Did you know that one of the most extensive mudstone cave areas in the world is located in our own backyard? Arroyo Tapiado is located in the southern half of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. It has dozens of fascinating caves and beautiful slot canyons that will keep us busy for the entire weekend. Many people visit Arroyo Tapiado and go no farther than 50 feet into a few caves. With our extensive experience in this area, you'll explore areas (safely!) that most visitors aren't even aware of.
Saturday morning, we'll caravan in and park our cars at a suitable campsite. Then we'll pull out our day packs and spend the day exploring a wide variety of caves, slots, and small gorges that will at times leave you feeling like you're on a different planet! After getting our fill of exploring for the day, we'll set up camp, light a fire and enjoy a fun potluck. Bring something small to share - cheese and crackers, chocolates, fruit, a beverage, use your imagination. We'll swap stories about what was your favorite experience of the day, have some laughs, and then go to bed ready for more adventure in the morning!
Sunday morning after breakfast, we'll have a tent tour, where you can learn from your fellow classmates what gear they find useful. We will then break camp, clear out of the campsite and head back to exploring caves and slot canyons until early afternoon!
Special Outing Requirements: High clearance vehicle is recommended, and MUST NOT BE AFRAID OF CONFINED, DARK SPACES
2 light sources, spare batteries for each-headlamp works best
Ability to crawl inside the caves (don’t do strenuous leg exercises 2 days prior to this trip - involves lots of squatting and crawling)
Clothing which can and will get dusty; you will want long pants probably gloves to protect your hands. (Note, if there was recent rain, certain areas outside may have patches of mud, but this is rare - it is generally very dry.)
A face mask to cover your mouth from dust particles
Water Requirements: Bring water (in vehicle) for weekend
Plan 2-3 liters per day in daypack plus another 1-2 for camp per day |