Export to Trail Guide
Create Guidebook 
Download GPX 
Print Friendly Map
If you’re looking for a good spot to exercise in the Lower Valley, consider the Playa Drain Trail. The recreational trail is paved, making it easy for trail users ranging from older users to families with young children. On top of this the trail is jam-packed with amenities including benches, shade structures, water fountains, bike racks & bike repair stations, exercise stations, picnic tables and public art.
As of December 2023, the Playa Drain Trail is in two segments. From its northern end at Ascarate Park, the trail follows the Valley Gate Lateral canal through primarily residential neighborhoods to Riverside High School. Along the way, the trail passes Hidden Valley Park, Cedar Grove Pond, and Riverside Park. This segment is 3.2 miles long.
There are plans to fill the gap in the route between Riverside High School and Knights Drive, slightly southeast of Thomas Manor Park.
Picking up on Knights Drive, the Playa Drain Trail runs along the banks of the stormwater ditch from which it gets its name. The trail follows the ditch south as it meanders past JP Shawver Park. The almost mile-long section running along the edge of the park and is also known as the Independence Drive Bike Trail or the Independence Hike and Bike Linear Trail. This portion is a 14-foot wide asphalt trail just short of a mile. The trail provides a recreational space for local residents while connecting them to JP Shawver Park and the amenities in the park, which include tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and a swimming pool.
Continuing seamlessly to Ysleta High School, the Playa Drain Trail is briefly known as the Ysleta High School Trail as it runs past the school. The trail continues to meander south until it reaches Capistrano Park, which serves as the trail's southern end. This segment is 3.6 miles long.
The Playa Drain Trail is also the first segment of a planned 60-mile trail called the Paso del Norte Trail.
Parking is available at Ascarate Park (6900 Delta Dr, El Paso). Hidden Valley Park (200 Coconut Tree Ln, El Paso), JP Shawver Park(8100 Independence Dr, El Paso),
El Paso's public transit system, Sun Metro, provides access to the trail via multiple bus stops along or near the route.
Visit the TrailLink map for all transit options, parking locations, and detailed directions.
First time on a bike since a kid and with a trailer. Super clean. Highly recommend
A really nice trail that’s well lit at night. Right across from the Shawver park and the Cowan water center it’s short enough to make walking and running a good sweat but it also works just enough to enjoy a nice evening walk. Wish it could be extended though . It’s well lit at night like I said so it’s pretty safe and accessible.
Nice place to ride a mountain bike or road bike or walk or take your furry friend nice a clean beautiful scenery ¿¿
TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails conservancy
(a non-profit) and we need your support!
