contact E-mail Address:

Contact Phone Number: 915 444 9100

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