Blythe Intaglios Trail

Trail Overview

15 miles north of Blythe, California, on SR-95 is the entrance to the Blythe Intaglios, six large figures/geoglyphs that were carved into the ground between 450-2,000 years ago along the Colorado River. While best viewed from the air, parts of the intaglios can be seen from the ground. There are small hiking trails in the area and the surrounding Big Maria Mountains are beautiful. This 1-mile out-and-back trail is slightly rocky but suitable for a stock sedan or SUV if you drive carefully. Watch out for flash flooding if there are heavy rains. There are several large pull-outs where you can park and walk closer to the intaglios. Do not drive off the trail, which is fenced on both sides, to prevent any further damage to the surrounding area. Cell service (AT&T and Mint) is available on most of the trail; service is spotty closer to the Big Maria Mountains. There are no bathrooms in this area. No fees nor a Colorado River Indian Tribe (CRIT) permit is required as this entire route is on BLM land, not the reservation.

Photos of Blythe Intaglios Trail

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Difficulty

This trail is mostly larger pieces of gravel and hard-packed dirt/sand. There is a small, gentle grade in the first 0.3 miles. Both sides of the trail are fenced. Watch for larger rocks that may have washed down the small grade during the rainy season. Use caution if it's actively raining, as this area is known for flash floods.

History

The Blythe Intaglios, also called geoglyphs, are well-known in the Colorado Desert, where more than 200 intaglios have been found. This area is home to the only known desert intaglios in North America.

Technical Rating