Coyote Canyon Closure Update
Due to lingering storm damage from Tropical Storm Hilary, the Coyote Canyon Wilderness Area in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park continues to be closed to all vehicles beyond the closure gate, just before the “Third Crossing.”
Tropical Storm Hilary, a very rare tropical storm in California, brought significant rainfall to the region, and some portions of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (more than others) experienced extreme flash flooding. The storm caused intense localized flooding and significant road/trail washouts in most Coyote Canyon Wilderness Areas, particularly after the “third crossing” gate. Due to the storm path and concentrated rain in specific desert drainage watersheds, the flash flooding caused by the storm washed out large portions of the State Park Road through the wilderness and Coyote Creek itself, rerouted into the old road – making the area impassable for vehicles and impacting park infrastructure.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park staff is designing a modified road reroute to address the storm damage and ensure safe access to the wilderness area. Given the sensitivity of the cultural area and wilderness ecosystem that the Coyote Canyon Road passes through, this rerouting process may take considerable time. Still, we are committed to solving this issue so you can fully enjoy the Coyote Canyon Wilderness Areas again as soon as we can. There is no set reopening date for full access beyond the closure gate, as ongoing road reroutes and road improvements are necessary. Visitors are encouraged to follow Anza-Borrego Foundation and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on social media for the latest trail openings and closures updates.
As a reminder – Coyote Canyon Road is open to vehicle access until the closed gate at “Third Crossing.” The public may park at the turnaround lot near the closure gate. Beyond the gate, the Coyote Canyon Wilderness Areas remains open for day-use hiking access. However, “Sheep Camp” backcountry campsites are closed until further notice. Also, overnight camping or other wilderness recreation beyond the closure gate is not permitted until further notice. Please adhere to all Leave-No-Trace approved principles when visiting the Park. For further inquiries, please contact the Colorado Desert District office at 760-767-4037.
Update from Danny McCamish, Senior Environmental Scientist Colorado Desert District California State Parks. Photo: Anza-Borrego Foundation
