Explore the Majestic Franklin Mountains State Park
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, Texas, with trails, wildlife, and stunning desert vistas.
Franklin Mountains State Park, located in El Paso, Texas, is a breathtaking natural refuge offering stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities for tourists. With over 24 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the desert landscape, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Franklin Mountains State Park
- Tom Mays Park Access Rd, El Paso, Texas, 79911, US
- +1915-444-9100
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and sun protection, as some trails can be rocky and exposed.
- Check for any park alerts or trail closures before your visit for the best experience.
- Consider visiting during the spring to experience the park's vibrant wildflower blooms.
Getting There
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Public Bus
Start at the El Paso downtown bus terminal (located at 700 San Antonio Ave, El Paso, TX 79901). Take Route 2 (Mesa) towards Westside. You will want to ride the bus until you reach the stop at Mesa St @ Doniphan Dr. After getting off, walk to the intersection of Doniphan Dr and Tom Mays Park Access Rd. Continue walking on Tom Mays Park Access Rd for approximately 1 mile, and you will arrive at the entrance of Franklin Mountains State Park.
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Bicycle
If you are near downtown El Paso, start at San Jacinto Plaza and head northwest on Texas Ave. Continue onto Oregon St and follow it until you reach the intersection with Doniphan Dr. Turn left onto Doniphan Dr and continue until you reach Tom Mays Park Access Rd. Turn right onto Tom Mays Park Access Rd and bike for about 1 mile to reach Franklin Mountains State Park.
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Walking
From downtown El Paso, start at the El Paso Museum of Art (located at 1 Arts Festival Plaza, El Paso, TX 79901). Walk west on Main St towards W San Antonio Ave. Continue on Main St until you reach the intersection with Oregon St. Turn left onto Oregon St and walk north until you reach Doniphan Dr. Turn right onto Doniphan Dr and walk until you reach Tom Mays Park Access Rd. Finally, turn left onto Tom Mays Park Access Rd, and after about a mile, you will reach Franklin Mountains State Park.
Discover more about Franklin Mountains State Park
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Old Glory Memorial
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Bob-O's Family Fun Center
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Fort Bliss National Cemetery
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Castner Range National Monument
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El Paso Museum of Archaeology
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National Border Patrol Museum
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Geocache
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Sue Young Park
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White Spur Park
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Essential places to dine
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Ripe Eatery
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Corralito Steak House (5800 Doniphan)
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Magic Bistro
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Mi Piaci Restaurant
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Great American Steakhouse
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
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Nick's Store
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Tool Box
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Sun City Bar & Events Center
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