Experience · El Paso
Desert Views and Mesa Steak in El Paso
Embark on an afternoon journey into the rugged beauty of Franklin Mountains State Park, El Paso's expansive natural preserve. Afterward, savor a delicious steakhouse meal with panoramic views, making for a memorable local experience.
A 4.5-hour El Paso afternoon plan for friends — Entrecôte & Co., Franklin Mountains State Park, Moca House Cafe.
- Duration
- 4h 30m
- Cost
- $35–$80
- Stops
- 3 stops
- Area
- Crestmont + 1 more
- Walking
- Light walking · Total 11.6-mile driving route
- Best time
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Ideal for
- Friends · Couples · Solo
The plan
The plan
- 1Entrecôte & Co.(1 hr)→
- 2Franklin Mountains State Park(2 hr 30 min)→
- 3Moca House Cafe(1 hr)
Why this plan works
The stops span roughly 11.6 miles across El Paso, so plan on driving — the order below keeps that driving in one direction. Franklin Mountains State Park is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Moca House Cafe — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to friends, couples, and solo who want a planned El Paso outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Embark on an afternoon journey into the rugged beauty of Franklin Mountains State Park, El Paso's expansive natural preserve. Afterward, savor a delicious steakhouse meal with panoramic views, making for a memorable local experience.
The itinerary
3 stops, one great day
- 11 hrEntrecôte & Co.
Food & Drink · Crestmont
What to do — Arrive for a relaxing lunch. Order from the menu, perhaps trying their signature steak frites or a fresh salad. Allow ample time to dine before heading to the park.
Scout Side QuestBefore ordering, secretly guess what your date will pick from the menu. Reveal your predictions once the food is decided.
5.9 mi · 16 min drive
Then Drive about 15 minutes north to Franklin Mountains State Park. Follow signs for the Tom Mays Park Access Road.
22h 30mFranklin Mountains State ParkOutdoors
24,247 acres of scenic desert offering climbing, hiking, wildlife, camping & views.
What to do — Choose a trail suitable for your fitness level, such as the easy nature trail or a more challenging hike for panoramic vistas. Bring water and wear appropriate footwear.
Scout Side QuestLook across the landscape and see who can spot the single farthest landmark on the horizon. Agree on a winner.
5.7 mi · 16 min drive
Then Head south about 10 minutes to the Mesa Hills area for a coffee break.
3Optional 1 hrMoca House CafeFood & Drink · Sunland Park North
What to do — Order your favorite coffee or a specialty drink, and perhaps a sweet treat to refuel. Find a comfortable spot to relax and reflect on your desert exploration.
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The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good El Paso itinerary for friends?
- Yes. It's built for friends, couples, and solo and runs about 4 hr 30 min across 3 stops, starting at Entrecôte & Co..
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 4 hr 30 min door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this El Paso itinerary cost?
- Roughly $35–$80 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 11.6 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
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