Easy hikes and walks around El Paso

If you're looking for an accessible introduction to the Chihuahuan Desert, the Lower Sunset Loop is an excellent choice. This easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hike, with 439 feet (134 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. You'll traverse varied terrain, from wide doubletrack to scenic cliffside singletrack, offering expansive views of western Texas and the Franklin Mountains. Keep an eye out for diverse desert flora like blooming cacti and ocotillo, and you might even spot jackrabbits or roadrunners.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this loop is suitable for beginners and families. While generally easy, some sections have loose rock, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Always bring enough water, especially when hiking in the desert. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring and summer after rain, when desert plants are in bloom, but winter offers cooler temperatures for a comfortable outing.

What makes the Lower Sunset Loop truly stand out is its ability to showcase the unique Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem in a relatively short distance. The diverse terrain, including arroyos and foothills, culminates in a stunning cliffside section often praised as one of West Texas's nicest trail segments. It's a great way to connect with nature and enjoy panoramic desert vistas without committing to a full-day trek.

The Upper Sunset and Tom Mays Trail Loop offers a quintessential Chihuahuan Desert experience, winding along rugged singletrack paths. You'll find yourself traversing ridgelines, with the terrain shifting from well-maintained sections to areas with loose rock, demanding attention to footing. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike, rated easy, still packs in 444 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, offering a good workout in just over an hour and 11 minutes.

Planning your visit means preparing for full sun exposure, as there is no shade along the route; always carry ample water. The trail is part of Franklin Mountains State Park, and its ridgeline location makes it particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, offering expansive views over El Paso and New Mexico. Parking is generally available at the Tom Mays Unit trailhead.

This route is notable for its exceptional desert vistas, allowing you to see both Old and New Mexico from various points. The unique Chihuahuan Desert plant life, including agaves, cacti, and yuccas, adds to the scenic beauty. It's a fantastic option for hikers seeking a relatively short, easy outing with high visual payoff within a significant urban park.

Explore the Chamizal National Memorial trails, an easy 1.8-mile (2.8 km) hike that takes about 43 minutes to complete, with a gentle 14 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain. The paths are a mix of paved and hard-packed red gravel, winding through gently rolling hills. You'll walk along the US-Mexico border, catching views of the Bridge of the Americas and passing historic Boundary Fence posts, with distant glimpses of the Franklin and Juarez Mountains from the Cordova Island Trail.

This accessible route is perfect for a relaxed outing, whether you're hiking, jogging, or cycling. The memorial offers comfort stations, restrooms, and water fountains, ensuring a convenient visit. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trails, provided they are on a leash, and no special permits are needed.

What truly sets this route apart is its historical significance, commemorating the peaceful resolution of a century-long border dispute. Beyond the Chamizal National Memorial hiking routes, the site also functions as a cultural center, featuring art galleries, a theater, and a museum that delves into the rich history of the U.S.-Mexico border.

The Thousand Steps Trail offers a concise yet immersive experience of the unique desert environment within Franklin Mountains State Park. You'll navigate a rocky, steep path that quickly elevates you above the surrounding landscape, revealing rugged desert scenery and the potential for vibrant wildflowers. This 0.7-mile (1.2 km) route, with its 249 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, provides a solid workout in just 22 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick, impactful hike.

When planning your visit, be mindful of the intense sun exposure and lack of shade characteristic of the desert. It's highly recommended to carry ample water, especially during warmer periods, and to consider hiking in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat. The trail is located within Franklin Mountains State Park, so be sure to confirm park operating hours and any entry requirements before heading out.

Beyond the scenic ascent, the Thousand Steps Trail also provides access to the B-36 Crash Overlook, where remnants from a 1953 aircraft tragedy can still be observed. This historical element adds a unique layer to the hike, offering a moment of reflection amidst the expansive views of the western valley. It's a short but memorable journey into both nature and history.