Organizer
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Andrew Walls
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Phone
530-264-6290 -
Email
atwalls@gmail.com -
Andrew is a full time resident of Palm Desert who actually hikes during the summer! Andrew is an avid hiker and backpacker who can be found strolling on and off trails throughout the Coachella Valley, Joshua Tree NP and Grand Canyon NP. In addition to his participation in CVHC activities, Andrew is a Certified California Naturalist and a hike leader with Friends of the Desert Mountains. Prior to moving to the CV in 2017, Andrew was a team leader with the Nevada County Sheriff's Search and Rescue team in Northern California.
Location
Category
MECCA LADDERS CANYON TO BIG PAINTED CANYON
Join us for an exciting voyage through narrow slot canyons and along knife edge ridges with sweeping views of the Mecca Hills, Salton Sea and the Coachella Valley. The trailhead is an hour drive from Rancho Mirage, with the last 3+ miles a rutted desert dirt/sand road. Add driving time to the hike duration for planning. Although the road is relatively smooth, AWD and 4WD with some clearance is nice to have. Car pooling can be arranged if your vehicle is not up to the trip.
Even though this hike and the pace are rated moderate, it has its challenges. There are several dry waterfalls that must be climbed using tall ladders (15-20 ft.). Narrow slot canyons open to wider higher canyons leading to an overlook ridge with a view of the Salton Sea. After proceeding up the ridge for approximately a mile, we drop down into the Big Painted Canyon and wind our way back to the parking lot about two miles away.
4.4 miles, 750 foot elevation gain. Map available here: https://caltopo.com/m/472V2TJ
- Altitude gain: 750 feet (Start 587′, Top 1337′)
- Cumulative altitude gain: 909′ feet
- Distance: 4.41 miles
- Pace: 1.5 avg MPH, 3.5-4 hours
- Terrain: packed trail, rock
- Obstacles: ladders, slopes
- Difficulty rating: Moderate (ladders)
Please email Andrew to sign up for this hike and include your phone number.
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club! Join Now!
