Arroyo Tapiado & Arroyo Seco del Diablo Loop

Bridge Canyon	Slim Slot Canyon
Distance: 16.5 miles, loop Hiking Time: 8 hours Elevation Gain/Loss: 600′/600′ Difficulty: Strenuous

Directions: From Interstate 8 at Ocotillo, drive 22 miles northwest on Highway S-2 to mile 43.1, where the unpaved road to Palm Springs and Vallecito Creek goes east. Drive along the main wash (usually suitable for conventional cars), after about 1 mile when the spur road to Palm Springs forks left. At 4.5 miles from S-2 you’ll come to the entrance road into Arroyo Tapiado, this is your starting point.

Follow the wheel tracks in Arroyo Tapiado north across the low-lying hills. About 2 miles up the wash the canyon walls begin to get huge. Arroyo Tapiado widens after 4 miles and sets up a straighter course northwest. The canyon divides at 6.3 miles; take the right fork.

Following the road signed for Arroyo Diablo. At 6.7 miles, that road goes up a large slope to the right and meanders southeast to join Arroyo Seco del Diablo at 9 miles.

Between 11 and 13 miles there are many interesting tributaries to explore if you have time . The one at 12.3 miles (west side) divides into a maze of narrow slot canyons chock-full of concretions. (leave them as they are, even the rocks are protected in the state park).

Down near the mouth of Arroyo Diablo are some mesquite groves and a small seep in the floor of the canyon. When you emerge onto flat land just beyond the mouth, you can save time and distance on foot by leaving the road: Veer right and head cross-country southwest along the base of some low hills. You’ll merge into the Vallecito Creek Road, which will take you back to your car.

Note:
There are many caves to explore (over 22 mud caves have been recorded), but a word of warning. Heavy Rains and Flash Floods will leave you trapped and in serious trouble.

Do not walk on top of the caves, along the ridges or in areas where the ground may cave in. These hills are made of mud and can be very unstable.

Additionally keep an eye for sink holes and loose ground if you stray from the road/trail.

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