Anza Borrego

Exploring The Slot and The Wind Caves in Anza Borrego

We were invited by our friends John and Elena to meet up for a day hike out in the Anza Borrego Desert. Our destination was a windswept area known as The Slot which is a narrow passageway through the eroded badlands below Borrego Mountain.

After a short drive from Jon and Elena’s Borrego Spring’s home we exited the pavement onto the soft sand dirt road, and bounced our way towards the trail head. We parked the vehicles and followed the trail of footprints leading down into the maze below.

Immediately the sandstone walls rose around us and we found ourselves squeezing through the ever narrowing labyrinth. At certain points we even had to turn sideways to fit thru before continuing further into The Slot.

Mary in The Slot - Anza Borrego
Mary in The Slot – Anza Borrego Desert
The Slot Natural Rock Bridge
Natural Arch high above our heads in the slot

The highlight of the hike is the rock arch, precariously wedged between the two adjacent walls high above our heads. We found ourselves moving a little quicker as we passed beneath it.
😲

We finished off the hike with a quick sprint up the hill to marvel at some of the wind caves and weird formations above The Slot.

Checking out the wind caves above The Slot in Anza Borrego.
Checking out the wind caves.
Group enjoying the view of the Borrego Badlands after hiking The Slot in Anza Borrego
Group enjoying lunch and the view of the Borrego Badlands

Once at the top we decided it was a great place to have lunch and enjoy the amazing view of the badlands far below.

Here is a short video of Mary navigating her way through The Slot

Full Photo Album From Our Trip Through The Slot

The Slot Trail Information And Tips

  • Start your hike early. It can get busy on the weekends and parking is limited.
  • GPS Coordinates : 33.18213, -116.21417 (33° 10′ 55.7″N 116° 12′ 51″W)
  • Bring plenty of water.
  • Do not attempt this hike if there is chance of rain.
  • No dogs are allowed on this trail 🐕