Franklin Mountains (Texas) Mountains

The Franklin Mountains are a north-south trending mountain range that rises within the city limits of El Paso, Texas, and forms a prominent urban backdrop. The range reaches a high point of about 7,192 feet at North Franklin Mountain.

The mountains are composed largely of Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rocks that were uplifted during tectonic events; they have long provided a strategic landmark and natural barrier for the El Paso region. Modern use shifted toward recreation and conservation with the establishment of the state park to protect large tracts of the range.

The range lies inside and immediately north of the city of El Paso, visible across the metropolitan area and bordering the Rio Grande valley to the west and south. The park and principal trailheads are reached from roads within El Paso.

• Extent: The range runs roughly north-south for about 23 miles and rises dramatically above the city of El Paso, making it visible from much of the metropolitan area.
• Best time to visit: Best light and views are at sunrise and sunset; several short trails and lookouts provide panoramic views over El Paso and the Rio Grande valley.

What to See#

• Ranger Peak: Ranger Peak sits near the central spine of the range and provides many of the park’s most accessible viewpoints and trailheads.
• North Franklin Mountain: North Franklin Mountain is the range high point at about 7,192 feet and is a frequent objective for hikers and climbers seeking panoramic views over El Paso.
• Franklin Mountains State Park: Franklin Mountains State Park protects much of the range and comprises over 24,000 acres of desert and mountain terrain within the city limits of El Paso.

Franklin Mountains State Park is accessed from multiple trailheads around El Paso; the main access roads are along Transmountain Road (Loop 375) and N. Zaragoza. Several park entrances have parking and trail access; consult the Texas Parks & Wildlife or the City of El Paso for maps and closures.

• Approach the Franklin Mountains via established trails within Franklin Mountains State Park to avoid private land conflicts.
• Sunset from the peaks is spectacular; plan a late afternoon arrival and a safe descent with headlamps if staying until dusk.
• Stick to marked climbs-some slopes are loose and route finding can be deceptively tricky.