Trip Ideas

4 Best Scenic Drives in El Paso
From roads tucked between beautiful mountains to drives that cut through pecan orchards, these are the 4 best scenic drives in El Paso.

Scenic Drive
Known as the best view of the city accessible by car, Scenic Drive wows visitors every time. The winding road skirts around the east side of the mountain offering up some of the most stunning views of the city. The road is cut along the edge of the mountains and traverses the southern tip of the Franklins. One side of the winding road is lined by beautiful stately homes while the other features fabulous views of El Paso and Juarez. Get the most out of your drive by pulling over at the small park and scenic overlook. To access Scenic Drive turn onto Rim Rd. from either Mesa St. or Alabama St.

Highway 28
Highway 28 is an old fashioned, two-lane road that runs from North El Paso to Old Mesilla, New Mexico. Lined with pretty pecan orchards that stretch for miles, Highway 28 offers you the unique opportunity to journey back to a simpler time. As you traverse the winding path, chile farms, wine vineyards, and horse and cattle ranches set on idyllic pastures open up before you. It’s a steady, relaxing ride over a beautiful bucolic landscape. So take your time and take in the scenery. But be cautious; you’re likely to pass a tractor or two along the way. While the ride itself is a breathtaking spectacle, Highway 28 has a diverse collection of alluring attractions such as Zin Valle Vineyards, La Vina Winery and for a real treat contact Miller Horse Farm and schedule one of their trail rides. For the most picturesque route we suggest accessing via El Paso’s Upper Valley from Country Club Rd. to Westside Dr.

Transmountain Road
Passing through the protected Franklin Mountain State Park, Transmountain Road is perfectly situated for glorious shows at day’s break and end. Watching an El Paso sunset, especially from Transmountain Road is something that certainly defines a true El Paso experience. Several picnic tables with awnings are offered along the road. The road connects Northeast and Northwest El Paso so accessing the road is convenient no matter the side of town.

The historic Mission Trail is a nine-mile stretch across time in El Paso County’s Mission Valley. The historic trail is named for the three missions that date back to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries: Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission and San Elizario Chapel, which are the oldest churches in the stat of Texas. The exquisite structures depict the culture and insurmountable spirit of the early settlers of this vibrant town. This drive is sure to take you back in time! We recommend accessing the trail via the intersection of Zaragoza and Alameda.