Upper Diablo Canyon Rd

Upper Diablo Canyon Rd is a short 0.7-mile spur ideal for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, SxSs, and dirt bikes seeking a secluded access point to the northern end of Diablo Canyon near Santa Fe, New Mexico. While the route initially appears to merely lead to a water pump station, it ultimately winds down to a quiet, dry primitive campsite tucked beneath a cliffside. Drivers should expect a technical rating of 3 due to deep dips, side erosion, and an arroyo crossing that can become impassable or significantly more challenging during and after inclement weather. Lower clearance vehicles should avoid this route entirely, as the undulating terrain and potential washouts require solid ground clearance. Starting at an elevation of approximately 5,689 feet and descending gently to 5,641 feet, the trail features a negligible elevation change but demands attentive driving over its unpaved dirt surfaces. At the trail's end, a set of steps over a fence allows hikers to easily walk down to the Diablo Canyon Trail and the Cañada Ancha. This remote destination offers no cellular service, making self-reliance and proper preparation essential for anyone planning to camp or explore the area. The route is best enjoyed during dry seasons, as heavy rains can rapidly transform the arroyo crossings into hazardous obstacles.