Franklin Mountains View

The Lower and Upper Sunset Trail Loop offers a quintessential Chihuahuan Desert hiking experience, taking you through rugged terrain with impressive views. You'll traverse rocky paths, cross arroyos, and climb up foothills, with the Lower Sunset Trail featuring a notable scenic cliffside singletrack section. The highlight is undoubtedly the ridgeline walk on the Upper Sunset Trail, where you're treated to expansive vistas of the Franklin Mountains and the Rio Grande valley.

This moderate 10.4-mile (16.7 km) loop involves 1286 feet (392 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 46 minutes to complete. Access is via Franklin Mountains State Park's Tom Mays Unit, which requires an entrance fee. Given the minimal shade, it's best to tackle this trail during cooler parts of the day or outside of peak summer heat, and always carry plenty of water.

Beyond the stunning views, the trail provides an excellent opportunity to observe the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem, with plants like ocotillo and prickly pear, and potential sightings of jackrabbits, lizards, and various birds. The varied terrain, combining flat sections with significant climbs, makes for a dynamic and engaging hike that truly immerses you in the desert landscape.