6 Best Hiking Trails Near Anthony for Beginners

Sometimes, the best way to reset is by stepping into nature. The small town of Anthony, New Mexico, might not be the first place that comes to mind for outdoor adventures, but it’s surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and surprisingly accessible, beginner-friendly hiking trails.

These trails are perfect for anyone new to hiking or simply looking for a casual walk with beautiful scenery, manageable distances, and well-maintained paths. The nearby landscapes offer a rich variety, from the rocky hills of the Franklin Mountains to serene desert valleys and breathtaking scenic viewpoints.

This guide covers the best hiking trails near Anthony, each offering a peaceful and refreshing escape into the unique beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these trails provide a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and connect with nature.

1. Anthony Gap Trail – A Scenic Desert Walk

Anthony Gap Trail is a great starting point for beginners who want a rewarding desert hike with panoramic views. While it has a moderate, gradual ascent, it is entirely manageable and offers a fantastic glimpse into the beauty of the Franklin Mountains.

Trail Highlights:

• The path provides stunning, wide-open views of the surrounding mountains as you climb.
• In the spring, the trail comes alive with desert wildflowers, creating a colorful landscape. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching.
• The trail is generally well-marked and the elevation gain is minimal, making it a comfortable challenge for new hikers.

Tips for Hikers:

• The trail has some loose rocks, so wearing sturdy shoes with good grip is a good idea.
• It’s best to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun.
• Always bring plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is limited.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

2. Rio Bosque Wetlands Park – A Unique Desert Oasis

For a truly unique experience, head to Rio Bosque Wetlands Park. This trail is completely flat and easy, offering a rare look at a thriving wetland ecosystem in the middle of the desert. It’s an excellent choice for families and anyone interested in wildlife.

Trail Highlights:

• According to the Visit El Paso website, the park is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
• The dirt trails are well-maintained and feature interpretive signs that provide information about the local flora and fauna.
• The landscape changes with the seasons depending on water flow, offering a different experience with each visit.

Tips for Hikers:

• Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the diverse bird species.
• To protect the delicate ecosystem, it’s important to stay on the marked paths.
• Check the park’s website for information on guided tours, which are often hosted by local conservation groups.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Approximately 2 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

3. Franklin Mountains State Park (Tom Mays Unit) – A Gentle Intro to Mountain Hiking

The Tom Mays Unit of Franklin Mountains State Park is the perfect place for beginners to get a taste of mountain hiking without committing to strenuous climbs. It offers several short, scenic trails that are both accessible and rewarding.

Trail Highlights:

• The Nature Walk Trail is an easy, well-marked loop with interpretive signs explaining the desert environment.
• For a bit more of a challenge, the Aztec Caves Trail is a short but slightly steeper hike that leads to a fun cave you can explore.
• The park provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially at sunset.

Tips for Hikers:

• If you want the easiest experience, stick to the Nature Walk Trail.
• The Aztec Caves Trail is still very beginner-friendly but requires a little more effort.
• Don’t forget your camera. The sunsets from the park are truly breathtaking.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Varies (Nature Walk Trail is ~1 mile; Aztec Caves Trail is ~1.5 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

4. Dripping Springs Natural Area – An Easy Hike to Historic Ruins

Dripping Springs Natural Area is a well-maintained trail that offers a gentle, gradual hike leading to fascinating historic ruins and a seasonal waterfall. The path is wide and even, making it a comfortable walk for hikers of all skill levels.

Trail Highlights:

• The trail is surrounded by beautiful desert scenery, including low-elevation piñon-juniper and oak woodlands.
• At the end of the trail, you’ll find the stone ruins of a former tuberculosis sanatorium, offering a glimpse into the area’s history.
• After heavy rain, a seasonal waterfall appears, adding a special touch to the experience.

Tips for Hikers:

• Spring and fall are the best times to visit when the temperatures are cooler.
• The trail has very little shade, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
• The area has picnic sites, making it a great spot to relax and have lunch after your hike.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

5. Leasburg Dam State Park Trails – A Riverside Stroll with Desert Views

For a peaceful and easy walk, Leasburg Dam State Park offers trails that run alongside the Rio Grande. With minimal elevation change, these paths are perfect for a casual stroll, families with children, or anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Trail Highlights:

• Enjoy scenic views of the river contrasting with the surrounding desert landscape.
• The paths are flat and easy to navigate, making them ideal for all fitness levels.
• Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including roadrunners, lizards, and various bird species.

Tips for Hikers:

• The cooler months of fall, winter, and spring offer the most comfortable weather for this hike.
• The park is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.
• If you’re visiting in the summer, consider bringing bug spray.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Varies (short loops available)
• Difficulty: Easy

6. Aguirre Spring Loop Trail – A Scenic Desert-Mountain Mix

Located in the beautiful Organ Mountains, the Aguirre Spring Loop Trail provides a wonderful mix of desert and mountain scenery without a difficult climb. It’s a great option for beginners looking for a slightly longer hike.

Trail Highlights:

• The trail offers beautiful vistas of the jagged peaks of the Organ Mountains.
• It’s a well-maintained loop with gradual inclines that are manageable for most beginners.
• During the spring, the area is decorated with seasonal wildflowers and blooming cacti.

Tips for Hikers:

• Visit in the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
• Shade is limited, so be sure to bring extra water.
• The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so watch for signs of high winds or storms.

Essential Details:

• Distance: Approximately 4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Your Refreshing Outdoor Escape Awaits

The area around Anthony proves that you don’t have to be an expert hiker to enjoy the great outdoors. These trails offer stunning scenery and accessible adventures for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll along the river or a morning exploring the mountains, these peaceful escapes are waiting for you. All you need are some comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure to get started.