Trail Overview

This trail starts off at BLM 236 and quickly climbs out of the wash, gaining elevation right from the beginning. The surface is packed sand and loose sand with some loose rocks here and there, creating mixed traction conditions. You'll enjoy absolutely beautiful views of the painted hills with lots of layers of different colors that keep getting better the farther you go, making this a scenic highlight. As you continue to climb upward, you're rewarded with great views of the open desert below toward Plaster City, El Centro, and Mexicali spreading out in the distance. There are a couple of spots where ruts from washes cut across the trail, dropping in up to 12 inches and creating minor vertical obstacles.

Photos of Painted Hills - BLM 214

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Difficulty

This is an easy-to-moderate trail with the quick climb out of the wash requiring momentum. The packed and loose sand with some loose rocks demands attention to traction. The ruts from washes cutting across the trail with drops up to 12 inches are manageable obstacles that require approach angle awareness but aren't overly technical. The scenic rewards make any challenges worthwhile on this beautiful route through the painted hills.

Technical Rating