Mortero Wash

Total Miles 8.2
Technical Rating
3 Easy
Best Time Spring, Fall, Winter
Trail Type High-Clearance 4x4 Trail
Accessible By
Open Trail Map

Trail Overview

This trail leads from the main paved highway of Sweeney pass road into the network of trails in the area. It begins as rough washboard and crushed rock and quickly becomes really packed sand as it weaves its way up the wash. There are a few tight pinch points with massive boulders in the wash. There's all manner of desert plant life to observe as you work your way up the canyon. At the boundary of the travelable wash, you will find plenty of signs and posts noting that a left turn must be made. There are a series of fun washed-out and off-camber climbs as you continue your way up the canyon. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled if you are looking for a camping spot for the night. You'll see a few, but you may miss the turnout if you are not looking for it. No worries if you don't find one. The trail ends at the San Diego and Eastern Arizona Rail stations ruins, where there are a few places to camp and some incredible old remains to explore. If you like graffiti, it's an excellent stop to look around. From here, the trail splits in many directions. It depends on what kind of adventure you are looking for.Two bars of Verizon cell service fade to one the further you go, with none down in the wash. 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 Mortero Wash

Difficulty

The lower section of the trail is a sandy wash. It's generally well-packed and firm but may require airing down after a storm or after the wash has run. Past that, the trail is hard-packed dirt with easy transitions and small washouts to cross. There are a few places to pull out to allow oncoming to pass.

History

This trail leads from the main paved highway of Sweeney pass road into the network of trails in the area. It begins as rough washboard and crushed rock and quickly becomes really packed sand as it weaves its way up the wash. There are a few tight pinch points with massive boulders in the wash. There's all manner of desert plant life to observe as you work your way up the canyon. At the boundary of the travelable wash, you will find plenty of signs and posts noting that a left turn must be made. There are a series of fun washed-out and off-camber climbs as you continue your way up the canyon. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled if you are looking for a camping spot for the night. You'll see a few, but you may miss the turnout if you are not looking for it. No worries if you don't find one. The trail ends at the San Diego and Eastern Arizona Rail stations ruins, where there are a few places to camp and some incredible old remains to explore. If you like graffiti, it's an excellent stop to look around. From here, the trail splits in many directions. It depends on what kind of adventure you are looking for.Two bars of Verizon cell service fade to one the further you go, with none down in the wash.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

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AJ Brown
Mar 31, 2025
Open
Edgar Martinez
Dec 14, 2024
Open
The trail entrance at S2 is definitely open. Pretty fun trail with some washboard so airing down helped smooth out the ride. There are some sandy sections so 4wd is recommended. A few small parts where you flex your ride a tiny bit but my stock DCLB Tacoma handled it so pretty much any 4wd truck/SUV can handle this easy trail. Made it to the water tower area where there’s a small trestle for some nice shade and nice spot for pics.
J Hoofty
Dec 07, 2024
Open
Wash was closed with signs and barricades.
Avalanche In San Diego
Mar 17, 2024
Open
The trail is really just a dirt road from S2 almost to the railroad track. Hikers take it in Camries and Teslas.
Kenneth K
Aug 18, 2023
Open

Mortero Wash Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance

Mortero Wash Map

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