Photo of Hawk Canyon
Hawk Canyon

Visiting the Desert in Summer

Particularly in summer, the desert is a place to be taken seriously. Don't pass it off as just another walk in the park. You can expect most of Anza-Borrego to be hot, lonely, and short on services like tow trucks, gas stations, air-conditioned cafes, and people to come to your rescue. Most tow-trucks do not go into areas of deep sand.

In the northern desert, along County Road S-22, there are service stations and cafes in Borrego Springs and Salton City. In the southern desert, along Interstate-8, there are service stations and cafes in Ocotillo and El Centro. On Highway 78 across the center of the desert, the cafes and filling stations are likely to be open only when there is activity at the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area. There are service stations and cafes in Julian in the mountains on Highway 78.

If the worst happens and you find your vehicle stuck in the sand, there may not be anyone nearby to help pull you out. The same is true if you drive over a rock which ruptures your car's oil pan. Your cell phone may not work. The automobile club may not be able to help you.

The best way approach the desert is to arm yourself is with a knowledge of the area and with water and a respect for the heat and sun.

Knowledge of the area means knowing the major blacktop roads across the desert (S-22, Highway 78, and Interstate-8) and S-2 which goes up and down the desert. It means having an idea as to where they are and how to get to back to them if you drive onto a dirt road or jeep trail.

Knowledge of the area also means looking for soft sand before you pull off the pavement, even onto the soft shoulder. Take a look first (get out of your car if you can) to be sure the sand is firm enough to support your vehicle.

If you are thinking of driving a dirt road or jeep trail that you are unfamiliar with, the safest approach is to walk it before you drive it. If you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, do not assume you can't get stuck.

As for the drinking water you carry, it will get warm or even hot. Get used to the taste. Drink plenty of water before you leave your vehicle. Carry more water than you think you will need. Have some water waiting for you when you return to your vehicle. Avoid alcohol if you are going to be out in the heat.

Respect the heat and the sun. If you decide to take hike, try to do it as early in the morning as possible during the coolest part of the day. Late afternoon and early evening are also good times. Be sure to carry a flashlight. When you set out, make a note of the time. Keep your walks short. Don't walk until you are exhausted and then walk back. Save some of your energy for the return trip.

Other Advice

If you go out alone, leave word with someone where you are going!
Before you go out, get a good map and study it. Know where you are going.
Be sure you have plenty of drinking water and extra food.