How to Hike Anthony's Nose in Texas

Anthony's Nose is the second highest peak in the Franklin Mountains. The city of El Paso wraps around the Franklin Mountains in a horseshoe shape and the mountain peaks provide excellent views of the surrounding desert floor and city. The mountain is rugged and the climb is strenuous. This hike is for fit, experienced hikers who are good at map reading and route finding.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots
• Food and water
• Sunscreen
• Map of the Franklin Mountains State Park

1. Follow I-10 west from downtown El Paso to the Loop 375 exit. Take the highway east towards the mountains for about 3.5 miles to the turnoff on the left into Franklin Mountains State Park.
2. Follow the road into Tom Mays picnic area for about 2 miles and park at the end of the paved road.
3. Start from the picnic area and go down into an arm of the Avispa Canyon. There is no marked route up to Anthony's Nose, so this just one possible way to the summit.
4. Turn north about a mile down the canyon and climb up between two hills. This will take you north along the base of the mountains for about 1.5 miles, when you reach a dirt road. Turn right on the road into Vinton Canyon.
5. Climb the canyon wall from the end of the road into Vinton Canyon to the top of the ridge that radiates out from the main spine of the mountains. Climb the ridge to the east until you reach the crest of the range.
6. Follow the crest to the summit of Anthony's Nose. Work along the west side of the peak until you find a safe route to the summit. The north side drops off in sheer cliffs.
7. Descend along the same route, slowly and carefully picking your way down.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick up a map of the Franklin Mountains State Park at the Visitor Center.
• Avoid summer hiking of the Franklin Mountains entirely. The best time to go is winter, but be aware of any winter storms.
• The park closes at night, so plan on being back before the gates are locked.
• Check in with park staff before you start.