Salaratus Draw

If you have been driving in the wide-open areas of Sunshine Trail Road or Main Street, going through this draw will provide a different view than you have already seen. A draw is a shallow, natural drainage with broad, gentle slopes that funnel water during storms and is typically more open than a canyon, but more defined than a flat desert.

Salaratus means aerated salt, so we can only surmise that at one point in time, ranchers and other inhabitants would come here for what is essentially baking soda.

The route can be driven in either direction and hugs and crisscrosses a wash with taller walls on each side. The wash crossings require a higher clearance vehicle and can change depending on the weather. Camping can be found in flat areas, but there are not many pre-disturbed sites available.

If you drive the trail in mid to late spring, you'll likely find the Fickeisen Plains Cactus flowering in the draw, which is both beautiful and endangered. Enjoy them if you find them, but please leave them be!