Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
45.00 ft (13.72 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The short San Andreas Trail is a .85 mile trail within the Dos Palmas Preserve leading to the San Andreas Oasis - a stand dozens of thick palm trees growing around a collection of freshwater springs in an otherwise areas of the Colorado Desert.

Probably the most accessible location inside the Preserve, the trail follows a dirt course, heading from the trailhead which is set at an elevation of 45 feet below sea level to the palm trees and a seep spring which is at 90 feet below sea level. The track winds into the desert before entering the grove of trees. It is possible to walk right to the edge of the spring, though the site itself doesn't really have any attractive features or anything. 

Signs point out the correct path, as it intersects with the access road in a couple places. In all, it is a nice walk to an interesting feature, as the desert oasis is interesting to see. 

A small vauilt toilet is the only amenity at the parking area. There is no cost to visit the Preserve, though visitors should be aware that a high clearance vehicle is necessary for the final 1.75 mile stretch of dirt road to the reach the area. Other remnants of the Rancho Dos Palmas property which make up the current Preserve area can be reached by walking while in the area.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall
Winter

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Short easy walk.

Cons

Access is limited to high clearance vehicles.

Trailhead Elevation

-45.00 ft (-13.72 m)

Highest point

-45.00 ft (-13.72 m)

Features

Family friendly
Vault toilet
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California

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