El Paso date ideas, from the Franklin Mountains to the border

By the Texas Dating editors · Checked 8 November 2026

In shortEl Paso is a good place to date if you like the outdoors and a slower pace. Hike in the Franklin Mountains, follow the murals along the Mission Trail, or skate at the WinterFest rink downtown in the holiday season.

Key facts

Franklin Mountains	Almost 27,000 acres, 100 plus miles of trail
Park gate	8 a.m. to 5 p.m., earlier on spring and summer weekends
WinterFest rink	November 21, 2026 to January 3, 2027
El Fresco concerts	Free, at the Convention Center Plaza

El Paso has a slower pace than the big Texas metros, with mountains and desert close by. Dates here can be outdoors most of the year. These three ideas show off the city well.

The Lost Dog Trail Loop

Visit El Paso suggests the Lost Dog Trail Loop in the Franklin Mountains for a hike with desert views. Go early, take plenty of water and turn back if it gets too hot.

Source: Visit El Paso: Fun things to do in El Paso for couples, checked 9 November 2026

Murals on the Mission Trail

Murals along the historic Mission Trail tell the story of El Paso through art. It makes an easy self-guided date with lots to talk about. For a bigger day out, Hueco Tanks is known for rock climbing and ancient pictographs.

Source: Visit El Paso: Fun things to do in El Paso for couples, checked 9 November 2026

Skate at WinterFest

The Rink at WinterFest opens at the El Paso Convention Center Plaza on November 21, 2026 and runs until January 3, 2027. Skating together is a fun way to break the ice on an early date.

Source: Visit El Paso: Festivals and events, checked 9 November 2026

Questions

Is El Paso good for outdoor dates?

Yes. The Franklin Mountains are right in the city, with more than 100 miles of trail. Reserve a day pass, as the park often fills up.

Where can we go on a winter date in El Paso?

Try the Rink at WinterFest downtown, which runs from November 21, 2026 to January 3, 2027.

What is a good first date in El Paso?

Keep it simple and public. A walk along the Mission Trail murals, a free El Fresco concert in summer or a skate at WinterFest in winter all work well.