Hike to Old Tin Mines

When: 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: Meet at the Shell station at the intersection of U.S. 54 and Martin Luther King Jr. in Northeast El Paso. Drive to trailhead. Or or meet at Chuck Heinrich Park at Jon Cunningham and Loma Del Norte at 8:15 a.m.
Leader: El Paso RidgeWalkers. Carol Brown, 630-1424. Web: elpasoridgewalkers.com
Maximum participants: 25
Bring: Suntan lotion, water, snacks, sturdy shoes, strong flashlight, light jacket.
Length: 6-mile hike, moderate to difficult.
Cost: Free.
Summary: Tin was mined in the east-central Franklin Mountains in the early 20th century and the Franklin Mountain operation was the only one of its kind in North America. Remains of the elaborate constructions are accessible to hikers. Franklin Mountain State Park has constructed safe access to underground tunnels and stopes (rooms). Participants will drive from the meeting place to the trailhead in Northeast El Paso, then hike to the mines. This hike will focus on the history of the tin mines.

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