SA Report: Slot canyon...yeah, we're cool
Trip Date: 2/24/13
Location: Anza-Borrego State Park
Permit/Pass: None required
Trail map: parks.ca.gov
Directions: From Borrego Springs (town located in the middle of the park) take Hwy S22 east about four miles and follow as it turns north for another 2 miles. Soon it will veer east again. Follow the road and watch the mileage markers on the shoulder. After you see the mile 38 marker watch for an abrupt turnoff to the right onto a sandy parking area with an interpretive marker. The trailhead, and another interpretive marker, is across the highway and just a few yards west.
Trail sequence: Calcite road /dry wash / Calcite road
Type: Infinity loop
Distance: 4.3 miles
Elevation: Min. - 478', Max. - 1154'
Profile:
Rating: Moderate
Synopsis: An interesting walk through typical Anza-Borrego rocky, sandy scenery with the added attraction of scrambling and hiking through some fun slot canyons. Be sure to get the local info on this trek if you're not completely sure of your orienteering ability, and expect high heat in the summer (though the slots do offer some shade).
Track: Calcite Mine / slot canyon - Anza Borrego SP
Turn by turn:
-- Cross the street after parking, and find the road entrance with an interpretive marker.
-- Follow Calcite Rd. as it descends immediately into a wash and then climbs out again as it begins to ascend toward the mine area.
-- As you hike generally northwest, keep alert for a faint road turning off to the right and down into another wash. Veer to the left (west) and follow the wash as it steepens and narrows.
-- Continue through the slot to the west, being careful not to get lured off course into side slots, until you rise to once again meet Calcite Rd. Cross the road and continue into the canyon on the other side.
-- Follow this slot as it trends west to north as far as you feel comfortable. If unsure, turn and find your way back down to the intersection with the road again and walk up to the mine if desired or just head back down to your car.
-- If you're feeling confident, try to find a side slot to the north-northeast out of which you can climb and bushwhack east to meet Calcite Rd.
Photo gallery: Flickr