Tank Pass

Trail Overview

This trail starts off of I-10, continuing through the desert to someone pretty fun climb that gets you on top of a ridge where you work your way around to Donna's Overlook. There are three different headstone markers in this area, as well as a couple of dolls propped up on the tallest peak. There are great views of the area. General Patton trained with his tanks in this area and the pass is named for this. His camp was in the flat country to the north, but this trail does not go to the location. Nice scenery and some unusual attractions. This trail can be run either way equally well, but we started in Vicksburg. Started out crossing the southern tip of the Granite Wash Mountains and passed by numerous old mines. Dropped out of the mountains and followed north along the eastern face of them. Nice stands of saguaro. The "Saguaro Squeeze" suggests to us that this portion of the trail was never constructed as a road - someone simply started driving across the desert.

Difficulty

Uneven, rutted dirt trail with loose rocks, sand, erosion, and washes. Potential water crossings up to 18" deep, mud holes, and obstacles up to 2 feet, including ledges and short, steep grades.

Technical Rating