Join us for a captivating night hike through the South Fork Palm Wash in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll venture into the moonlit desert for a guided exploration of this unique landscape.
What to Expect:
-This out-and-back 3.5 mile hike will have 505 ft elevation gain and uneven terrain and will be led by a certified Wilderness First Responder
-The hike will descend into Palm Wash, passing a natural bridge and unique rock formations.
-WInding through sandstone corridors and open desert washes, this hike offers a unique opportunity to experience the desert's quieter side.
-With minimal light pollution, the area is also ideal for stargazing—keep an eye out for planets, constellations, and maybe even the Milky Way.
Who Should Attend:
-Curious Adventurers – Anyone interested in exploring unique desert landscapes under the stars.
Hikers – Individuals comfortable with a moderate trail, uneven footing, and light scrambling through a canyon
-Nature Enthusiasts – Those who enjoy learning about desert geology, and nocturnal wildlife.
-Amateur Astronomers & Stargazers – Thanks to low light pollution, this hike offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities.
-Locals & Visitors Alike – Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Anza-Borrego explorer, seeing the desert at night is a fresh perspective.
What to Bring:
-Headlamp or flashlight (red light recommended)
-Sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes
-Water (at least 2 liters per person)
-Snacks
-Optional: binoculars, camera, star chart, black light for scorpions
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Location: Meet in front of the ABF store at 587 Palm Canyon Dr. #110, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (located next to Calico’s). From there we will carpool/caravan to the trailhead.
Cost:
ABF Member: $25
Non-Member: $30
Student: $15
Cancellation Policy: This program is nonrefundable but is eligible for a one-time credit if canceled seven days in advance. Please see our FAQs page for more information.
Registration:
https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/registration-form/?formId=93980d51-3576-4f8a-939d-68f661b28a5b&envId=p-Of6JnJ-NDU-Ys4lsF7CG9w&zone=usa
What Past Participants Are Saying:
“Great guides. Fun and informative. It wasn't something i would have done on my own.”
“Well organized. Educated and educating guides.”
“I appreciated the opportunity to be outdoors and experience the desert in a different way via a night hike.”
“It was a perfect evening under the stars”
Hike Leader:
Matt McArdle is a certified California Naturalist and Wilderness First Responder. He has a B.S. in biology from UC San Diego and loves natural history, science, and exploring the outdoors. He first visited Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in 2009, and since then, has been lucky to spend many weekends exploring its trails. In his professional life, he’s worked as a science writer, a science educator, and in marketing communications for various technology-focused companies. He’s grateful to live in San Diego surrounded by so many incredible ecosystems, all within a short drive. He feels strongly about protecting our environment and the beautiful animals and plants that share it with us, especially as our world continues to change. In addition to volunteering at ABF, he also volunteers with the Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve on habitat restoration, and more recently the San Diego Tracking Team on wildlife monitoring.
You may also like the following events from Anza-Borrego Foundation:
- Next month, 10th September, 07:00 pm, Anza-Borrego’s Mountain Lions – Lessons Learned in Coexistence (Webinar) in Borrego Springs, California
- Next month, 20th September, 08:00 pm, Anza-Borrego Star Party: Blair Valley in Mount Laguna
- This October, 4th October, 06:30 pm, Night Hike: Mine Wash in Borrego Springs
Also check out other
Trips & Adventurous Activities in Borrego Springs,
Arts events in Borrego Springs,
Literary Art events in Borrego Springs.
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