Mt. Cristo Rey Hike, Other Excursions

For decades, the faithful and nature lovers have walked up Mount Cristo Rey.

A guided hike will start at noon Thursday, Dec. 30, in Sunland Park, N.M. The hike is 5 miles round trip and takes about two to thee hours. A presentation on the history of the monument will be given at the summit. The four-story-tall statue of Christ on the cross was built in 1938-40 by sculptor Urbici Soler. The mountaintop is 4,576 feet above sea level, in Sunland Park, N.M., near the junction of Mexico, Texas and New Mexico. The hike is sponsored by El Paso Convention & Visitors Bureau and El Paso Scene. Security is provided along the trail and in the parking lot.

According to organizers, the 5-mile hike is easy to moderate, and is suitable for all ages. Free bottled water provided for hikers. Meet at the large parking lot at the trailhead to Mount Cristo Rey off McNutt Road (NM 273). Take the Racetrack exit off Paisano and cross the Rio Grande.

Cost: $5 ($2 for children) donation requested for the Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee. Information: 252-9840. No reservation is required.

To find other nearby excursions, click here.