26 Wind Caves Loop

SCENERY:

DIFFICULTY:

TRAIL CONDITION:

SOLITUDE:

CHILDREN:

DISTANCE: 1–1.5 miles round trip

HIKING TIME: 1–2 hours

OUTSTANDING FEATURES: Naturally formed hollows and small chambers, and views of the Carrizo badlands

A short, steep trail leads to a series of wind caves once utilized as shelters by Native Americans and offers a viewpoint for overlooking the desert’s interesting landscape. Playful hikers can’t resist climbing inside a cave or two, perhaps posing for a companion’s camera at one of the sand-etched windows in these natural formations.

Directions: From CA 78 at Ocotillo Wells, head south on Split Mountain Road for approximately 8 miles. En route, pass the Elephant Trees Nature Loop turnoff (to the right) and continue to another dirt route on the right marked “Fish Creek Wash.” Drive up the wash, approximately 5 miles (four-wheel drive recommended), and park on the left, where you will see a small sign marked “Wind Caves.”

GPS Coordinates		26 WIND CAVES LOOP
UTM Zone (WGS84)		11S
Easting		582354
Northing		3650874
Latitude–Longitude		N 32º 59’ 35.3992”
		W 116º 7’ 6.5751”

From the dirt parking area, the narrow trail heads to the right, climbing steeply the first 300 feet, then leveling for a brief breather before resuming the uphill pitch. Though well defined, the path may be slippery due to loose rocks. Tread carefully.

At approximately 0.1 mile, the trail splits. Take either side. The paths merge a short distance ahead. Continue over hills and dales for about 0.33 miles, where the first cave formations come into view on the right. Walk a little farther, venturing into and around the caves as much as your energy and curiosity dictate. Native populations once dwelled in these stooped shelters, setting modern man’s mind to wander. Within the cool interiors, sunlight peeks through crevices and naturally formed skylights, making the atmosphere ethereal.

To the left, you’ll see a very steep trail. This climbs sharply for 0.25 miles, ending on a sheer precipice overlooking a deep arroyo. If you choose to navigate this steep offshoot trail, be careful. Not only is the path slick, but the edge at the top is so narrow that a gust of wind might send you flying—and wishing you had wings.

To finish the loop, head up through the center area of the cave complex, and access the trail that moves southwest. You’ll see another small offshoot trail leading to a safer viewpoint. Perhaps spend a few moments enjoying a wonderful view of the Fish Creek area and the magnificent folds of the Carrizo Badlands, then take the trail down. The undulating route turns northwest and passes even more wind caves on the right before it eventually joins the opening trail. Head left, carefully retracing your steps down the steep section to the bottom.