Donohoe Loop-Mocogo Ranch Trail

Trail Overview

Donohoe Loop-Mocogo Ranch Trail is an 8.2-mile point-to-point trail rated 4 of 10 located in San Diego County. The Donohoe Loop is located entirely within BLM-managed Open Space that can be utilized for OHV driving, camping, backpacking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The loop can be accessed from the Otay Mountain Truck Trail or Marion Road. This scenic loop is best run in late spring when the wildflowers are in bloom, but it is accessible year-round. The trail includes three major features; "The Steep", the rock garden, and the Mocogo Ranch House. There is a long steep rocky drop that is known by locals by several names: "The Steep", "Mocogo Slide", or "Mocogo Waterfall." The slide is a relatively straight trail that drops about 300 feet in roughly 1,000 horizontal feet. It has multiple cross-cut washouts that can pull a vehicle sideways if the driver is not careful. The Rock Garden is a 1,000-foot-long rocky trail, with rocks up to 18-20 inches in size. The ruins of the Mocogo Ranch House are located at the intersection of the loop. Rancho Mocogo is located in Sycamore Canyon about a half mile west of Donohoe Mountain. The stone cabin was built in 1928. The cabin burned in a fire and the property is now part of the open space maintained by the Bureau of Land Management. Cell phone service is intermittent. The nearest services are located to the west in the suburbs of San Diego.

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Difficulty

The rail consists of loose rock, dirt, and sand with some slickrock surfaces. There is some erosion, washes, gulches, and rock steps no higher than 18 inches. Tall tires (33+ inches) and limited slip are a plus. 4WD is required. Enhanced suspension travel and good ground clearance are helpful. Good driving skills are a plus.

Technical Rating