Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, TX, is massive with almost 27,000 acres, and offers the ultimate experience for an active nature lover! We’ve put together a few outdoor tips to make your visit to the park safe and pleasurable.
Hiking and Mountain Biking
If you want to go hiking or mountain biking, there are over 100 miles of trails that run through almost 27,000 acres of the park. The trails range in levels of difficulty and can be completed in a day: it depends on your level of fitness, the weather, and your pace. Make sure you have everything you need to be safe on the trail!
Plan your trip
Get a good map of the park and the trail so you can study it carefully. Take a compass with you, as you cannot always rely on a GPS.
Wear the Right Clothing
Pack loose clothing made of natural fibers. It’s best to wear layered clothing and long-sleeved shirts and trousers to slow down dehydration. Make sure your footwear is comfortable, and take a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drink lots of water before you venture out, and do not forget to take at least one gallon of water with you. When your water bottle is half empty, head back.
Essential Items to Take on a Hike
- Map and compass
- Plenty of water
- Emergency contact information
- A small first aid kit
- Sun protection
- Warm sweater
- Lighter or matches
- Small knife
- Nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars
Rock Climbing
You can rock climb at McKelligon Canyon or Sneed's Cory for a shorter, quick climb. You must bring your own climbing equipment. To enjoy your climb, make sure you bring the right equipment for the conditions in the park.
Climbing Equipment
- Strong climbing ropes
- Harnesses
- Carabiners
- Helmets
- Chalk
- Chalk bag
- Quickdraws or extenders
- Belay devices
- Lots of climbing tape
- Spring-loaded camming devices
- Good rock-climbing shoes
Camping
There are great, primitive campsites at Tom Mays Unit. The sites do not have water or electricity, so make sure you bring enough water for drinking and cooking. Here are a few tips to help you make the best of camping in the park:
Make Sure You Sleep Well
Except for taking the right tent for the conditions, also bring a pillow and a sleeping pad along. After a day of outdoor activities, you want to sleep as comfortably as possible.
Outdoor Cooking
Pack plenty of matches and a lighter, and do not forget cooking utensils. Bring along firelighters, charcoal, and firewood.
The Right Food
If you are going to be very active, add fruit, peanut butter, granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and some energy bars to your supplies for sufficient nutrition.
Handy Gadgets
The campsites do not have electricity, so bring along a flashlight, a headlamp, and lanterns, and plenty of batteries.
Stay Safe and Protected
Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, chapstick, a compass, and a map of the park and the trails
By following these tips, you can enjoy all the great outdoor adventures in the park! Preparation is key for a fun-filled day making new memories!
