Trails & Trailheads

The City of El Paso and Recreation Department has more than 220 parks located throughout the city. Most of these parks have a paved pathway within the park which can be used for walking, jogging, rollerblading and bicycling.

El Paso offers a variety of hiking options, featuring diverse terrain, distances, and difficulty levels to suit all outdoor enthusiasts.

Natural Trails: El Paso has a collection of natural surface trails, developed in collaboration with key partners such as Franklin Mountain State Park (FMSP) and the Frontera Land Alliance, providing unique opportunities for hiking /exploration.

Trailheads: Serve as convenient access points to the expansive network of natural trails within Franklin Mountain State Park (FMSP). The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department encourages all trail users to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations of FMSP to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Paved Trails: The City of El Paso has more than 300 parks. Many neighborhood parks feature a paved pathway for walking, jogging, rollerblading and bicycling. In addition, El Paso offers a range of paved trails that offer opportunities for longer distance exercise and even local travel. Popular paved linear trails include the Rio Grande River Park Trail and the Playa Drain Trail, both generously supported by the Paso del Norte Health Foundation.

Paved Trail Tips - Practice proper trail etiquette: bicyclists/rollerbladers YIELD to walkers/joggers. Please use a leash for pets and properly dispose of pet waste for the health and safety of the El Paso community!

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Trailheads

Essential Hiking Safety Tips

Plan Ahead: Check the weather and know your route. Be prepared for extreme conditions like heat, cold, wind, dust, rain.

Dress Appropriately: Wear sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate layers, and pack sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses).

Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water. Turn back before half of your supply is used.

Stay Connected: Bring a fully charged cell phone. Hike with others, or share your plans with someone if hiking solo.

Stay on Designated/Defined Trail: Do not wander off a trail.

For Advanced Hikes: Pack water (3 liters), high-energy food, first aid kit, navigation tools, multi-tool, emergency shelter, fire-starting kit, flashlight, and a locator device. Advanced Hiking tips from El Paso Fire Combined Search and Rescue Team (COMSAR).

El Paso's Climate

Located in a high desert region, El Paso is one of the sunniest cities in the U.S., with over 300 days of sunshine each year. While the weather is typically ideal for outdoor activities, occasional severe weather can impact your plans. Here’s what to expect by season:

Spring: Mild and comfortable days, but also the windiest time of year. Check for wind advisories before heading out.

Summer: Hot and dry. Plan activities in the early morning or evening, and bring water, sun protection, and know your limits. Brief but intense storms are possible.

Fall: Often the most pleasant season with low humidity, comfortable temperatures, and minimal wind.

Winter: Generally mild, with rare snowfall or storms. Layering is recommended for cooler days.

Report Maintenance & Vandalism

Report City Owned Parks and Urban Trail concerns such as Mowing, Trash Accumulation, Damaged Restrooms, Sprinkler Problems, and Refill of Pet Waste Bags through EP 311.