Join a park ranger on a guided hike through the Western foothills of the Franklin Mountains.

This hike is a moderate 1.5 miles. It begins with a gradual incline through a well-maintained switchback trail to wide-open vistas to the west. The return trip travels down over scree, or rubble, proving to be challenging for some.

Reservations are required; to reserve your spot, call the office at (915) 444-9121.

Bring: water, snacks, hiking boots/shoes, and comfortable clothes.

Optional: binoculars, hiking stick, camera, and a map.

Meeting location: Meet at the West Cottonwood Spring Trailhead. When you enter Tom Mays, stop by the Visitor Center and let the Ranger on duty know you are part of the hike. This is where you will pay the fee. Take the first right after passing the booth and find a parking space.

Fee: $5 for adults 13 years old and up; $0 for Texas State Park Pass holders and children 12 and und