The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park

Discover El Paso’s Desert Trails

One of El Paso’s most defining features is its vibrant outdoor community, offering scenic views, exciting adventures, and hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploration. With year-round sunshine and a mild climate, the Sun City is the perfect destination for enjoying the outdoors in every season. Start planning your next visit to El Paso by building an itinerary around the city’s most popular trails and immerse yourself in its striking desert landscapes.

Aztec Cave Trail | 1.9 miles | 3.05 km

The Aztec Cave Trail is a short, steep hike in Franklin Mountains State Park that climbs to a set of shallow caves with wide views over El Paso. This rewarding hike winds through classic Chihuahuan Desert terrain that ends with one of the best overlooks in the park, As you make your way along the moderately challenging trail, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains unfold, while the caves offer a unique glimpse into the area’s rugged geological history.

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Tin Mines Trail | 6 miles | 9.6 km

Spanning six miles round-trip, this moderate to difficult hike follows a clearly defined old jeep road with a steady, gradual ascent over the first three miles. At the top, hikers are rewarded with the chance to explore two historic mine shafts and the remnants of a smelter before making the return trip.

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Mundy’s Gap Trail | 3.9 miles | 6.2 km

Located within Franklin Mountains State Park, Mundy’s Gap is a 3.9-mile trail that offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers. The route winds through striking desert terrain and rewards the climb with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Rio Grande River. Ideal for active travelers seeking a memorable outdoor experience during their stay in El Paso.

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Lost Dog Trail | 1.4 miles | 2.25 km

Lost Dog Trail features a network of paths that wind through scenic desert landscapes at the base of the Franklin Mountains. Known for its wide, well-maintained routes and expansive views, the trail offers a peaceful hiking experience suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the region’s distinctive flora and quiet natural surroundings, making it an ideal option for a relaxed outdoor outing during your stay in El Paso.

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Ron Coleman Trail | 7.4 miles | 7.7 km

The Ron Coleman Trail is considered El Paso’s most famous and also its most challenging hike. Steep and difficult, with two sections requiring bouldering, it is not a trail for the faint of heart. However, those who finish Ron Coleman are rewarded with views of three states in two countries and the distinction of completing the most challenging trail in El Paso.

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