Visit the stunning Domelands canyons and wind caves. This hike takes you to a less visited part.
At the parking, hike North up an old jeep trail.
Turn right into the first larger canyon on the right, going east.
After about 2500 feet, you end up at a canyon rather steep below.
There should be a trail on a mud hill, that leads easily into the canyon.
The canyon alone is worth the trip, really stunning.
There are only minor obstacles in the canyon wash.
Watch for the wind caves on the left (top) of the mountain.
Follow the canyon until you enter a short stretch of mud hills on the right (East).
Go up the small wash for a short while and take the mud hill ridge and follow it up to the end.
Wind cave rocks are suddenly visible, explore.
You can go back and make it a 4 hour return hike, or you can pick up the canyon below (North).
A nice canyon that crosses the shell layer, large blocks filled with Oyster shells are everywhere.
Eventually the wash meets the main canyon/wash, at this fork turn left (South/West).
Follow the canyon/wash back.
Warning:
The Carrizo Impact Area has been in use until 1959. it is an closed off of area with unexploded ordnance. Sometimes buried deep in the sand.
The hike is well outside the impact area.
On point "Fork", the most northern part of the hike you are within 4000 feet, as the crow flies (but the wash winds, so I expect an hour from the restricted area).
Make sure you don't head further North.
How to get here:
Take the road marked 093, close to mile: 57.2
The dirt road is good, you need a bit of ground clearance
Drive for about 2 miles.
Bring your ID along, you pass a border patrol checkpoint.