Aztec Cave Trail
Hike to a unique cave in El Paso's Franklin Mountains for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and desert landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, softer light
Aztec Cave Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a unique cave in El Paso's Franklin Mountains for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and desert landscape.
"Fantastic views and a challenging hike make the Aztec Cave Trail a must-do in El Paso!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are a must for grip and support.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
El Paso can be hot! Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous uphill climbs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Aztec Cave
Summit of the trail
Discover the unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views from this natural wonder.
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Panoramic Mountain Views
Various points along the trail
Experience breathtaking vistas of the Franklin Mountains and El Paso cityscape.
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Challenging Incline
Steep sections of the trail
Test your endurance on the steep inclines, rewarded with incredible scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Preparation
Best Time to Visit & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are a must for grip and support.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
El Paso can be hot! Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous uphill climbs.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography enthusiasts. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are a must for grip and support.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
El Paso can be hot! Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous uphill climbs.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography enthusiasts. +1
⬆️ Assess Your Fitness
It's a moderate hike with steep sections; be prepared for a workout.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views and the unique experience of exploring the Aztec Cave. The challenging, steep nature of the trail is a common point of discussion, with many finding it a rewarding workout. While generally well-loved, some mention the intensity of the climb and the need for good preparation.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aztec Cave Trail is located in Franklin Mountains State Park, accessible via McKelligon Canyon in Northeast El Paso. It's about a 25-minute drive from Fort Bliss.
Yes, there is parking available at the trailhead in McKelligon Canyon. Arrive early on weekends as it can fill up.
Public transportation options to the trailhead are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the trail.
Yes, the Aztec Cave Trail is located within the beautiful Franklin Mountains State Park.
The trail is located in the Franklin Mountains, near McKelligon Canyon and Transmountain Road in West El Paso. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there are no specific reservations or tickets required for the Aztec Cave Trail itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the Franklin Mountains State Park website for any updates or potential entry fees for the park.
While specific fees for the Aztec Cave Trail are not mentioned, state parks often have day-use fees. It's recommended to check the official Texas State Parks website for current entry fees for Franklin Mountains State Park.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of Franklin Mountains State Park. Park hours may vary, so it's best to confirm with the park service.
Some sources suggest visiting the visitor center to register before starting your hike, especially if you are unfamiliar with the park.
The trail is typically open year-round, but weather conditions, especially extreme heat or occasional winter storms, can affect accessibility. Always check local conditions before your visit.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking lot to the caves is generally less than a mile, often cited as around 1.2 miles roundtrip.
It's considered a moderate trail with steep and rocky sections, requiring a decent level of fitness.
You'll be treated to fantastic panoramic views of the Franklin Mountains and the El Paso cityscape.
While short, the trail's steepness and rocky terrain can be risky for very young children. Close supervision is advised.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the Aztec Cave Trail, making it a great option for hiking with pets.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
The cave itself, the panoramic overlooks of El Paso, and the rugged mountain landscapes are prime photo opportunities.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the stunning views, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more flexibility.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other hikers and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the scale of the cave and its surroundings, or use a tripod for low-light shots inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a child carrier if you have toddlers. The cave itself is an exciting destination, and the panoramic views offer a great reward for the effort. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make sure everyone wears appropriate footwear. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring other, flatter trails within Franklin Mountains State Park if available, or focus on the initial part of the Aztec Cave Trail where the incline is less severe. Always prioritize safety and know your children's limits.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be mindful of the hot rocks during warmer months, which can be uncomfortable or even harmful to your dog's paws. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are best to avoid the peak heat. Always clean up after your pet and ensure they are well-behaved around other hikers and their dogs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The unique rock formations within the cave itself provide interesting textures and shapes for close-up shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and the scale of the cave. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions inside the cave or for capturing sharp images during dawn and dusk. Be prepared for a bit of a scramble to get to the best vantage points, but the photographic rewards are well worth the effort.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Aztec Cave Trail
The trail is approximately 1.2 miles roundtrip, with an elevation gain of around 400 feet. Despite its moderate rating, the steepness can make it feel more demanding, particularly on hot days. It's crucial to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking gear.
+1While the hike itself is the main attraction, the destination – the Aztec Cave – offers a unique geological formation and a fantastic vantage point. The views from the cave and the surrounding areas are often described as breathtaking, providing panoramic vistas of the El Paso cityscape and the vast desert landscape.
+1Best Practices for Hiking in Franklin Mountains State Park
Footwear is another critical consideration. The trails in the Franklin Mountains are often rocky and uneven. Wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction will prevent slips and provide ankle support, making your hike safer and more comfortable.
Timing your hike can significantly impact your experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for avoiding the intense midday sun and heat. These times also offer the best lighting for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour colors. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
The History and Geology of the Aztec Caves
The name 'Aztec Cave' might allude to historical indigenous presence in the region, though specific archaeological findings related to the Aztecs directly at this site are not commonly highlighted in visitor information. The area's natural beauty and unique rock formations are the primary draws for modern visitors.
For those interested in the natural history, the Franklin Mountains State Park offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Chihuahuan Desert. Understanding the geological forces that shaped the landscape can add another layer of appreciation to the hiking experience.
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