Epic Travel → North America → The West Coast → Southern California → Anza Borrego Desert → Wind Caves

Location: Anza Borrego Desert, California

Distance: 1.25 miles roundtrip

Elevation Gain/Loss: 250 ft/250 ft

Red Tape/Notes: Dogs are not permitted; no fee or permit required. Not recommended for low clearance vehicles (but possible if you like to live dangerously).

What’s Nearby?: “The Slot”

The wind caves make for a fun and easy outing, and I’d recommend this trip for any skill level. You may not want to go in the middle of the summer, but given that it’s only a little over half a mile to the caves (with about 250 feet of elevation gain), you could definitely manage this even with sweltering heat.

After arriving at the trailhead, you’ll head up the east side of Split Mountain Wash, getting lovely views of the Carrizo Badlands on your way up. After about half a mile, you’ll arrive at the Wind Caves – large sandstone formations in which the wind has eroded pockets, tunnels, and caves. Take your time exploring the area, including any of the surrounding trails, one of which leads to a lovely viewpoint overlooking the wash and badlands. There’s also a trail that descends to some sandstone caves that are nice to explore.

I want to go! How do I get there?: From Borrego Springs, head 11.5 miles southeast on Borrego Springs Road. Hang a left on Route 78 East and drive 6.6 miles to Ocotillo Wells, then turn south on Split Mountain Road.

About 8 miles from Route 78 (2.25 miles past the Elephant Tree Trail Area if you noticed it), the pavement ends. Turn right on the sand/dirt road up the center of a sandy wash. We did this in a Toyota Corolla once, but that was part of the fun for us. I wouldn’t recommend this drive for low clearance vehicles unless you’re good at driving off road (in inappropriate vehicles) and you don’t mind the possibility of getting stuck. After 1.4 miles, you’ll cross the turnoff for Fish Creek Campground, after which the canyon will narrow substantially.

Drive another 2.75 to the trailhead. It’s located on the left, on the inside of a curve in the road (you’ll know when you’re there – a sign for Wind Caves Trail is posted).

Trailhead address: Fish Creek Wash, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Trailhead coordinates: 32.9933, -116.1184 (32° 59′ 35.9″N 116° 07′ 06.2″W)

Click here for the Google Maps link

Epic Travel → North America → The West Coast → Southern California → Anza Borrego Desert → Wind Caves