The best walks and hikes in El Paso County
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516
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Hiking in El Paso County offers diverse desert landscapes, centered around the prominent Franklin Mountains. This region features rugged wilderness, unique rock formations, and desert vegetation, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Trails often traverse rocky hills and canyons, with some routes offering views of the Rio Grande River and rare desert wetlands. The area's natural features create a distinct environment for hikers.
Best hiking trails in El Paso County
- The most popular hiking route is Tin Mine to Scenic Road to Rock Shock to Lazy Cow Loop, a 9.5 miles (15.3 km) trail that takes 4 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route leads to the site of former tin mines, offering historical exploration alongside desert views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Palisades Canyon Loop, a moderate 4.8 miles (7.7 km) path. This trail features a scenic overlook through a dip in the mountains, providing panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
- Local hikers also love the Lost Dog, El Refri, Brujos Garden, and Lechuguilla Loop, a 5.2 miles (8.3 km) trail leading through desert terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Hiking in El Paso County is defined by the Franklin Mountains, desert terrain with unique rock formations, and wetland ecosystems. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
- The routes in El Paso County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore El Paso County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4
hikers
6.19km
02:23
670m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
10.6km
03:17
290m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
4.33km
01:18
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
8.30km
02:18
150m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.71km
02:19
260m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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2
hikers
15.3km
04:15
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.84km
00:43
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.17km
00:23
80m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
33.1km
08:20
40m
40m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.46km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is a paved path and a dirt road that follows along the Rio Grande here. You can make the route longer or shorter by going further (or shorter) down the trail. This is a popular spot for runners, walkers, and bikers, and it's best to get on it early before the sun is up for the day.
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At an elevation of 7,192 feet, North Franklin Mountain is the highest peak in the Franklin Mountains. Couple that statistic with the fact that the route to gain the peak is a little less burly than the route to South Franklin, and you have a recipe for a busier trail. You still probably won't see a ton of other runners and hikers once you make it up to the ridge.
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The Thousand Steps Trail is a popular hiking trail on the outskirts of Franklin Mountains State Park. It's easy to connect this trail to other nearby trails to make it a longer run. It's a rocky trail but easy to follow. It's definitely steep in places so be ready for some steep uphill hiking and steep descents!
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The Thousand Steps Trail is a popular hiking trail on the outskirts of Franklin Mountains State Park. It's easy to connect this trail to other nearby trails or just do it as a standalone hike. It's a rocky trail but easy to follow. It's definitely steep in places so only go uphill if you feel comfortable doing the same trail downhill!
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The intersection for the trail to the North Franklin Mountain Summit is marked by a sign. North Franklin Mountain is the highest point in El Paso County. You can choose to continue on, or turn back toward the trailhead at this point. The Mundy's Gap trail provides a great opportunity to view the eastern and western sides of the Franklin Mountains and native desert vegetation without being strenuous.
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The summit of North Franklin Mountain is the highest point in El Paso County at an elevation of 7,192 ft (2,192 m) above sea level. From the top, hikers and climbers enjoy views of the stunning desert scapes of Texas, New Mexico, and northern Mexico.
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No lip headed downhill, 3” lip headed uphill. Lots of fun
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in El Paso County?
El Paso County offers nearly 30 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a diverse range of options, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs through the desert landscape.
What types of terrain can I expect on hikes in El Paso County?
Hiking in El Paso County is primarily defined by the rugged desert terrain of the Franklin Mountains. You'll encounter unique rock formations, desert vegetation like cacti, and rocky hills. Some trails also offer views of the Rio Grande River and lead through rare wetland ecosystems.
Are there any easy, family-friendly trails in El Paso County?
Yes, El Paso County has several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Ascarate Lake Loop is a relatively flat path around the lake, ideal for a relaxed walk. The Thousand Steps Trail loop in Franklin Mountains State Park is also rated as easy and offers scenic views.
What are some challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
For those seeking a challenge, the North Franklin Mountain Summit trail offers significant elevation gain and panoramic views. Another demanding option is the South Franklin Mountain via Ron Coleman Trail, known for its strenuous ascent.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in El Paso County?
El Paso, known as 'Sun City,' enjoys around 200 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for year-round hiking. The mild climate and warm temperatures are ideal for outdoor exploration, though cooler months might be more comfortable for longer, more strenuous hikes.
Are there any trails that offer historical points of interest?
Absolutely. The El Paso Tin Mines Trail leads to the site of America's only former operating tin mines, offering a unique blend of historical exploration and desert views. Additionally, areas like Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site provide insights into ancient cultures with pictographs and unique rock formations.
Can I find any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are several loop trails available. The Thousand Steps Trail loop in Franklin Mountains State Park is a popular choice. Another option is the Ranger Peak Loop via Thousand Steps Trail, offering a more extensive circular experience.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking?
Many trails offer access to significant landmarks. You can hike to the South Franklin Mountain summit or Ranger Peak for stunning views. The Thousand Steps Trail and McKelligon Canyon Road are also popular points of interest within the Franklin Mountains State Park. Don't miss the Aztec Cave or the historic Tin Mines.
What do other hikers enjoy most about El Paso County trails?
The trails in El Paso County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning desert landscapes, panoramic mountain views, and the unique experience of hiking through rugged wilderness with diverse desert vegetation.
Are there any trails suitable for birdwatching or nature observation?
Yes, the Rio Bosque Wetlands Park offers smooth walking paths along the river, making it an excellent spot for nature hikes and birdwatching. This rare desert wetland is home to diverse bird species and native plants, providing a unique ecological experience.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Rio Grande River?
Yes, the Rio Grande Riverpark and Trail System features paved multi-use trails directly along the river. These trails provide scenic views of the water and the distant Franklin Mountains, offering a different perspective of the region's natural beauty.
What is the typical duration for a moderate hike in El Paso County?
Moderate hikes in El Paso County can vary in duration depending on the specific trail and your pace. For example, the Mundy's Gap Trail, a 4.1-mile path, typically takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. Longer moderate trails like the Lost Dog Trail, at 6.3 miles, usually take around 2 hours 50 minutes.
Most popular routes in El Paso County
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