Trail Overview
Yarborough Pass is located around mile 15 of Padre Island National Seashore and cuts through the dunes from the Gulf side over to the bay side of the island. The trail begins with deep, loose sand through the dunes before transitioning into a more hard-packed dirt surface farther in. Permanent ruts run through much of the trail once past the dunes, giving the route a rougher feel as it heads toward the bay. The trail eventually leads to areas with shade and direct access to the water, making it a popular spot for launching kayaks and spending time along the bay side of the island.
Difficulty
On this trail, you’ll encounter deep loose sand at the entrance through the dunes, where momentum and 4x4 are required to avoid getting stuck. Further in, the trail becomes more packed dirt but contains permanent ruts that can be somewhat deep and rough for vehicles without adequate ground clearance. After rain, these rutted sections can hold water and become muddy or impassable in low-lying areas. The combination of loose sand, deep rutting, and changing weather conditions can make this trail challenging, depending on conditions. Overall, this trail is moderate to difficult and requires proper clearance and traction.
