Tectonic Gorge Trail

Trail Overview

Welcome to the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreational Area, the largest SVRA in California with more than 85,000 acres. OWSVRA is over 130 square miles with hundreds of miles of desert track open to all forms of off-highway vehicles. The SVRA borders the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park with many of the trails transiting between both areas. Only street-legal vehicles are allowed in the ABDSP. Tectonic Gorge Trail is a 5.8-mile point-to-point trail rated 3 of 10 and considered one of the most scenic trails in the SVRA. As with most trails within the OWSVRA, the track is predominately sand and hard-packed desert soil. Tectonic Gorge trail is typically run from west to east but can be run in either direction. Crossing a short plateau, the wash drops into the gorge for a fun twist and turn drive and will eventually come out at the north end of Cross Over Trail where the Truckhaven Training Area is located. The narrowest sections will have bypass paths to navigate around other vehicles. The terrain varies from hard-packed and small rocks to soft sand, with small dirt mounds, dips, berms, and ruts. The trail winds through the gorge flanked by dirt small hills and steep canyon walls. Most of the trail is relatively flat with a mild incline ascending from the canyon gorge onto the desert plateau. Towards the eastern end of the trail is an information sign about the filming of the X-Files series finale. The actual site was blown up during the filming and over the decade the terrain has reverted to the original state. Now only a sign remains to describe the events that took place in this location. Unlike most trails in the SVRA, there are mileage markers every tenth of a mile on this trail. The Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (OWSVRA) is administered by the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, now commonly referred to as California State Parks. Travel within the OWSVRA is generally unrestricted, relying on the driver's sense of responsibility for protecting natural resources. There are no entrance or camping fees here, and open camping is permitted for up to 30 days per calendar year. All vehicles operated off-highway on public lands in California are required to be (1) street-licensed or (2) registered as an off-highway vehicle (OHV). Purchase of a California Nonresident permit is required: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=25669. Whether a beginner or an adrenaline junkie, you'll find something to your liking in the SVRA (hiking, dirt bike, ATV, UTV, dune buggies, or 4x4s). It is open to the public 7 days a week and 24 hours a day, go out and ride whenever you want. The off-road season is usually between the cooler months of October and May, so these months are usually the most crowded. Cell phone service is intermittent. Vehicle repair shops, telephones, groceries, hotels, motels, RV parks, and restaurants are available in the surrounding communities of Borrego Springs, Ocotillo Wells, and Salton City. Fuel is available in the communities of Borrego Springs and Salton City.

Photos of Tectonic Gorge Trail

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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