Nestled in the foothills of the gorgeous Franklin Mountains, El Paso is a vibrant and diverse community with an endless amount of incredible outdoor attractions and plenty of year-round fun for all ages.

El Paso is a land of countless tales and adventures. A place where simply looking outside evokes images of Billy the Kid, Pancho Villa, John Wesley Hardin, and every hero and outlaw in between. Look around long enough and you’ll find yourself daydreaming of your own Southwest excursion. Hang around long enough and you’ll undoubtedly find yourself on one. 300+ days of sunshine means world-class bouldering, mountain biking, trail running and more are at your disposal every month of the year. If you enjoy being outdoors and want to explore one of the most unique places in Texas, El Paso is the perfect place to be. 

Gateway To Four National Parks

With the largest international airport in the region, El Paso is strategically located in the center of four, jaw-dropping national parks; Big Bend National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe National Park and White Sands National Park. Each of these amazing national treasures offers visitors the opportunity to discover why El Paso is known as America’s outdoor adventure zone.

Franklin Mountains State ParkPhoto courtesy of Destination El Paso

Franklin Mountains State Park

Franklin Mountains State Park, one of the largest urban state park in the nation, boasts nearly 27,000 acres of serene canyons, towering peaks, and scenic views — and it’s right in the center of El Paso. With mountain biking, cave exploration, mine tours, paragliding, and everything else under the sun, the Franklin Mountains will satisfy even the most adventurous of thrill-seekers. If you’re looking for a night under the stars, tent and RV campsites are available by reservation. Take on the 100+ miles of trail and be sure to bring a camera, because the view from 7,000 feet above sea level is spectacular.

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

Ancient pictographs. World-class bouldering. Panoramic desert views. People have been making the trip to Hueco Tanks for thousands of years. It’s time you do the same. Hike rugged trails while you keep an eye out for any of the hundreds of species of birds that live in the area. Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site is open year-round with extended hours on the weekends in the summer. 

El Paso Mission TrailsPhoto courtesy of Destination El Paso

El Paso Mission Trail

Experience El Paso’s early history when you explore the El Paso Mission Trail, home to two 17th-century missions and a chapel built in the late 1800’s. The oldest, Ysleta Mission, was constructed in 1682 and is the oldest continuously operating parish in Texas. Marvel at the white adobe-walled structures on the trail, and then see the displays in museums like the Tigua Indian Cultural Center and Los Portales Museum and Information Center. In addition to its attractions, the El Paso Mission Trail hosts cultural festivals throughout the year.

Red SandsPhoto courtesy of Destination El Paso

Red Sands

A popular off-road desert riding area in East El Paso, Red Sands has been an exciting place to hang for over 40 years. Approximately 21 square miles in size and located just west of Hueco Tanks State Park, Red Sands is comprised of both private and public lands, featuring rolling sand dunes, hills, compact dirt trails and everything else you’d want in an off-roading adventure. Look long enough and you’ll find plenty of ancient fossils, as well as artifacts like arrowheads, pottery and more.

Rocketbuster BootsPhoto courtesy of Destination El Paso

More Than Just Outdoors

If indoor adventures is more your style, El Paso has a wide range of hotels, restaurants, boutiques, impressive imports as well as factory outlets that cater to every taste imaginable. El Paso is celebrated world wide as the boot capital of the world, home to Lucchese, Rocketbuster, and Tony Lama boots. Whether you’re looking for boots off-the-shelf or hand crafted by the finest artisans, El Paso has the perfect fit for every budget.