North Franklin Peak
Hike to the highest point in El Paso for breathtaking panoramic views. A challenging 7.2-mile trail in Franklin Mountains State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
North Franklin Peak
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the highest point in El Paso for breathtaking panoramic views. A challenging 7.2-mile trail in Franklin Mountains State Park.
"The views are great. It took my son and I 6 hours to walk up, then back to the car."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
The trail is rocky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety on the North Franklin Peak trail.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person. Hydrate the day before and during your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit of North Franklin Peak
Franklin Mountains State Park
Reach the highest point in El Paso for unparalleled panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Franklin Mountains State Park Trails
Franklin Mountains State Park
Explore the diverse network of trails, including the challenging North Franklin Peak trail, offering geological wonders.
Geological Formations
North Franklin Peak Trail
Discover unique rock formations and learn about the fascinating geology of the Franklin Mountains as you ascend.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Strenuous Climb
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
The trail is rocky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety on the North Franklin Peak trail.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person. Hydrate the day before and during your hike.
⏰ Plan for 4-6 Hours
The hike is strenuous and can take 4-6 hours round trip. Don't underestimate the time needed.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
Start early or hike in the late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and heat.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
The trail is rocky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety on the North Franklin Peak trail.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person. Hydrate the day before and during your hike.
⏰ Plan for 4-6 Hours
The hike is strenuous and can take 4-6 hours round trip. Don't underestimate the time needed.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
Start early or hike in the late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and heat.
⛰️ Check Park Gate Hours
Park gates lock at 5 PM. Ensure you complete your hike and exit before closing time.
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
Expect windy conditions at the summit. It can be quite breezy at the top.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the amazing, rewarding views from North Franklin Peak, calling it the highest point in El Paso. However, many emphasize that it's a very strenuous hike requiring excellent physical condition, proper footwear, and ample water, with some finding the rocky terrain challenging.
"You need to be in shape for this hike, this was my second time to the top. It took my son and I 6 hours to walk up, then back to the car. There was maybe an hour of play time in there. The views are great. Expect windy conditions. Read up on the geology of the mountains before you go. There are some neat rocks as you go up."
NewOrleans Food Lover
"Amazing climb, it took us 5 hours to go up and down the mountain, the views are amazing, you can see the entire borderplex.
The date I went was the end of January 2022 and I hope to go this coming month when the rainy season begins.
I highly recommend this place.
The trial that I took was call north Franklin mountain peak highest point of the Franklin mountains."
Fernando Tarin
"A very challenging hike. The park rangers say the hike takes around 4-6 hours. We took around 6.5 hours (round trip) and were completely exhausted as we did not take multiple breaks. It’s best enjoyed when you have 8 hours to complete this hike. Remember the park gates lock at 5pm and you definitely don’t want to be locked inside. Going down is much easier than going up. The hike was challenging with great views. Reminded us of our hike up to Guadalupe peak. The biggest difference was the abundance of stones we had to walk on. Walking on those stone was not fun. You definitely need a good pair of hiking shoes for this trail and plenty of water (minimum 3 liters per person). At the end of the trail, your entire body will be hurting but the views at the top are very rewarding!"
myron almeida
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
North Franklin Peak is located within Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, Texas. Access is typically via the park's main entrances. You'll then follow the designated trails towards the peak.
Yes, there are parking areas available within Franklin Mountains State Park. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as popular trailheads can fill up.
No, North Franklin Peak is only accessible by hiking. There are no roads leading to the summit.
The most common access point for the North Franklin Peak trail is from within Franklin Mountains State Park. Follow signs for the main trailheads.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Franklin Mountains State Park can be limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically an entrance fee for Franklin Mountains State Park. Check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for current fees and operating hours.
Park hours can vary, but generally, the park is open from dawn to dusk. However, remember that the park gates lock at 5 PM, so plan your hike accordingly.
While there's an entrance fee for the park, a separate permit is usually not required for hiking the North Franklin Peak trail itself, beyond the park entry fee.
Night hiking is generally not recommended and may be prohibited due to safety concerns and park closing times. Always adhere to park regulations.
Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for any potential discounts or passes that might apply to Franklin Mountains State Park entry.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Most hikers report taking between 4 to 6 hours for the round trip to North Franklin Peak. Some may take longer, especially if they stop for extended breaks.
The North Franklin Peak trail is considered strenuous. It involves significant elevation gain and a rocky, uneven surface. Good physical condition is required.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of El Paso, the surrounding Franklin Mountains, and the borderplex region. It's a truly rewarding vista.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the park entrance or trailhead areas, but not along the entire length of the North Franklin Peak trail. Plan accordingly.
Due to its strenuous nature and length, the North Franklin Peak trail is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Experienced hikers or those in good shape are better suited.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The 'golden hour' provides beautiful colors over the landscape.
Capture sweeping panoramic landscapes, unique rock formations, and the expansive city views. The summit offers incredible photo opportunities.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan on commercial photography or videography, check with park authorities.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a camera bag that can handle the rugged terrain.
The summit itself offers the most expansive views. Along the trail, keep an eye out for natural overlooks that provide different perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a less intense experience, focusing on the lower elevations of the park or visiting during cooler parts of the day can make the outing more enjoyable. The park's natural beauty can still be appreciated on easier trails, offering a great introduction to the desert environment for younger adventurers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once inside, the main expense is your own gear and provisions. Bringing your own water and snacks from a local grocery store will save you money compared to purchasing them near the park. This destination is ideal for travelers who prioritize experiences over expensive attractions. The challenging hike and the incredible views are a significant reward without a hefty price tag.
💑 Couples
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, making it a romantic outing with an incredible backdrop. Consider timing your hike to catch a sunrise or sunset from the peak for an even more magical experience.
The effort involved in reaching the summit makes the shared views and the quiet moments at the top feel particularly special. Remember to bring enough water and wear appropriate gear for a comfortable and safe adventure together. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The North Franklin Peak Trail Experience
Beyond the physical challenge, the trail offers a unique geological experience. You'll encounter fascinating rock formations and learn about the ancient history of the Franklin Mountains.
Reaching the summit of North Franklin Peak provides an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and offers breathtaking panoramic views of El Paso, the surrounding desert landscape, and even into Mexico.
Remember that the park gates close at 5 PM, so ensure you plan your descent to exit the park on time. Franklin Mountains State Park: An Urban Oasis
The park is a vital ecological area, home to diverse desert flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to see a variety of cacti, succulents, and hardy desert plants, as well as potential wildlife sightings.
Beyond hiking, the park is a popular spot for stargazing due to its relatively low light pollution compared to the city center.
It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, despite being surrounded by urban development. The park's accessibility makes it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty. 
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