Adventure Hike: Mortero Palms to Goat Canyon Trestle
Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 5 a.m.-3 p.m. (end time is approximate)
Location: Meet at the ABF Administrative Office at The Mall (587 Palm Canyon Dr. #122, Borrego Springs, CA, 92004).
The group will then carpool and/or caravan to the trailhead at the Mortero Palms parking area. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are required to reach the trailhead; carpool options available.
Cost:
ABF Members: $35
Non-members: $45
Students: $20
*Please note that as the Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit organization, all program costs are used to support current and future education programs, including subsidized programs that seek to increase access to the outdoors.
Scholarships: A limited number of scholarships are available for those with financial hardship. If you’d like to request a scholarship, please reach out to [email protected] with a two–three paragraph description about why you’d like to attend this program and your need for a scholarship.
Description:
Join us for our first Adventure Hike of the season – a thrilling 5.8-mile hike to the Goat Canyon Trestle, an engineering marvel tucked away in Carrizo Gorge at the south end of the Park! This hike is perfect for experienced adventurers, offering not only rock scrambling and bouldering but also breathtaking views and a journey through history. We’ll start with a scenic walk through desert landscapes, leading to a peaceful palm grove where you’ll discover morteros, grinding holes left by the Kumeyaay people. From there, we’ll ascend steep slopes and make our way to the iconic Goat Canyon Trestle, the largest wooden trestle in the world, built as part of the early 20th-century “Impossible Railroad.”
This 6-hour hike promises a memorable day full of challenges and rewarding sights. With 2,200 feet of elevation gain, it’s important to come prepared with sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended for added stability. Get ready to embark on a true desert adventure and experience the magic of this historical landmark firsthand!
We can’t wait to explore this incredible trail with you and kick off the season with such an iconic hike!
Registration:
Space is limited! Please register in advance
Hike Leaders:
Matt Nagy
Matt is a San Diego native who had the unique experience of growing up across the world. Before graduating high school, he lived in five different countries, including the USA. His global travels have given him the opportunity to see much of the planet, but without a doubt, San Diego County (especially Anza Borrego) remains his favorite place. In his free time, Matt enjoys long hikes, bike rides, and live music. When he has a few weeks off, he embarks on extended adventures such as river trips, bikepacking, or backpacking. Having spent many months under the stars, Matt is always planning his next adventure. He is excited to explore and appreciate the wonders of Anza Borrego with others, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Stacy Valdez
Born and raised between Thermal and the San Fernando Valley, Stacy Valdez’s journey is marked by a blend of academic achievements, professional roles, and a deep commitment to social causes. With a career rooted in education and community engagement, Stacy oversees outreach, volunteer management, and supports the education department at the Anza-Borrego Foundation. She also teaches the Certified Interpretive Host/Guide elective at Borrego Springs High School, where she helps students earn certification from the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) and coordinates local internships to provide hands-on experience.
Since 2018, Stacy has been involved in humanitarian efforts with Border Kindness, reflecting her passion for the outdoors, advocacy, and cultural studies. A dedicated desert hiker, she has explored Anza-Borrego extensively, fostering her love for the environment from an early age in the mountains of the San Fernando Valley and later in the deserts of the Coachella Valley. Stacy is committed to promoting the outdoors to underserved youth and their communities, and she is excited to share the wonders of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park with others.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation requests must be received at least seven days before the event if you wish to receive a refund. Refunds cannot be issued for cancellations made after the seven-day deadline. Please note that ABF may cancel a program due to inclement weather or low attendance. If ABF cancels a program, we will issue a full refund or credit.
