Celebrate Our Mountains

Without a doubt El Paso’s most prominent and beautiful feature are the Franklin Mountains.

So it comes of no surprise that we celebrate this gorgeous asset each fall. This year, during the 15th annual Celebration of Our Mountains, organizers have selected the theme as “Celebrate Our Franklins.”

The celebration has begun and will continue through Nov. 9. This weekend outdoor lovers can hike to the top of Mount Cristo Rey in Sunland Park, N.M. The hike starts at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27. You don’t need reservations, but bring water, a hat, sunscreen and some good hiking shoes. The 5-mile trip will take about three hours. You’re also asked to make a $3 donation to help with the restoration of the murals that adorn the mountain.

If creepy crawls are more your thing, head over to the Saturday Morning Safari at 9 and 10 a.m. at the Franklin Mountains State Park, Site 39 (on the West Side). You’ll learn about the desert dwellers, including snakes, tarantulas and scorpions. The cost is $4 per person. Children 12 and under get in free.

Also on Saturday, the El Paso Audubon Society will lead a birding tour beginning at 7:30 a.m. The group will meet in front of the Evergreen Cemetery, 12400 Montana and carpool to Rattlesnake Springs, near Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The trip is about 130 miles away, but organizers are asking carpoolers to share the cost of gas. Bring your lunch, water and binoculars. Participants have seen about 40 different kinds of birds in past expeditions.

Which ever event you chose, remember to have fun and don’t forget your sunscreen and water!

Visit the Celebration of Our Mountains Web site for a complete schedule of events.