Veterans Pass Cut-off

This trail starts in Arroyo Salado and cuts over to Veterans Pass and Tule Wash, quickly climbing out of the Arroyo Salado Wash and cutting across an open plain where you can see 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. The surface is hard-packed sand with some gravel providing solid traction. There is very little vegetation except for a few desert creosote bushes, ocotillo, and seasonal desert wildflowers scattered throughout. The surface is uneven with lots of ruts, holes, and off-camber sections that demand attention as you navigate. The route cuts by large hills of sandy mud, creating a dramatic backdrop. This is in the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Open Riding Area, the largest in California, where registered OHV and highway legal vehicles are allowed. Despite the remote setting, there is decent cell service available.