Join renowned hiker, AJ, and Hao Pham, a member of the UTEP Geology Club, and visit the only tin mines in the United States. Learn about the structure and formation of the Franklins, the geological history that played a significant role of the creation of tin, as well as the history and excavation of the old tin mine. This 6.5-miles round trip is generally easy as well as dog friendly, so don't forget your furry friends! Remember to bring your sunscreen, proper gear, lunch and plenty of water. Meet in the parking lot of Chuck Heinrich Park. (MAP)

Small quantities of tin were produced in the Franklin Mountains in the early 1900s. A mine founded in 1909 and operated by the El Paso Tin Mining and Smelting Company proved unsuccessful; work was stopped in 1915 after the project yielded only 160 100-pound pigs of tin. (from El Paso County Historical Society.)