Trail Map of Slot Canyon - Anza-Borrego Desert State Wilderness

Easy: 2.8 miles, 1-3 hours

Other Information: Family Friendly

Overview: Slot Canyon is an unmaintained trail off a sand road, far from most visitor traffic. Here, flash floods formed a breathtaking slot canyon. At points, forty-foot high walls arch above a foot-wide canyon floor. The trail is of moderate difficulty if the points are viewed in the order depicted in the guide, but easy if followed in the opposite sequence (thus avoiding a very steep uphill climb from the floor of the canyon mouth). The canyon may also be accessed by off-road vehicle.

Tips: Given the extremely narrow nature of the canyon, the trail is not recommended for agoraphobes or hikers with large backpacks or a bulkier body mass. Although the trailhead is located off paved road, the sandy track is easy for family vehicles to cruise on. Wear shoes with appropriate traction. No dogs are permitted on the trail.

Directions: From Hwy 78 east, turn left on Buttes Pass Road. The sand track is very easy to miss, given that it doesn't bear a regular street sign. Drive 1 mile to a "Y" intersection. Stay to the left and drive 0.8 mi. The road makes a sharp turn to the left but stop and park here.