The Most Scenic Running And Cycling Trails In El Paso, TX
Here in the Sun City, aka El Paso, Texas, you can go about anywhere to go running and cycling. However, this healthy lifestyle can be tough when the weather changes, resulting in more visits to the gym. To avoid feeling reluctant when hopping on a bike and running on a treadmill at the gym, most people choose to take their workout routines outside.
Trans-Mountain State Park
Over at the Franklin Mountains, the Trans-Mountain Highway takes you away from the desert scenery of El Paso and brings you to a 10.3-mile trail along the mountain. You can enter the trail from the east side and the west side. It is perfect for any runner and cyclist who wants to challenge their mind and bodies on this epic path. Not only does this road make for great exercise, but it also gives you the opportunity to run on the trails around the mountain. Although it might be intimidating when first approaching it, the accomplishment of completing this path will definitely outweigh the first initial fears.
Scenic Drive
When traveling to Scenic Drive, you can run or cycle throughout the neighborhood while gazing at the gorgeously designed homes. This area is a perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life but still be a part of it as they travel either by cycling or running. At this location, you are able to see a jaw-dropping view of El Paso and Juarez while taking in the exquisite historic homes of Manhattan Heights.
Horizon City Trails
The Horizon City Trails was recently built on Horizon Blvd outside of El Paso. This growing city located within EP city limits has continued to change over the years, and with this freshly built addition, it has brought joy to the citizens. From the moment it was nearly finished, you could spot people promoting their healthy lifestyle whether it was running, walking with family and pets or just riding their bike along the trail; it never failed to see people enjoying the path. This beautifully designed trail welcomes runners, walkers and cyclists that want to stray away from the typical desert route.
Chamizal National Memorial
The Chamizal National Memorial is typically the place where high school cross country meets take their athletes for the most crucial and hardest race before their highest ranked race. This is because the Chamizal is one of the toughest trails in El Paso that can be used for races. It is also a haven for those who seek a peaceful bike ride within the Chamizal. Come and venture to the Chamizal either for a nice run or a bike ride on any of the red gravel trails.
Ascarate Park
Ascarate Park is an ideal place for walkers, cyclists, and runners since it is the largest park in El Paso. Altogether, the park has 448 acres with 18 acres of it being the Ascarate Lake, where visitors can enjoy picnicking and take a pedal boat out onto the lake. The surrounding manmade lake gives athletes and visitors something to look at while strolling along the trails. The park is unlike any others in the El Paso area because it does not look like any other place in the city.
McKelligon Canyon
McKelligon Canyon can be found over on the southeastern side of the Franklin Mountains where it is encircled by the desert canyon walls. The entrance of McKelligon can be used either for running, walking or biking. The 2.4-mile trail within McKelligon gives visitors a variety of adventures from rock climbing, bouldering, hiking and even events at the amphitheater – it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The temperature here is also cooler, making it a great place to escape the desert heat and train for marathons.
Pat O’Rourke Memorial Trail
Over at the Pat O’ Rourke Memorial Trail is a 4.4-mile trail (round trip), located on the Westside of El Paso. This trail welcomes walkers, runners and recreational cyclists who visit for its astounding view of the Franklin Mountains. When working out along the trail, you will be in awe as you take glimpses of the native landscaping while enjoying the solitude of the area. There is typically light traffic, and the trail is not only flat but also has a slight incline and decline to keep fitness lovers going back for more.
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