Join Master Hiker, AJ, on a hike to the March 1944, B-24 Liberator plane crash site (to the right of the “A”) and learn more about another one of the two B-24 crashes in the Franklin Mountains. Our hike is done in conjunction with the El Paso Hiking Group.

This is a fairly short hike, but over rough terrain with some scrambling and loose rocks (scree) in a couple of areas. No one will be left behind, this is a group endeavor. The hike distance is about 2 miles round trip at the most, and should take 2-3 hours depending on group size and ability.

You will visit the site of a B24 Liberator that crashed on March 23, 1944 The memorial in the picture above is on the edge of a red rock canyon. (The red rhyolite is a remnant of the super-continent, Rodinia, that formed about one billion years ago. At that time our part of the North American continent was connected to what is today Western Australia.) Hiking to the canyon will be up an arroyo and then up the side of the hill to the memorial. Some history will be discussed of the site, and the events that have occurred there.

Start time is 7:30 AM. However, please show up a few minutes earlier so we can organize and introduce ourselves. Start time is early to stay out of the heat as much as possible. Items needed: Water, 2 liters minimum. Strong hiking shoes, this is an off trail area, so loose rocks and bushes abound. Cactus, thorny plants, and lechugilla are prolific here as well. Gloves and long pants recommended. Sunscreen, good hat for protection from the sun. This hike is on the east side of the mountains, so there is essentially no shade. Parking is at the intersection of Kentucky and Memphis streets, there is a lot of neighborhood parking in this area, be respectful of the neighborhood please, do not block driveways or alleyways. (MAP)

Bring a mask and plan to social distance. You will not necessarily need to wear the mask while hiking. But please have one available for other situations.

The hike is not pet friendly.

For more information, contact angusjohnston711@gmail.com.