6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938, a map
If you’ve been climbing, you’ve likely heard of the Hueco Tanks, a 40-minute drive from El Paso. It is arguably the best rock spot in the United States and the world.
Even if you don’t climb, the Hueco Tanks are still worth a visit if you’re hiking or want a living museum experience. We’d never have noticed, but our guide, Dan, showed us scattering 700-800 year old pottery shards and Native American rock art dating back to 6000 BC, which can be found at over 200 sites.
Hueco Tanks is divided into four regions: North Mountain, East Mountain, East Spur, and West Mountain. Because of their archaeological importance, they have strict access to the parks. North Mountain is the only area you can explore without a guide, but it still requires reservations.
You will need a guide to climb or explore the last three regions. Highly recommend Blue orchid climbing and yogawhich our friends also went with years ago.
The entrance fee is $7 per person (13+) per day, or you can purchase a Texas State Parks pass for $70. In addition, you can add tours or guides.
Local tip: It gets hot if you visit during the summer (May to September)! Although you can find some shady places to climb, most people avoid this season. If you’re planning on hiking, go early in the morning or late afternoon.
See more: 17 practical gifts for rock climbers they’ll love and use
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