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Franklin Mountains State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,937 Google reviews · Running trail in El Paso, Texas · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 100 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
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.
24,247 acres of scenic desert offering climbing, hiking, wildlife, camping & views.
What runners say about Franklin Mountains State Park
“The trails are well-maintained and not too difficult, making them accessible for all skill levels.”
“The views from the trails are simply breathtaking, with stunning landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.”
“It has the most breathtaking, relaxing views and the hike paths are clearly marked and clean.”
“Whether you’re hiking alone for some peaceful solitude or bringing friends and family along for an adventure, this place offers the perfect escape from the city.”
“There are difficult trails, there are medium trails, and there are easy trails, so no matter what your background or experience level is, there is a place for you to hike here.”
We had so much fun. When you get in there, you have to stop at the main building. They were super nice, they gave us a map, gave us directions, and answered questions we had. We set up a National Parks account. We had to use the bathrooms there, they were so clean, I was impressed.
Franklin Mountains State Park is an absolute gem in El Paso! The views from the trails are simply breathtaking, with stunning landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.
I say wow...the most beautiful state park in the entire state so far for me. The landscape, picnic tables , restrooms are very clean. Everything are nice inside out. View of the mountain behind is a plus. Very relaxing. A must stop by place. The staff are awesome too. You can tell they love what they are doing.
We are in an RV and only planned to stay one night due to no hookups. We wound up staying three because this place is so awesome. We were literally the only people in the park after 5pm when the gate shut. What an incredible experience. The hike to the Aztec Caves at dusk- INCREDIBLE!
Trail conditions & character
“The views from the trails are simply breathtaking, with stunning landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.”
“Family fun outside, enjoying nature, a hike (50 minutes climb/hike to Aztec cavws) only 5bux to park.”
“The parking pass is only $5 per person over 12 years old and the yearly pass was only $70 which covers one whole car of people per visit.”
“Whether you’re hiking alone for some peaceful solitude or bringing friends and family along for an adventure, this place offers the perfect escape from the city.”
“We had to use the bathrooms there, they were so clean, I was impressed.”
Plan your run at Franklin Mountains State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance100 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitetpwd.texas.gov
- Phone+1 915-444-9100
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 6:30 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 6:30 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 6:30 am–5 pm |
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