12 Parks and Trails Within 60 Miles of El Paso, Texas

1. Franklin Mountains State Park (5 miles north)

• Why Visit? The largest urban park in the U.S. with stunning desert landscapes and mountain views.
• Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and camping.
• Website: Franklin Mountains State Park

2. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site (32 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? A sacred desert oasis with ancient pictographs and world-class rock climbing.
• Activities: Hiking, bouldering, history tours, and stargazing.
• Website: Hueco Tanks State Park

3. Chamizal National Memorial (4 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A historical and cultural site commemorating the peaceful border dispute resolution between the U.S. and Mexico.
• Activities: Walking trails, picnicking, and museum exhibits.
• Website: Chamizal National Memorial

4. Rio Bosque Wetlands Park (15 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A rare wetland ecosystem in the desert, home to diverse bird species and native plants.
• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
• Website: Rio Bosque Wetlands Park

5. Lost Dog Trailhead (10 miles northwest)

• Why Visit? A scenic desert hiking and mountain biking trail with stunning views of El Paso.
• Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Website: Lost Dog Trailhead

6. Tom Mays Unit (Franklin Mountains State Park) (12 miles north)

• Why Visit? A rugged wilderness escape with some of the best sunset views in Texas.
• Activities: Hiking, camping, and scenic overlooks.
• Website: Tom Mays Unit

7. El Paso Tin Mines Trail (15 miles north)

• Why Visit? A historic trail leading to the remains of abandoned tin mines, the only ones in the U.S.
• Activities: Hiking, history exploration, and photography.
• Website: Tin Mines Trail

8. Wyler Aerial Tramway (Temporarily Closed, But Worth Mentioning) (7 miles north)

• Why Visit? Offers breathtaking panoramic views of El Paso, Juárez, and the surrounding mountains.
• Activities: Scenic viewing and photography (pending reopening).
• Website: Wyler Aerial Tramway

9. Ardovino’s Desert Crossing Nature Trails (12 miles southwest, New Mexico)

• Why Visit? A hidden gem in the desert featuring hiking trails, gardens, and local wildlife.
• Activities: Hiking, photography, and farm-to-table dining nearby.
• Website: Ardovino’s Desert Crossing

10. Red Sands Off-Road Trails (25 miles east)

• Why Visit? A unique desert dune landscape, perfect for off-roading and hiking.
• Activities: ATV riding, hiking, and sand dune exploration.
• Website: Red Sands

11. Keystone Heritage Park & Desert Botanical Gardens (10 miles west)

• Why Visit? A historical and ecological site featuring a desert botanical garden and wetlands.
• Activities: Walking trails, birdwatching, and photography.
• Website: Keystone Heritage Park

12. McKelligon Canyon (7 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? A popular hiking and rock climbing area nestled in the Franklin Mountains.
• Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
• Website: McKelligon Canyon

These parks and trails showcase the rugged beauty of the El Paso region, offering hiking, climbing, history, and stunning desert landscapes. Whether you're looking for mountain adventures, desert hikes, or wetlands, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast! 🚀🏜