Things to Do

The Wyler Aerial Tramway at Franklin Mountains State Park is on 195.742 acres of rugged mountain and rock formations on the east side of the Franklin Mountains.

The tramway and grounds are closed due to safety concerns. TPWD is working with local partners to determine the tramway’s future. Learn more on the Tramway Updates page.

Park grounds are only open for guided programs; check our Events page for the schedule.

Driving the paved road that snakes up the east side of the Franklin Mountains from the intersection of McKinley and Alabama streets is half the fun. You’ll arrive at a parking area that sits at an elevation of 4,692 feet. The view of El Paso, to the east, is magnificent. Here you can also admire the beauty of cacti gardens.

From Ranger Peak, 5,632 feet above sea level, you’ll see 7,000 square miles encompassing three states and two nations and the vast and stark beauty of the southwest.

Take a virtual tour with our interactive trails map.

Teachers: This is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Birding

Birding in the El Paso area will take one into and through the Franklin Mountains and the Hueco Tanks State Historic Site. The natural flyway that is the El Paso area brings a large variety of bird species to the area.

Local groups are taking advantage of this natural flyway by rehabilitating the remains of local bosques (wetlands), adding to the available bird habitat in the area. The local Audubon Society has created an excellent birding area known as Feather Lakes.