Anza-Borrego Sunrise Hike
Chase the Sunrise at Santa Catarina Monument
Start your day before dawn with a memorable hike to one of the hidden gems of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—the Santa Catarina Monument. As the first light breaks over the horizon, watch the desert awaken, casting golden hues across rugged terrain and expansive desert vistas.
What to Expect:
- An approximately 3.5-mile round-trip hike beginning at Third Crossing in Coyote Canyon (AWD or 4WD vehicles required; carpooling may be available)
- A varied trail including sandy washes, a small stream crossing, a rocky incline, and a former dirt road
- A landmark tied to the 1774 Anza expedition and the historic Santa Catarina Monument
- Breathtaking sunrise views with sweeping panoramas of the desert landscape and the distant Salton Sea
Who Should Attend:
- Early risers looking for a unique desert experience
- Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts eager to capture the desert at sunrise
- History enthusiasts interested in early California expeditions like the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition
REGISTER TODAY!
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 4:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Location: Meet at the entrance to Coyote Canyon and carpool/caravan to the trailhead
Cost:
ABF Member: $25 Not a member? Join today for as little as $35 and save!
Non-Member: $30
Student: $15
Cancellation & Scholarships: Please see our FAQs page to read our cancellation policy and learn about scholarship options.
Hike Leader:
Tim Mielcarek is the Vice President of Anza Borrego Foundation’s Board of Trustees and is a southern California native with a lifelong connection to nature and a deep commitment to conservation. Raised in Vista, near Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, he was introduced to the natural world by his parents Jeanne and Eugene Mielcarek, both passionate conservationists. This early exposure fostered a lasting appreciation for the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, a very special place throughout his life. In April 2024, he earned his California Naturalist Certification through ABF and University of California. With his husband Brian, a longtime public educator, they have lived in Palm Desert since 2002 and locally enjoy wilderness hiking, mountain biking, and ABF-sponsored events.
