Aztec Caves

Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Views · Wildflowers

While steep and sometimes technical, this is a short trail and is popular with users of all experience levels, including children. Use caution around others who may not be used to a runner bounding across rocks on a narrow pathway.

This popular trail leads to three small caves on the western face of the Franklin Mountains.

Aztec Caves' trailhead is located a short distance east of the Tom Mays Trail, just off a parking lot near picnic and camping areas. Well-marked and straightforward, it heads in a mostly straight line up to the caves, which are visible from the base. Two more primitive campsites are located along the trail, which would make a nice option for visitors spending the night.

The trail becomes much steeper in its final section around the half mile point, possibly requiring some minor scrambling. The caves, while not deep, are large and one of the few spots to find shade in the Tom Mays Unit.

Sotols, agaves, mesquite trees, cacti and apache plumes can be seen. There several species of birds and there are also jackrabbits.