The Vortex

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Views

This 2.3-mile out and back will take you through swirling slickrock fields to a deep "Vortex" or sandstone bowl. This is a semi-popular route and you'll see people along the way, especially during peak seasons of visitation (spring and summer). The run is not super straighforward, however. You must navigate up and across a large slickrock field, trending southwest and eventually summiting the ridge on the west. Once at the summit, the swirling Vortex awaits! Views of the Pine Valley Mountain Range and surrounding valley make for beautiful trailside scenery and views the entire way.

Sometimes, the Vortex fills with water which makes for a unique, naturally occurring pool. Do not attempt to swim or wade into the vortex if there is water, this is extremely dangerous. The trail to the Vortex is moderately challenging and offers lots of areas to explore along the way. Also, please never write or carve/etch on the sandstone. Please leave the rock in its natural state.

Running is possible, but there are steep grades.

After leaving the parking lot, follow the trail and rock cairns down a steep hill composed of basalt lava rock. The well-defined trail tapers off once you reach the bottom of the hill and into a sandy wash, a few junipers provide shade.

After crossing the wash the trail disappears, but a series of cairns lead you southwest to a slickrock slab. Begin ascending the slickrock, following rock cairns and natural pools along the way. As you near the summit, the west ridgeline will be on your right. Nearing the summit, a light scramble will lead you to the top of the ridgeline where once on top you'll see the Vortex below and right.

Cairns mark the way haphazardly but are helpful in guiding you up to the actual Vortex site. The formation is of course a highlight, but the whole hike is worth it, even if you don't make it all the way to the Vortex bowl. Whenever you feel satisfied, turn around keep an eye out for the cairns that lead back the way you came.

Red tail hawks, turkey vultures, lizards, and snakes live here. Classic desert plants such as sage, prickly pear and yucca thrive in this area. Avoid stepping on any cryptobiotic soil.