El Paso might feel like the edge of Texas, but it’s actually the perfect base for discovering some of the Southwest’s most unique destinations. Whether you’re after desert hikes, cultural gems, or even snowy peaks, there’s a surprising variety of adventures just a short drive away. These ten handpicked day trips keep the drive manageable while offering exciting ways to see the region from a new angle.
Ciudad Juárez, Mexico
Distance: 10 to 25 minutes
Best Time to Go: Year-round
Trip Type: Culture and Urban Exploration
Just across the border, Ciudad Juárez is vibrant, fast-paced, and full of flavor. You’ll find lively markets, local street food, and handcrafted souvenirs. Make time to visit the Museo de Arte de Ciudad Juárez for regional art, or hike up Cerro de Cristo Rey for sweeping views of the city.
If you go, stick to daylight hours and main tourist areas for safety. Also, border wait times vary, so plan ahead and bring your passport.
Franklin Mountains State Park
Distance: 25 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Outdoor Recreation
Located right inside the city limits, Franklin Mountains State Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. with over 27,000 acres of wild terrain. You can hike, bike, or climb over 100 miles of trails. Don’t miss the Wyler Aerial Tramway for views that stretch into Mexico and New Mexico.
If you’re short on time but need a nature fix, this spot makes for an ideal half-day retreat.
Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site
Distance: 40 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Outdoor Adventure and History
Hueco Tanks is famous for its rock climbing, especially bouldering, with thousands of routes across its granite outcrops. But there’s also deep cultural history here, with ancient pictographs and petroglyphs from Native American tribes.
To explore the restricted areas and see the rock art, it’s best to book a guided tour in advance. Whether you’re into climbing or culture, this park has something rare and special.
Mesilla, New Mexico
Distance: 45 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: History and Food
Mesilla is a charming town near Las Cruces that brings Old West history to life. Explore the San Albino Basilica, visit the Billy the Kid Museum, and enjoy authentic Mexican food at La Posta de Mesilla, a restaurant housed in an old stagecoach stop.
The town also hosts lively events like Cinco de Mayo and Christmas in Old Mesilla. It’s a low-key destination that delivers big on charm.
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Distance: 1 hour
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Culture and Nature
Set in the scenic Mesilla Valley, Las Cruces offers a blend of historic charm and mountain views. The Old Mesilla Plaza is great for shopping and local art. Stop by the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum to explore the agricultural past of the region.
The nearby Organ Mountains provide hiking trails with epic vistas. Or you can kayak along the Rio Grande for a relaxing afternoon.
Aguirre Springs Recreation Area
Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Hiking and Camping
Aguirre Springs sits on the east side of the Organ Mountains. Trails like the Baylor Canyon and Needle’s Eye offer stunning views and manageable hikes. It’s a quiet alternative to some of the more crowded parks, making it ideal for a peaceful day in nature.
There are also campsites here if you want to extend your trip under the stars.
White Sands National Park
Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
Trip Type: Photography and Exploration
White Sands National Park is one of the most visually stunning places in the country. The gleaming gypsum dunes stretch for miles, and the light constantly changes the landscape.
You can hike, sled down the dunes, or just wander with a camera. Be sure to stay for sunset, when the entire park glows in pink and orange hues. Bonus: the nearby town of Alamogordo is home to the world’s largest pistachio and offers local tours.
Deming, New Mexico
Distance: 1 hour 35 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Small-Town Culture
Deming is a lesser-known gem with a quirky vibe. The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum dives into the area’s Native American and pioneer history. Main Street has colorful murals and a few must-try spots for green chile cheeseburgers.
If you visit in August, don’t miss the annual Great American Duck Race, a truly unique New Mexico event that blends fun with small-town flair.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Distance: 1 hour 35 minutes
Best Time to Go: Fall and spring
Trip Type: Hiking and Scenic Views
This national park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. The rugged terrain includes fossilized reef formations and old stagecoach routes. Hike to the top or explore shorter trails like the Devil’s Hall for rock formations and slot canyons.
It’s also home to wildlife like black bears and mountain lions, so keep your eyes open. For those with extra time, Carlsbad Caverns is close enough for a combined trip.
Elephant Butte Lake
Distance: 2 hours
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
Trip Type: Water Sports and Relaxation
Elephant Butte Lake is New Mexico’s largest lake and a great spot for boating, jet skiing, or swimming. Nearby Truth or Consequences offers relaxing hot springs and funky downtown shops. If you’re into space exploration, visit Spaceport America for a futuristic twist to your trip.
This is the best pick if you want a full-day getaway with a mix of nature, water, and something out of this world.
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