California's Secret Desert™ – Borrego Springs

Hawk Canyon is located north of of CA 78 off Buttes Pass Road. The many colors of sediments and sand and a dry waterfall make for amazing photo opportunities. Hike “The Slot” in this area. Park at the edge of a shallow valley and walk down into another world – dark and cool even on the hottest days. Beyond Hawk Canyon lies San Felipe Wash, the grand central wash of the badlands, it wanders on for miles and miles. Further to the east, beyond Blow Sand Canyon, lies the Ocotillo Wells Vehicular Recreation Area, a separate park for off-road activities.

Split Mountain is a geological wonder with breathtaking formations around each turn. The wind caves are generally accessible by two wheel drive, and worth the trip. Children love climbing the low hillsides up to the small caves just off the road. And the Elephant Tree loop trail winds through a grove of these unusual pygmy trees – a very pleasant, level walk.

Elephant Knees and Fossil Shell Reefs await you a little further up the road. You'll want four-wheel drive for deeper exploration along this fault line. But with the right vehicle and preparation, Sandstone Canyon and a huge territory opens up for you to the south and west. Don't forget your shovel!