This will be an exciting off-road trip.  We will start at the isolated “Canyon Sin Nombre”.  High clearance vehicles are required to negotiate the twisting, turning, sandy wash as we wind our way though 9 million years of geologic upheavals and erosion along the Elsinore Fault.  We will explore some of the more spectacular caves of Arroyo Tapiado in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and experience fabulous slot canyons that are narrow enough to touch the sides yet tower nearly 100 feet above.  

This desert area is perfect for California winter recreation & is located near the south end of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park along S-2. Local mountains’ seismic forces created the fault that runs beneath this region & forces water up to the desert surface. A decent water supply also supports plant life & wildlife.  Bow Willow is a primitive campground that has shade structures at each site.  Water is available at a central location, but must be treated prior to consumption (boiled or filtered).

Winter in the desert can be very cold, so plan accordingly.  Layering warm clothes with a windproof/waterproof layer on the outside is very effective for keeping warm.  Consider adding a blanket or liner to your sleeping bag if you have a light one.  Nighttime lows can range in the 30’s and 40’s.  Daytime highs can range from the 50’s to the 80’s.  This will be a “fair weather only” campout.  Because the primary activity is traveling through washes and caves created by rain flood waters, if there is even the threat of rain, we will reschedule this outing for another weekend.   

This is going to be a great adventure combining off-road driving and cave exploration along with car camping.  Don't miss this one!

 Please note date change from original calendar.