Whether you are an amateur or a professional photographer, capturing a stunning view is always a good feeling. You can post that beautiful vista on social media, or take the negatives to the darkroom and develop a stunning photograph you sell at your next exhibit. Here are four great places in El Paso to capture that perfect picture.
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Franklin Mountains State Park
Come enjoy almost 27,000 acres of protected parkland. With over 100 miles of hiking and biking trails, there is terrain to conquer for all skill levels. Hike to the top of North Franklin Peak. At over 7,000 feet high, you are sure to capture a stunning photo of the surrounding high desert mountains.
The park is never more than a 15-minute drive from the city, so pack a lunch, wear good shoes, go with a friend for safety, and enjoy this beautiful landscape. The park offers 14 campsites if you want to make a weekend of it. Guided tours for hiking and biking are available. Contact the park for more information.
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Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site
Historically, tribal people of the region considered Hueco Tanks a sacred sanctuary. People trekked from miles around to visit these marvelous rock hills. In its earliest days of use, the people came for the rainwater trapped in the natural rock basins called Huecos (“whey-coes”). Now people come to enjoy the hiking, biking, rock climbing, and the stunning views the park offers.
There are guided and self-guided tours available, and while the park is mostly used during the daytime hours, it does offer campsites for those looking to make it a weekend excursion. Either way, the rock formations offer some stunning photo opportunities, and the cave art will surely impress.
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Mount Cristo Rey
High atop Mount Cristo Rey is the large limestone cross of Jesus Christ. For generations, people have climbed the 2-mile trail as a religious pilgrimage. But it is not restricted to those with religious beliefs. Many go for the spectacular view. Bring your camera, because the cross and the view are sure to make a spectacular picture.
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La Plaza de los Lagartos
Known as the Pile o’ Gators statue, this landmark is located right in the heart of El Paso in the San Jacinto Plaza. Dating to the mid-1900s, the San Jacinto Plaza had a pond filled with alligators. For many years, the alligators entertained passers-by. Now the alligators are gone — the real ones anyway.
In 1993, artist Luis A. Jiménez Jr. unveiled his fiberglass polychrome sculpture of writhing alligators. The sculpture has since been fully restored and is protected by shade and a moat, so visitors will be able to enjoy the artwork for years to come. The statue is a favorite spot for locals to congregate, whether to meet up for an afternoon, or assemble and spread a group message to the people.
The next time you are looking for a good photo opportunity, here are four fantastic photo places to explore. What are you waiting for?
Image via garlandcannon | Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
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