Palo Verde Wash

Trail Overview

Palo Verde Wash is a 10.7-mile point-to-point trail rated 3 of 10 within both the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area. The north end of the trail starts within the ABDSP at mile marker 32 on State Road 22, also known as Borrego-Salton Seaway. The south end of the trails meets Benson Lake Loop on the north side of the Ocotillo Airport and is a short trip over to Highway 78. The Palo Verde Wash is a wide track that forms part of the eastern boundary of the ABDSP. Vehicular traffic on this section of the trail is restricted to street-legal vehicles only. Once it crosses the boundary into the OWSVRA, the wash is open to all forms of motorized vehicles. The wash is relatively flat, mostly a sand track with some sections of hardpacked dirt. While in the ABDSP section, vehicles must stay within the wash or take approved trails. The OWSVRA is considered an open vehicle range and cross-country travel is allowed using good judgment to avoid sensitive areas. After rain storms in the mountains or the local area, the wash is well known for mud, as many of the side canyons and washes feed into Palo Verde. Major trails that Palo Verde Wash crosses include Short Wash, Ella Wash, and Cut Across trails. All canyons and washes in the area are subject to flash floods. Travelers should watch the weather reports for the mountains to the west. There are cell towers along S22 and Highway 78, so reception is available through much of the trail. The nearest services are located in Borrego Springs to the northwest and Salton City to the northeast. Offroad travel within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is restricted to street-legal vehicles only.

Photos of Palo Verde Wash

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Difficulty

The trail consists of loose rocks, dirt, and sand with some slick rock surfaces and mud holes possible. No steps are higher than 12 inches. 4WD may be required, and aggressive tires are a plus.

Technical Rating