North Franklin Mountain via the Rim

The North Franklin Mountain is the highest peak in the Franklin Mountains Park and it is frequently visited mainly during the weekends. You start at the West Cottonwood Trailhead (31.91671,-106.50919), walk by this trail for about 0.6 of a mile then take the Mundy’s Gap Trail to your left; this trail finishes at the mile 1.7. At this point you have to turn to your right and take the trail that goes up by the rim toward the peak of the mountain (do not take the trail that goes down). This trail is not on the map but it is there and people use it frequently. The trail is rocky and steep but well-marked and easy to follow. You have to climb the rocks, but this is not a difficult task, just be careful with the loose rocks so you do not slip. At about 2.5 miles you will reach an intersection with the North Franklin Mountain Trail, find again the trail by the rim to your right and continue walking up. At about the mile 2.6 you will reach again the North Franklin Mountain Trail, and then continue on this trail until you reach the top of the mountain. The landscape from the top is amazing, 360 degrees of beautiful vistas, you will love this place! You return by the same trail, but instead of reaching the Mundy’s Gap trail, you will turn to your left at about 0.9 of a mile from the top of the mountain and walk down by the trail in direction of the West Cottonwood Spring. This place is like an oasis in the desert, stop en enjoy it because it is the only shaded area on your trip. Continue walking down and just leaving the West Cottonwood Spring you will take the trail to your left that goes by the mountainside. This trail is not shown on the map but it connects with the Agave Loop Trail that will take you to the Trailhead where you started. If you visit this trail during summer time bring plenty of water, it is also recommended to wear a good pair of hiking boots and use a walking stick.