Tom Lea Upper Park

Stunning City Vistas

Perched on Rim Road in El Paso's western edge, this little urban oasis offers what might be the most jaw-dropping views in the city. From up here, you can take in the sprawling panorama of downtown El Paso, Ciudad Juárez just across the border, and the vast Chihuahuan Desert stretching into the distance.

Sitting high on the Franklin Mountains, the park gives you an excellent bird's-eye view of the city's layout below. You can spot El Paso High School, the historic downtown areas, and on clear days (which are plentiful in this desert climate), it feels like you can see forever across both cities.

A Tribute to Local Talent

The park bears the name of Tom Lea, El Paso's celebrated artist and author whose work captured the spirit of this border region. More than just a green space, it honors his contributions to the local culture.

We love how the park embraces its desert setting instead of fighting against it. Native plants and natural rock formations are thoughtfully integrated throughout, showcasing what makes this corner of Texas so unique.

A Peaceful Escape

There's something wonderfully calm about this place. The atmosphere invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and just be present with the view. It's no wonder both locals and tourists come here to unwind, enjoy a simple picnic, or just sit quietly for a while.

Gently winding paths make for easy strolling as you take in different angles of the expansive views. The well-kept grassy areas are excellent for spreading out a blanket or simply finding a spot to sit and contemplate.

An especially great feature is that it tends to be less crowded than the nearby Scenic Drive overlook, even though many consider the views here to be superior.

Perfect for Photos and Reflection

If you're into photography, bring your camera! The vantage point is incredible anytime, but during sunrise or sunset, the light transforms the cityscape into something truly magical. At night, the city lights create a sparkling carpet below that's absolutely worth seeing.

Despite its modest size, Tom Lea Upper Park plays an outsized role in El Paso's landscape. It offers that rare combination of natural beauty and urban panoramas that gives you perspective - both literally and figuratively - on the bustling city below.

Good to Know

The park is dog-friendly, with waste bags available if you're bringing your four-legged friend. You'll often see locals walking their pups along the paths.

There's a convenient parking loop around the park, however it can get busy during prime hours, especially weekend evenings when everyone's hoping to catch the sunset or night views.

While there are lovely green spaces fantastic for a casual picnic or moment of relaxation, note that you won't find playground equipment or public restrooms here. It's more of a scenic outlook than a fully equipped recreational park.