Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego

full-preview Icon
4.7/5 (42 reviews)
Ocotillo, California (San Diego County)
Last Updated: 03/21/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Camping Category Icon Camping
Desert Category Icon Desert
Iconic Category Icon Iconic
Overland Category Icon Overland
Sand Category Icon Sand
Wash Category Icon Wash

There is no other place like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Many overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts seek it out for its endless exploration opportunities. Fish Creek Wash is the starting point for many since it connects to many of Anza-Borrego's most famous offroad trails. Wind, rain, powerful earthquakes, landslides, and father time have shaped Fish Creek Wash into a living, geological museum. With its wind caves, dinosaur tracks, fault lines, towering mud hills, sandstone canyons, and wildflowers, Fish Creek is a perfect place to begin your exploration of the astonishing Anza-Borrego.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Fish Creek runs through a desert wash with a mix of soft sand with exposed and hidden rocks. Trail conditions can change drastically after any rain. This trail is simple to follow. But if the weather has concealed the typical traffic pattern, stay in the wider paths to regain the route. Starting at roughly 200 feet, the trail climbs to over 2,300 feet over 18-plus miles. Fish Creek connects to Diablo's Drop Off's exit, Loop Wash, Sandstone Canyon, Olla Wash, and Hapaha Flat.

No significant obstacles exist, but all-wheel or four-wheel drive is recommended due to the sand and air down your tires.

Trail Reviews

4.7/5 (43)
Open
Visited: 09/16/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Love this trail with a passion. I run it every time I go to the superstition mountain area. I ran this trail to waypoint 13 but went south on Diablo dropoff from there. Beautiful walls carved through the hills with some nice camping as well.
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Thomas Gasperlin
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Thomas Gasperlin
View More Images
User Avatar
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 06/26/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Harder

i love this trail it’s beautiful! decided to do a solo evening/night run (test out some new lights). i was short on time so i only did the first couple of miles but lots of fun and the canyon walls are really interesting to walk out and explore. at the time of writing this, there is less “deep sand” (again, i only went in about 30-45 min each way) so a 2WD high clearance shouldn’t have much issue (that’s me!) i aired down to approx ~26 psi. beautiful spot, great for pics!
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Tommy/Eric
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Tommy/Eric
View More Images
User Avatar
inline-aa Icon
400
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 03/26/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Beautiful area. We spent two days and 1 night camping. Entered Vallecito wash to Arroyo Tapiado to Diablo Drop, Fish Creek to Sandstone Canyon, Then out Fish Creek to Ocotillo. Rather than post a recent picture, as there are many pics and vids of the area these days.... I'm posting a picture of waypoint #6 from 1983. My CJ5 in the back with the fresh lift and Massive 33" Dick Cepek Fun Country tires
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Chris
User Avatar
inline-aa Icon
3000
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 03/22/2023

Such a cool area. Easy trail. There were more people here compared to any of the other trails we did this week. But being the middle of the week still not a lot of people. We drove this on our way to Sandstone Canyon.
User Avatar
Official Crew
inline-aa Icon
125300
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 03/21/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Fish Creek in Anza Borrego is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors to the park. This scenic canyon is located in the heart of the park and offers a unique outdoor experience that is perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. One of the coolest things about Fish Creek is the stunning geological formations that are on display. Visitors can explore towering sandstone cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and winding canyons that are millions of years old. These formations provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the park and offer a chance to see the raw power of natural forces at work. In addition to its geological wonders, Fish Creek is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Hikers can spot desert wildflowers, cacti, and palm trees as they traverse the rocky terrain. The canyon is also home to a variety of animals, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species. For those who are looking for an adventure, Fish Creek offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Visitors can hike through the canyon, scramble over boulders, and explore dry washes. The area is also popular among off-road enthusiasts, who enjoy exploring the rugged terrain in their 4x4 vehicles. Finally, one of the best things about Fish Creek is that it is a relatively quiet and secluded area of the park. Unlike some of the more popular hiking trails and tourist spots, Fish Creek offers a peaceful and tranquil experience that is perfect for those who want to get away from the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. In conclusion, Fish Creek is a unique and beautiful area of Anza Borrego that is well worth a visit. Whether you're a nature lover, hiker, or off-road enthusiast, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
Trail Review: Fish Creek Trail - Anza Borrego - Josh Noesser

From the Community

Start a free trial and get this level of detail on every trail guide
Start Free Trial