Arroyo Salado Loop

The Arroyo Salado Loop is a fun 30.1-mile journey that offers a blend of remote washes and rugged dirt roads. Beginning near the Salton Sea, the route winds southwest into the heart of Anza-Borrego and Ocotillo Wells, making for a diverse and scenic adventure.

Arroyo Salado Wash, on the northern edge of Ocotillo Wells OHV and Anza Borrego State Park, features an east-west trail that is a haven for explorers and nature enthusiasts. This trail is renowned for its rugged beauty, featuring dramatic mud cliffs and panoramic views of the Anza Borrego Badlands. 

TRAIL EXPERIENCE
Backpackers embarking on this trail should be aware that it is a popular overlanding route. As such, you can expect to encounter some vehicle traffic along the way, adding a unique dynamic to your hiking experience. Approximately halfway through the loop, you will find the Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground. This spot provides basic camping facilities, including unimproved campsites and a vault toilet. For those interested in a shorter journey, this campground is a convenient point to arrange a shuttle, offering the option to complete a point-to-point hike instead of the full loop.

ELEVATION AND TERRAIN
The route stretches from the Salton Sea to the Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground, encompassing an overall elevation gain of 1178 feet. The trail mainly traverses sandy terrain, which, coupled with minimal elevation gain, makes it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.
Given the sandy conditions and open terrain, it’s advisable to prepare for sun exposure and carry ample water.

STARGAZING
As an International Dark Sky Park, Anza-Borrego offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, with minimal light pollution enhancing the clarity of the night sky.

ANZA BORREGO STATE PARK
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park's rugged landscape has been shaped by erosion, which continuously sculpts its uplifted mountains. 

SEASONS
The best time to embark on this hike is from late fall to early spring, as the lack of shade can lead to extreme temperatures in the warmer months.

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING
Camping is allowed within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park backcountry. Visitors are limited to 30 days of camping in any calendar year within the park. For more detailed rules and regulations on backcountry camping, visit: Anza-Borrego State Park Backcountry Camping.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Bureau of Land Management: https://www.blm.gov/visit/santa-rosa-wilderness.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638.