Trail Overview
From the Fidel Beach Route, this trail extends another five miles along the shoreline towards the town of El Socorro, offering a peaceful ride where you're unlikely to encounter many people, aside from the occasional fisherman or stone gatherer, identified by bags at the top of the beach. After a few miles of serene beach driving, you'll reach a narrow stretch between the tide and towering sand dune cliffs, where extra caution is essential. At high tide, the water may reach the base of the cliffs, leaving little room for safe passage, so careful planning is crucial. As you near El Socorro, the beach becomes rocky near the water's edge, signaling the inland turn, where you'll find pull-off areas and a nice seating spot. The trail then winds for about half a mile, leading up to Highway One through this quaint little sea village.
Difficulty
Use caution where the tide can reach the base of the cliffs, making it unsafe to travel during high tide. Ensure the tide is low or receding before attempting this section. If the water is near the rocks below the cliffs, turn around and head back. Beyond this point, the route is a straightforward beach drive followed by a dirt road, and most vehicles with decent ground clearance should have no trouble completing the journey. Plan your trip to avoid high tide, and the rest of the trail should provide an easy and enjoyable ride.
