Adventure Hike: Sunset Mountain
Discover the wild beauty of Anza-Borrego on a strenuous, cross-country climb up Sunset Mountain
Push your limits on this rugged, no-trail ascent of Sunset Mountain through the wild beauty of Pinyon Wash. Expect steep climbs, loose rock, and spectacular desert views that make the effort worthwhile.
What to Expect:
- ~ 6-miles round trip with ~ 2000 ft of elevation gain
- Fully off-trail, requiring careful footing and route-finding
- Terrain includes boulders, steep slopes, loose rock, and desert vegetation (including plenty of cacti!)
- Stunning panoramic views from the summit
Who Should Attend:
- Experienced hikers comfortable with cross-country navigation and challenging terrain
- Adventurers seeking a remote, off-the-beaten-path desert experience
- Those eager for a strenuous workout and big Anza-Borrego views
REGISTER TODAY!
Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Time: 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Location: Meet at the ABF Store (587 Palm Canyon Dr. #110, Borrego Springs, CA 92004). We’ll then carpool/caravan to the trailhead – 4WD/AWD vehicles with clearance required.
Cost:
ABF Member: $38
Non-Member: $45
Student: $23
Cancellation Policy & Scholarships: Please see our FAQs page to read our cancellation policy and learn about scholarship options.
What Previous Attendees Are Saying:
“The ABF hikes are a perfect way to get to know our wonderful park even better. Mark and Sicco guide us to some wild and beautiful areas that I would never dream of going on my own. Their expert leadership and knowledge have opened up a whole new world within Anza Borrego.”
“I LOVED both leaders. [Sicco] was so knowledgeable, I would love to learn more from him. And Todd was so welcoming and did a great job socially, including everyone. I loved the hike choice and challenge. I will definitely be on another hike with the foundation soon!”
“An incredible rock scramble and climb at the end. I love how Sicco encouraged and motivated everyone. He is also fun and knows how to celebrate everyone’s accomplishments.”
Hike Leader:
Sicco Rood is the Facilities and Research Coordinator at the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center. In his free time, he enjoys hiking cross-country in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and photography.
Trail Rating System:
