Transmountain Road exposes rocks that are famous at Universities all over North America. Geology classes even travel from Nova Scotia to view these exposures. This is one of the only places in the world to drive up out of the belly of a supervolcano and into the rocks it blasted through, which are the oldest rocks in the Paso del Norte region. Make 3 easy, roadside stops to view different parts of the supervolcano, which erupted 1.12 billion years ago! You will also learn about preservation efforts of Castner Range along this road. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring water and a hat.

Meet at the picnic area just uphill from El Paso Archaeology Museum (MAP)

Learning Objectives: Learn about the ongoing preservation efforts in the Franklin Mountains, including Castner Range. Learn about El Paso’s oldest rocks and fossils. Learn about El Paso’s supervolcano and see the best exposure of an ancient supervolcano in North America.

Co-Leaders: Dr. Eric Kappus, Scott Cutler, and Katalina Salas