Scenic Drive | El Paso

Scenic Drive: A Breathtaking View of El Paso and Beyond

Scenic Drive is one of the most popular and picturesque routes in El Paso, Texas. Situated in Franklin Mountains State Park, this winding road offers stunning panoramic views of the city of El Paso, the surrounding desert landscape, and beyond into Mexico and New Mexico. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, taking a drive along Scenic Drive is a must for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the desert and the vastness of the region.

1. Overview

Scenic Drive is a two-lane road that climbs the southern slopes of the Franklin Mountains, providing elevated views of the city and the expansive desert below. The drive offers both short, easy access to breathtaking views and the opportunity to stop at scenic lookouts along the way.

The road itself is part of Transmountain Road (or U.S. Route 62/180), but its section through Franklin Mountains State Park is particularly renowned for its scenic beauty. The route is open year-round, and it is especially popular during sunrise and sunset, when the landscape is bathed in vibrant hues.

2. Scenic Viewpoints and Stops

As you drive along Scenic Drive, there are several viewpoints and overlooks where visitors can stop, park, and take in the views. Some of the most notable stops include:

East Scenic Drive Overlook: One of the first scenic pull-offs as you drive up the mountain. From here, visitors can see downtown El Paso, Fort Bliss, and the Rio Grande Valley. It's a fantastic spot for cityscape photography and to take in the beauty of the desert and surrounding landscape.

West Scenic Drive Overlook: Located closer to the Tom Mays Unit of the park, this viewpoint offers a stunning view of the Chihuahuan Desert. Here, visitors can also see the Mesilla Valley of New Mexico, as well as parts of Juarez, Mexico. The views stretch for miles, making this an excellent place for photography, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the serenity of the desert.

Ranger Peak: At the top of Scenic Drive is Ranger Peak, which stands at 5,632 feet in elevation. This spot offers the most expansive and breathtaking views of the region. It’s the highest point along Scenic Drive and offers sweeping vistas of the entire city of El Paso, Ciudad Juárez, the Franklin Mountains, and the Chihuahuan Desert. Though the Wyler Aerial Tramway once carried visitors to Ranger Peak, Scenic Drive remains the best way to reach this incredible viewpoint.

3. Activities Along Scenic Drive

While Scenic Drive itself is best known for its scenic beauty, there are a variety of activities that visitors can enjoy in and around this area:

Photography: The road provides unparalleled opportunities for both daylight and nighttime photography. At night, the city lights of El Paso sparkle below, and the starlit desert sky offers incredible images. The Golden Hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) is especially beautiful along this route.

Hiking: Scenic Drive provides access to some of the hiking trails of Franklin Mountains State Park. Trails such as the Ron Coleman Trail and the Transmountain Trail start along the road and take visitors deeper into the mountains for more adventurous hikes.

Sightseeing: Whether you’re just passing through or have time to stop, the drive offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, from the rugged mountain terrain to the vast desert below.

4. Best Times to Visit

The drive can be enjoyed at any time of year, but early mornings and late afternoons are the most popular times for visitors due to the milder temperatures and the stunning lighting during sunrise and sunset. Additionally, these times offer cooler conditions, especially in the warmer months of the year when temperatures in the desert can soar.

During spring, the desert landscape is in bloom, and visitors may be able to see wildflowers and vibrant greenery along the way. Fall also brings cooler temperatures and clearer skies, making it a pleasant time to take a leisurely drive.

5. Access and Visitor Information

Location: The drive begins at the eastern side of El Paso and ascends through Franklin Mountains State Park. It can be accessed from Transmountain Road (U.S. Route 62/180) as it climbs from the city up into the Franklin Mountains.

Hours: Scenic Drive is open year-round. However, some sections of the road may be closed temporarily during bad weather or maintenance. It’s always a good idea to check road conditions before your visit.

Cost: Access to Scenic Drive is free, but there may be fees for specific park activities or trail use within Franklin Mountains State Park.

Safety: Though the road is well-maintained, it's important to drive carefully, as the mountain route has sharp curves and steep grades. Always ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountain driving, especially if you're visiting during the winter months when road conditions may be impacted by snow or ice.

6. Nearby Attractions

While Scenic Drive itself is a beautiful experience, it also leads to several other popular spots in and around the park:

Franklin Mountains State Park: A short detour off Scenic Drive provides access to a vast network of hiking trails, campgrounds, and natural areas where visitors can further explore the desert and mountains.

McKelligon Canyon: This scenic canyon area offers even more opportunities for hiking and exploration.

El Paso: Once you reach the bottom of Scenic Drive, the city offers a wide array of restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions.

In conclusion, Scenic Drive is one of El Paso’s hidden gems. It offers not only fantastic views but also a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to take photos, hike, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of the desert, Scenic Drive offers an unforgettable experience.