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Arroyo Seco del Diablo Trail
From Dirtopia, The Off-Road Encyclopedia
Arroyo Seco del Diablo, translated as Devil’s Dry Wash in Spanish, begins at Vallecito Wash Trail. This is also known as a one way trail as it ends in a steep drop near Fish Creek. It is the loose sand in this area that does not allow vehicles to turn back from this drop thereby giving it the strange name, Diablo Drop Off.
To reach this spot you take on the difficult route that runs along Vallecito Wash 1.1 miles west of the intersection with Canyon sin Nombre. Once in the Arroyo Seco del Diablo you come across numerous twists in this sandstone canyon leading to the wash. Look out for falling stones from the canyon walls and debris that you have to cross. This problem is more acute in windy conditions. Drive along for 6 miles and you come to the exit of the canyon and move closer to the Drop off.
Once there, you get some great views of the Vallecito Mountains and the Fish Creek. Nice place to camp in spite of there being no shade and having some harsh conditions.
There are two descents with a break in the middle at the Diablo Drop Off, the first has loose sandy terrain and is not too difficult to cross. The second is more challenging as it is narrow having large steps and plunges in to a small creek that leads to the Fish Creek.
Your 4WD should be driven at this point only by an experienced driver. You can park at a safe distance and move on foot to view. Afterwards you can drive down from Middle Mesa you can continue down the drop. Remember however to avoid this section in the rains as your vehicle can skid easily. Once down in the rocky creek you have to climb over some boulders to reach the Fish Creek-Sandstone Canyon Trail.
Maps and GPS Coordinates
Arroyo Seco del Diablo Trail Coordinates: 32.939000° -116.189333°
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