Glorietta Canyon

Tucked into the Pinion Mountains a few miles south of Borrego Springs is a beautiful hiking location full of intrigue called Glorietta Canyon.  Along Borrego Springs Road near mile marker 9, take the narrow dirt road headed south.  Continue south/west a few miles until you reach the trail head (marked with a sign).  The wash and the canyon both offer a scenic day hike.  A nice 5 mile hike will take you on a loop through the canyon and back into the wash, or consider a shorter out and back hike.  Keep your eyes open for a variety of desert plants, especially during the spring!

A local favorite. This one of the lesser known, but very accessible, hikes in the Park. Easy to get to from Borrego Springs. One mile, moderate, uphill hike through a picturesque canyon. Excellent geology on display. Great introduction to desert flora. Look for ocotillo, cholla cactus. jojoba and barrel cactus. Wonderful views at the end while hiking along the canyon.  

The turnoff is at mile 8.6 on Borrego Springs Road. About 3.5 miles from Christmas Circle. After you pass the fenced water pump on the right side of the road turn right onto the second jeep road. Drive straight (south) for .9 miles then turn right (west). Drive .3 miles then turn left (south). Then drive .5 mile and then turn right (west). Drive another 1.5 mis and park where the road ends. Easier to follow  when you are on the jeep road than than directions suggest. The road is fairly well traveled. It is easy to spot where and when to turn. Four wheel drive not necessary. Jeep road is flat. Just watch out for soft sandy spots.  

The trail begins at the west end of the parking area. Look for the trail that goes up the narrow canyon. It is about 0.5 mile to the top. Wonderful views from the top and along the canyon. Excellent geology on display. Return the way you came.