Coyote Canyon Trail

Coyote Canyon cuts through the heart of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, following the same water sources that drew Cahuilla Indians and Spanish explorers for centuries. The trail drops through First Crossing, Second Crossing, and Third Crossing—three progressively technical water obstacles that test approach angles and undercarriage clearance. Rocky ledges and embedded boulders demand precise line choice, especially around Tule Tank where desert bighorn sheep still water.

This is solid intermediate 4×4 terrain requiring high clearance and skid plates. Winter and spring offer the best conditions with possible water flow and wildflower blooms, but summer heat makes this dangerous. No permits needed, but the park charges day-use fees. Dispersed camping is available at designated spots. You’ll earn solitude in one of California’s largest state parks, plus genuine desert skills navigating technical terrain that separates weekend warriors from serious desert runners.