Boca Las Barrancas

Trail Overview

The trail from La Barranca offers a mix of desert terrain and coastal beauty, beginning just outside town near a landfill--a common feature on the outskirts of many small towns. Quickly leaving this behind, the route skirts around an airstrip and transitions into a soft, sandy path with flowing S-turns through the desert. Sand depth ranges from three to six inches in many sections, making airing down tires essential and having 4WD highly recommended. Vegetation lines the trail, and while some scratching to your vehicle is possible, the effort is rewarded with glimpses of ocean views before they are obscured by towering sand dunes. Multiple side trails lead to the estuary, where the desert narrows but remains passable for full-sized vehicles. Upon reaching the estuary, the trail winds alongside the river before descending to the water's edge. Firm tracks were stable enough for vehicles at the time of mapping, but conditions in wetlands often change, so caution is advised. As the route continues onto the beach, the sand deepens, requiring extra care to avoid getting stuck in this remote area. Despite the challenges, the stunning ocean and estuary views at the end make this trail a worthwhile adventure for the well-prepared traveler.

Photos of Boca Las Barrancas

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Difficulty

This route presents three key challenges that demand careful preparation and skill. First, certain sections feature sand up to six inches deep with inclines. Without properly airing down tires and engaging 4WD, you could risk getting stuck. Second, the estuary or river area is particularly hazardous, as vehicles can sink unexpectedly. Always walk this section first to assess conditions, proceed slowly, and remain mindful of constantly changing tides. Finally, the beach itself has exceptionally deep sand, requiring advanced sand-driving skills, proper recovery equipment, and ideally a second vehicle for added safety. Addressing these challenges with preparation and caution will help ensure a safe and successful journey.

Technical Rating