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Franklin Mountains State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 72 Google reviews · Running trail in El Paso, Texas · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Franklin Mountains State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking area offering shade trees, sunset views, and a grilling area.
What runners say about Franklin Mountains State Park
“Franklin Mountains State Park is a wonderful place to see God's beautiful and amazing creation!”
“*No shade unfortunately so definitely preferred to hike Before 10 AM or after 5 PM (Thunderbird Trail is the name).”
An amazing state park in the middle of El Paso! There's no shortage of trails to choose from with every level of difficulty represented. No matter what trail you choose though, the views will be amazing.
My wife and I enjoy every Sunday using the trails on both sides of the mountains. Agave Loop, Mundy's Gap, North Franklin Peak, Lower and Upper Sunset, Thousand Steps, Pipeline, Schaefer Shuffle, Aztec cave, Tin mines, and more ....... Everything you want from easy to advance expert trails.
I spend a lot of time in the Franklin Mountains. It's a great area to hike, bike, and be out in nature.
Excellent cardio/leg workout especially if going off any trail and hiking to the ridges/various summits within the mountains. Some areas require rock climbing to reach the top. Coming back down can sometimes be tougher/more treacherous so proceed with caution. Plan ahead. Take plenty of water.
Trail conditions & character
“Not only does it take 6 minutes to expose yourself to the views of WestSide, Santa Teresa and Mexico Bible Quote.”
“*No shade unfortunately so definitely preferred to hike Before 10 AM or after 5 PM (Thunderbird Trail is the name).”
Plan your run at Franklin Mountains State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
Running trails near El Paso
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Thunderbird Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 14 reviews
Mammoth Rock
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Popular spot for hiking with challenging sections and scenic views.
Ron Coleman Trailhead
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Park featuring hiking trails with caves, scenic views and mountain backdrops.
McKelligon Canyon Park
4.9 ★★★★★ 10 reviews
Resler Canyon
4.3 ★★★★☆ 77 reviews
Nature preserve offering kid-friendly hikes, though it's currently closed for maintenance.