Hayden Springs
Total Miles
4.8
Elevation
580.62 ft
Duration
0.75 Hours
Technical Rating
Best Time
Winter, Fall, Spring
Trail Overview
This trail is an excellent border trail for the area that hits close to and runs through some of the lumpy rock mountains the area is famous for. The trail's eastern section follows the abandoned rail lines for part of it. Some short, steep hill climbs, and ledges may become even more severe after a good rain storm. The trail crosses the abandoned tracks by a large dune area where the route transitions from packed dirt to deep sand. Airing down your tires would be highly recommended in the soft stuff. It can get windy out here based on the lines in the sand. As this route twists and turns, it passes a few decent spots to camp, some with wind blocks and some just out in the open. Plenty of wildlife, from jackrabbits to small birds, flushed out of the cactus. If you are lucky, you may catch a red-tailed hawk circling overhead. Be on the lookout for the desert tortious, and they are protected. There's plenty of plant life, from jojoba plants to cholla and ocotillo. In the springtime, the flowering colors are out of control. One bar of LTE Verizon fades in and out on this trail. This is a high-traffic area for illegal border activity. Be sure to report any suspicious activity to Homeland Security/Border Patrol and use caution when traveling in the area.
Photos of Hayden Springs
Difficulty
Deeper sand and steep hill climb and traditions may be more difficult depending on the time of year. All vehicles entering the Anza Burrego wilderness must be plated and street-legal.