Outdoor Adventure Tour

El Paso and Hueco Tanks (Rockclimbing)

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Just 32 miles northeast of El Paso is Hueco Tanks State Historical Site , a 860-acre park and rockclimber’s paradise. Whether you are a novice at scaling rock faces or a seasoned veteran, Hueco Tanks offers some 120 popular routes for climbs at varied levels. It is mostly known for its bouldering. The park is especially popular during winter as it is one of the only high-rated climbing spots in the southwest that is accessible during colder months.

Named for its large natural rock basins or "huecos," Hueco Tanks has furnished a supply of trapped rain water to desperate travelers through this arid region of West Texas for thousands of years. When you want to take a rest from the bouldering, take the opportunity to study the many pictographs that can be found on the rocks in the park. The images were drawn by archaic hunters and foragers as well as more recent Native Americans, such as the Apache and Kiowas. The pictures depict tales of hardships, wars, mystical beliefs and special ceremonies.

While winter is an optimal time to go to Hueco Tanks, access to the park is more restricted. It’s a good idea to call the park and inquire about guides for climbing trips and to see the best pictographs. The park headquarters can be reached at (915) 857-1135. Campsites are available at the park, or it makes for a good day trip from El Paso. Guidebooks to rockclimbing routes at Hueco Tanks are available by doing a search on the Internet. With a guidebook, you can do some advance planning for your rockclimbing adventure.