Tuesday, November 3, 2015

El Paso Bypass

Note: I tried posting this entry using Windows Live Writer, but Blogger doesn't recognize my password. After banging my head against the wall and trying all suggestions from friends as well as my own persistence in following prompts and searching for a solution, I'm now trying to post directly to Blogger without Live Writer in the mix. Crossing my fingers...

Several people have asked for these directions for bypassing heavy traffic on I-10 through El Paso, so I decided to write a post that can be easily referred to in the future. For RVers, this is a great way to avoid the heaviest traffic on I-10, and especially to avoid the steep climb/descent over Mt. Franklin. For anyone else, it’s still an easier way to get through/around the city. This is NOT a shortcut, but a low-stress bypass.

Westbound
1. Exit I-10 at Joe Battle Blvd (exit #34) to get on TX-375 Loop (north/westbound).
2. Go approximately 21 miles, turn right (northbound) on US-54/Patriot Fwy. Note that this turn isn't well-marked with signs. DO NOT take Transmountain Road, as the climb is pretty steep.
3. Go approximately 2 miles, take exit 31 to FM-3255/MLK Jr Blvd, turn left (northbound). This becomes NM-213 when you cross into New Mexico (about 5 miles from last turn).
4. At the traffic circle (about 3 miles from state line) take SR-404/O'Hara Rd (westbound).
5. Go approximately 8 miles, get back on I-10 (westbound) at exit #162. If you want to go to Camping World or Flying J, go eastbound about 1.5 miles to Anthony, TX/NM.

Eastbound
1. Exit I-10 at NM-404/O'Hara Rd (exit #162). Turn left (eastbound). (See note above re Camping World/Flying J).
2. Go approximately 8 miles. At the traffic circle turn right (southbound) on NM-213. This becomes FM-3255 when you cross into Texas (about 3 miles from traffic circle).
3. Go approximately 5 miles, take the entrance to US-54/Patriot Fwy (southbound).
4. Go approximately 2 miles, take exit 29 to TX-375 Loop. Turn left (south/eastbound).
5. Go approximately 21 miles to get back on I-10 eastbound.

Total miles: 39, vs. 36 if you stay on I-10, with a lot less traffic and stress.

5 comments:

  1. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

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  2. Good timing. We are headed that way this winter. We'll be sure to try this option.

    thx...
    -- jc&bev

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  3. We really hate El Paso traffic with the fast rude drivers, the changing lanes, the construction etc.. We'll be heading that way in December and this information will sure make life easier with less stress! Thank you!! Robbie and Alice

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    1. Sharon, wanted to add that the Texas Information Center on the south side of I-10 in Anthony, near Camping World, is a great overnight spot, well marked easy on and off. RV's are separated from Trucks, and there is night security.....great wifi too!

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    2. Sharon, wanted to add that the Texas Information Center on the south side of I-10 in Anthony, near Camping World, is a great overnight spot, well marked easy on and off. RV's are separated from Trucks, and there is night security.....great wifi too!

      Delete

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