Trail Overview

This out and back trail begins with an awe inspiring view of the US border. There are places to stop and take a quick pic before continuing on the trail. Majority of this trail is rocky terrain and it can be narrow for the first 4.5 miles. The first obstacle you come upon is known as "Axle Breaker" and is a moderately steep rock crawl, high clearance is required. Front and/or rear lockers highly recommended but not required, with proper tire placement and a spotter it can be conquered. After this obstacle, the remainder of the trail is moderate with beautiful views of the Jacumba Wilderness. The end of this trail offers an amazing spot to picnic and take in the scenery of the Valley of the Moon. There are several caves and rock formations to explore AT YOUR OWN RISK. There is also an optional obstacle course adjacent to the Valley of the Moon that has something for all skill levels. Bring plenty of water, snacks, recovery gear, and a radio. This is a remote area so being prepared is vital.

Photos of Valley of the Moon via US Border Wall

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Difficulty

I would rate this trail as an 7-8 based mainly on the 'Axle Breaker' obstacle. The rest of the trail I would rate as a 6-7. Larger full size rigs should be aware of tire placement in the beginning of trail as it can be narrow in spots.

Technical Rating

Cesar l

Oct 08, 2025

Open

Dylan Hassin

May 18, 2025

Open

Jefe Ricardo

Jan 19, 2025

Open

Was able to make it up axle breaker with 4low and a-trac.

Tanner Jacobs-Bonnett

Jan 02, 2025

Open

Marcial Pelayo

Dec 29, 2024

Open

Needed winch pull on one obstacle

J Hoofty

Dec 07, 2024

Open

Entered from exit 77 off the 8. Fun challenging and technical trail. Several groups with stock Subarus and a Rav4 were seen along the trail parked at various locations. 4x4 and clearance definitely required to make it all the way to the end. Several parts of trail have been washed out and have deep holes. Once you make it to the top the trail mellows out and opens up.

Laura Spencer

Dec 01, 2024

Open

If you start the trail near In-Ko-Pah, the drive up the hill is much more rutted out than it has been on previous trips. Rear locker was extremely helpful. The abandoned mines are a fun walk off the trail to explore.

Joshua Bennett

Nov 09, 2024

Open

First time doing the trail. Definitely recommend spotter and high clearance. Quite a few off camber sections. Really fun, perfect weather!

Andy Grewe

Sep 01, 2024

Open

Garrett Moore

Mar 09, 2024

Open

A lot of off camber trails definitely going to find out how much flex your rig has along with clearance on departure angles. Overall a very fun trail has some rock obstacles but nothing crazy and is doable without lockers but easier with them.

AJ Brown

Nov 19, 2023

Open

Deyner Seals

Nov 12, 2023

Open

Alexandro Valdivia

Nov 04, 2023

Open

Bert Huff

Oct 24, 2023

Open

Paul montano

Sep 16, 2023

Open