Near Worm
A high desert sunset along Worm.
Near Worm
View along the hill ridge of Worm / Worm Shortcut.
Near Worm
I love you too, trail.
Near Worm
Beginning of trail
Near Worm
Creosote bush in bloom and Franklin Mountains

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Worm

3.0 (2 Ratings)
Switchback from a hilltop ridge into a desert gulch on this winding trail.
1.4
mi
Distance
28
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
WildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.4mi
Distance
28ft
Elevation Gain
269ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
4,454ft
High Point
4,174ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Beginning from the northern terminus with El Refri, Worm meanders southwest on a hilltop ridgeline, passing between numerous desert plants and cacti. The singletrack here is generally flat and free of rocks. After about a quarter mile, a turnoff to the west onto El Paso del Norte follows the ridge, while Worm splits off onto a new one to the southwest as an arroyo opens between the two. A half mile further, Worm takes a sudden switchback turn to the right; Worm Shortcut continues straight ahead. A quick descent of about a hundred feet places the trail into a desert gulch. From here, the trail becomes a bit more technical, weaving west between hills before eventually meeting up again with El Refri and El Paso del Norte. The trail then hugs the hillside as it circles counterclockwise, ending at the junction of Worm Shortcut and Lost Dog Trail.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Brendan Ross