It’s pretty out here.
When you arrive in our region, you’ll quickly notice the unmistakable vibration in the air and experience the power of the Chihuahuan Desert. The wide-open vistas will expand your vision of both the land and yourself. You’ll feel the spiritual and emotional radiation of the mountains surrounding us. You’ll see the views of vastness that inspire everyone who takes the time to truly pay attention.
This is a land of endless tales and adventures. A place where simply looking outside evokes images of Billy the Kid, Pancho Villa, John Wesley Hardin, and every hero and outlaw in between. Look around long enough and you’ll find yourself daydreaming of your own Southwest excursion. Hang around long enough and you’ll undoubtedly find yourself on one.
This is where you can rock climb in the desert sun and ski down snowcapped peaks on the same day. Where you can take a day trip to five of the most awe-inspiring national parks this country has to offer. And where 300+ days of sunshine means world-class bouldering, mountain biking, trail running, paragliding and more are at your disposal every month of the year.
There's no denying our region’s geography is ideal for work and play. It’s time you come see why.
Franklin Mountains
Franklin Mountains State Park boasts nearly 27,000 acres of serene canyons, towering peaks, and scenic views — and it’s right in the center of El Paso. With mountain biking, cave exploration, mine tours, paragliding, and everything else under the sun, the Franklin Mountains will satisfy even the most adventurous of thrill-seekers.
White Sands
Beyond its 275 miles of gleaming, undulating gypsum sand, White Sands National Park has an abundance of offerings to match its beauty. From backcountry camping to bicycling to hiking and sledding, the dunes are a glorious and picturesque playground. Embark on the 16-mile Dunes Drive that takes you through the park and prepare to stop along the way. You’ll want to capture it all. Trust us.
Ruidoso
A short two and a half hours north of El Paso is another well-kept secret. Year-round, Ruidoso is where the great outdoors are at their greatest. Fish, swim, stand-up paddle board during the summer. Carve the mountain to your heart’s content at Ski Apache during the winter. If you’re at-home in nature, one visit to this glorious part of New Mexico and you may never want to leave.
Hueco Tanks
Natural rock basins (huecos) are where these impressive formations derive their name. Visitors are encouraged to walk and hike on their own or take a guided tour. Hike. Bird watch. Rock climb. Then, if you’re camping and in the park later in the day, after the sun has set, find the perfect spot to perch and take in the stars. People come from near and far for just that reason.
Red Sands
Just to the southeast of White Sands National Park is a smaller, more deep red clay area known as Red Sands. Operated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it offers the ultimate off-road vehicle experience. If you want to blow off a little steam or kick up a little dust, this is most certainly the place to do it.
Carlsbad Caverns
Beneath the surface of the Chihuahuan Desert lie over 100 caves filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and mirrored glass pooling water. They are the Carlsbad Caverns. Explore them individually or as a group, and maybe you’ll discover a few things about yourself and the world around you as you trek closer to the center of the Earth.
Mission Trail
Dating back 400 years, the most historic area of El Paso is known as the Mission Trail. It is comprised of the San Elizario Presidio Chapel, the Socorro Mission, the Ysleta Mission, and an assortment of galleries, museums, and eating establishments as well. Take time to step off the beaten path and get a taste of days gone by.