Hellhole Canyon Trail Guide
Hellhole Canyon Trail is a moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike located in Anza Borrego Desert State Park, California. This trail offers hikers stunning views of rugged canyons and a diverse desert landscape, including ocotillo, cacti, and wildflowers in the spring.
The trail features a gradual ascent leading to a beautiful oasis, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a scenic escape in Southern California’s desert terrain.
Trail Details
| Trail type | Out-and-back |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Length | 3 miles |
| Elevation gain/loss | 500 feet / -500 feet |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 33.245252, -116.423860 |
| Location | Anza Borrego Desert State Park |
| Season | October to May (summer is extremely hot) |
| Information Number | (760) 767-4205 |
Getting to Hellhole Canyon Trailhead
Starting from Borrego Springs, California, head south on Borrego Springs Rd for 0.5 miles. Turn right onto T Anchor Dr for 0.1 miles. Take the first right onto Country Club Rd and continue for 0.8 miles. Turn left onto Palm Canyon Dr and go 0.9 miles. Finally, turn left onto Montezuma Valley Rd and continue for 0.8 miles; the Hellhole Canyon Trailhead will be on the right. This is the closest trailhead to the canyon.
Alternately, you can start from the state park parking lot, which a bit of a longer hike. To get to this trailhead, don’t turn at Montezuma Valley Road, and instead continue straight until you come to the parking area.
The Trail
Starting at the Hellhole Canyon Trailhead, the path begins on a well-defined trail surrounded by the unique desert flora characteristic of Anza Borrego. As you make your way into the canyon, expect a gradual ascent with a few rocky sections that may require careful footing, particularly after rainfall.
You’ll notice the vegetation changes as you ascend and the canyon becomes narrower, transitioning from sparse desert shrubs to denser plant life closer to the oasis.
As you approach the oasis, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and the expansive desert below. The lush greenery surrounding the water source offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding arid landscape.
The return trip follows the same route, allowing hikers to enjoy the beauty of the trail from a different perspective as the sunlight changes throughout the day.
Camping
For those wishing to extend their stay in the area, check out our Anza-Borrego camping guide. Nearby Borrego Palm Canyon Campground is the closest camping. Another canyon hike that brings you to an oasis starts from this camping area, Borrego Palm Canyon Trail.
