Trail Overview

This trail leads to the Dolomite Mine ruins within the Anza Borrego State Park. It begins as a flowy sandy trail and later transitions into a rocky trail as you near the mine. The path is beautifully lined with ocotillo shrubs and other desert plants. The trail is somewhat narrow, easily visible, and has sporadic signage. The Carrizo Badlands provides a scenic backdrop.

Photos of West Dolomite Trail

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Difficulty

Most of this trail is easy, but the first uphill section is loose, rutted, with a 15-18" step up. This short segment is the only area that warrants the intermediate rating.

History

The Dolomite Mine ruins date back to the 1930s. Dolomite marble and magnesium calcium was once mined at this location. Only the concrete foundation remains. The mine is nestled on the outskirts of the Carrizo Badlands.

Technical Rating

Edgar Martinez

Dec 14, 2024

Open

There are some sandy parts and one section where if you’re not paying attention you can miss a turn and end up in a wash that’s super sandy and get pinstripes from the brush. There is one technical section near the top of the mine where it’s a rutted hill climb. You need high clearance and pick a good line. But two stock height 4Wd Tacomas made it up and down just fine. But one Tacoma has factory step bars that got dragged coming down that small obstacle and bent the brackets. So I would go super slow going up/down or take off your step bars if you’re coming out here on stock height vehicle. Then at the very end there is a small lose rocky section that was easy to climb. The view at the top is definitely worth coming up this trail. It’s a fun trail!