Archive for August, 2009
Aug
2009
The Slot
August 31st, 2009 at 11:45 am by admin in Jeep TrailsLocation: West of Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Difficult: Difficult. One very steep sand hill gives this trail its difficult rating. Some moderate rock crawling, but most of the route is easy. If you drive the trail in opposite direction, you can avoid the difficult sand hill. Do not attempt to drive up the sand hill because this causes unnecessary erosion.
Features: Kids will love this trip. Drive, then hike into narrow canyon. Descend extremely steep hill. Explore other roads in the area.
Aug
2009
Fonts Point
August 30th, 2009 at 02:16 pm by admin in Jeep TrailsLocation: East of Borrego Springs
Difficulty: Easy. This trip can be done in a two-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle as long as you stay in the center of the wash where the sand is hard packed. However, it’s a good idea to stay in four-wheel drive all the time in case you wander into the soft sand. Keep up your speed in case you begin to bog down. Check at Anza-Borrego Park Visitor Center for road conditions.
Features: A short drive in a wide sandy wash culminating with a truly outstanding view of Borrego Badlands. Don’t skip this trip.
Aug
2009
Truckhaven
August 29th, 2009 at 11:12 am by admin in Jeep TrailsLocation: Directly west of Salton City
Difficulty: Difficult. The area is a maze of deeply cut trenches and sharp ridges. Extremely narrow with tight turns, near-vertical climbs and cliff-like descents. Articulation is severly tested for the average hardcore vehicle. Shot wheel-based vehicles has a distinct advantage. Lockers are necessary, preferably front and rear. It is nearly impossible to follow an exact route without a guide; however, you can’t really get lost for long. Just head east in any of the main washes to return to Highway 86. Slick and dangerous if wet. Don’t go alone. Vehicle damage possible.
Features: The route described here has no particular significance other than to introduce you to the area. Even with directions, it will be difficult to follow this exact route; the area is simply too confusing. Try to find the fireplug located on a high plateau. From there, you can get a better view of the area. A compass or GPS unit will assist you in finding your way. Make sure you have adequate water and supplies. You can find easy and moderate routes in the area, but one wrong turn can lead to trouble. The best way to learn the area is to go with someone who’s been there many times. Another way is to attend the Tierra Del Sol Desert Safari hel annually in early March. At that time, trails are marked and guides are provided. Unfortunately, it gets very crowded and progress is slow. You an wait hours in line if someone breaks down.